Whale Sanctuary Project Secures 20-Year Nova Scotia Lease Amid Opposition

An Arizona-based organization has taken a significant step toward establishing a seaside refuge for whales retired from marine parks, securing a 20-year lease for Crown land and coastal waters on Nova Scotia's Eastern Shore. The Whale Sanctuary Project announced the lease for Port Hilford Bay in Indian Harbour, a location intended to become North America's first seaside whale sanctuary and the world's first dedicated to captive orcas and beluga whales.

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This is a real momentous day for us. We’ve been working with the Department of Natural Resources that provides what is called the Crown lands lease for the water space for the sanctuary.

This major milestone follows a groundbreaking ceremony in June and a memorandum of understanding with the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Chiefs. Charles Vinick, CEO of the Whale Sanctuary Project, expressed his enthusiasm, calling it a "momentous day." The lease, which includes an option for a further 20-year renewal, covers 83 hectares of Crown land and coastal waters near Wine Harbour. Vinick stated the long-term lease is crucial for providing care for these animals into old age.

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We can renew the lease for an additional 20 years. So it really is 40 years. We’re looking at that because we want to be sure we have the time to care for some of these animals on into old age.

The sanctuary is designed to offer retired whales a natural ocean environment while ensuring they continue to receive human care and veterinary support. The proposed habitat will be significantly larger than the tanks typically used in marine parks. Vinick explained the project aims to provide a dignified life for whales as the marine-park industry evolves and more facilities close.

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There were government rules in place protecting Nova Scotia landowners and land rights, and they chose to make an exception for this. That’s when we thought, OK, we really need to speak out.

However, the project has encountered opposition from some local residents concerned about land-use changes and the potential impact on the area. Resident Tracy Burns-Gagnon voiced her concerns in June, stating that exceptions were made to existing government rules protecting landowners. Despite this opposition, Vinick affirmed the organization's commitment to ongoing dialogue and collaboration with all neighbors, including those who remain opposed to the sanctuary.

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We continue to want to work with all of the neighbours, even those who continue to be opposed.