Shelburne Canadian Heritage River 10-Year Monitoring Report

Shelburne Canadian Heritage River 10-year Monitoring Report

1997 - 2007

Prepared for the Canadian Heritage Rivers Board

May 2008

Painting by Alice Reed

Shelburne River - CHRS 10-year Monitoring Report Contents

1.0 Executive Summary...... 3 2.0 Introduction ...... 3 3.0 Background ...... 4 4.0 Methodology...... 4 5.0 Chronology of Events...... 5 6.0 Natural Heritage Values...... 7 6.1 Background...... 7 6.2 Condition of Natural Values Since Designation...... 13 7.0 Cultural Heritage Values...... 14 7.1 Background & Status...... 14 7.2 Condition of Cultural Values Since Designation ...... 19 8.0 Recreational Values...... 19 8.1 Background & Status...... 19 8.2 Condition of Recreation Values Since Designation ...... 25 9.0 Integrity Guidelines...... 25 10.0 Review of Management Plan Objectives...... 28 11.0 Summary and Conclusions...... 37 12.0 References ...... 38

Tables

Table 1 Shelburne River Natural Heritage Values...... 9 Table 2 Shelburne River Cultural Heritage Values ...... 15 Table 3 Shelburne River Recreational Values...... 20 Table 4 Shelburne River Integrity...... 26 Table 5 Shelburne River Management Plan Objectives...... 29

Shelburne River - CHRS 10-year Monitoring Report 1.0 Executive Summary Mersey Tobeatic Research Institute (MTRI) and the Southwest Nova Biosphere Reserve Association (SNBRA) have been active in the region, support- Nova Scotia’s Shelburne River was designated ing citizen-science and improved understanding as a Canadian Heritage River in 1997. This report and appreciation of protected areas. reviews what has happened over the last decade and addresses the state of the river, while looking Industry partners have met and exceeded objec- at progress and research. It examines what has tives set out in the Shelburne River management happened to the river since designation, deter- plan, and have sponsored important research on mine whether heritage and recreational values are the natural and cultural values of the river and its still intact, and reports on the Canadian Heritage surrounding region. River System (CHRS) integrity guidelines. The study also reports on the degree to which river manage- Inter-agency partnership remains strong. Kejim- ment and other goals have been achieved. kujik National Park and Historic Site, Nova Scotia Environment, and Nova Scotia Natural Resources Although the Shelburne is a remote wilderness have worked with several academics on research river, many significant events have occurred in and monitoring topics relevant to the river and its the area since designation. In particular, Tobeatic watershed. These research projects focussed on Wilderness Area was officially designated, offering topics such as: lichens, Species at Risk, the effects legal protection for the upper and middle reaches of dams and forestry practices. of the Shelburne River. The designation is complementary to existing protection within Kejimkujik Overall, the heritage and recreation values of National Park and National Historic Site of Canada. the Shelburne River remain intact. Only positive changes have taken place on the river. The river is Perhaps the most important recent occurrence is worthy of continued designation as a nationally the acquisition of 1636 hectares of land with high significant river within the CHRS. conservation value that will be designated as the Shelburne River Wilderness Area (see Fig 5.1). This new wilderness area will provide protection 2.0 Introduction to the lower section of the river corridor while securing rare species’ habitat, unique natural features and opportunities for wilderness recreation. The wilderness area was envisioned when the Province of Nova Scotia purchased 10 050 hectares of land from Bowater Mersey Paper Company Limited in March 2007.

As a result of the acquisition, nearly the entire river corridor now lies within land owned by the Prov- ince of Nova Scotia and Nova Scotia Power. With about 5% of the river corridor at the river mouth owned by Nova Scotia Power.

AbitibiBowater remains an active conservation partner for the Heritage River, and will continue to From the wild headwaters at Buckshot Lake, to fulfill research and management objectives set out the outflow at Lake Rossignol, the Shelburne River in the Shelburne River Management Plan. connects the major waterways of southwestern A great deal of collaborative research has taken Nova Scotia in a series of rapids, still waters, lakes place over the years since designation. and streams. Nova Scotia’s most remote wilder- New community-based partners, notably the ness river, it flows 53 km from the granite barrens and patchy old forest in its upper reaches, through Shelburne River - CHRS 10-year Monitoring Report quartzite plains with gently rising eskers, and report on progress or setbacks the river has outwash plains supporting old growth pine and experienced. hemlock forests in the lower watershed. Aside from wild, unspoiled beauty there are also outstanding wilderness recreation experiences on the 3.0 Background Shelburne River; these include: canoeing, camping, and hiking opportunities. In 1997, after years The Shelburne River flows northerly to Pine Lake of study, the Shelburne River was designated as a and then easterly to Lake Rossignol in the central Canadian Heritage River. area of Southwestern Nova Scotia, south of Kejim- kujik National Park and Historic Site. The river starts The Canadian Heritage River System (CHRS) is at Buckshot Lake and flows 53 km along a series Canada’s program by which to promote freshwa- of seven lakes to Lake Rossignol. The heritage river corridor is limited to the width of the waterway.

In 1986, the Province of Nova Scotia reviewed 45 rivers and conducted detailed studies on the seven highest rated rivers. In 1988, a study of the Shelburne River was completed and a year later the Minister announced that the Department of Natural Resources would work toward nomination of the river. In January 1993, the Shelburne River was accepted for nomination as a CHRS river. The Shelburne Canadian Heritage River Management Plan was submitted to CHRS in 1996 and in 1997 the river was designated as a Canadian Heritage River.

In 1998, lead responsibility for the CHRS program ter heritage conservation and recognize Canada’s in Nova Scotia was transferred to the Protected outstanding rivers based on heritage and recre- Areas Branch of Nova Scotia Department of the ation values. The program is a cooperative effort Environment from the NS Department of Natural of federal and provincial/territorial governments, Resources. After the transfer, DNR Regional Servic- which works to ensure long-term management es Division continued as a key partner in program and conservation of Canada’s river heritage. CHRS delivery. Many of the objectives laid out in the requires annual reports, monitoring, and ten-year management plan were implemented jointly, or reviews to ensure that CHRS rivers maintain the with several partners. values for which they were nominated. 4.0 Methodology The objectives of this report are to: • determine the degree to which the actions The main approaches used to gain information outlined in the management plan have been about the state of the river and progress that has implemented; been made are: • establish the current condition of the outstanding heritage values based on a review of (i) review of annual reports submitted values for which the river was nominated; to the CHRS Board and field surveys • determine whether the CHRS integrity guide- (ii) secondary source research lines are still being met; (iii) interviews with key individuals • describe changes that have occurred in relation to the river over the past decade; and Interviews with key individuals provided ample in- • review the state of the river and to formation on changes, research and activities that

Shelburne River - CHRS 10-year Monitoring Report have taken place on and around the river since its priority field management initiatives with the designation. Discussions took place among Nova Department of Natural Resources. Scotia Environment staff, key stakeholders and • Kejimkujik designated as a National Historic Mersey Tobeatic Research Institute and Southwest Site recognizing it as a Mi’kmaw Cultural Land- Nova Biosphere researchers. scape. • Southwest Nova Biosphere Reserve (which New CHRS frameworks were developed since the includes the Shelburne Canadian Heritage Shelburne River was nominated. This report con- River) nomination document submitted to verts identified values to coincide with current United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cul- national frameworks. The recreational framework tural Organization (UNESCO) for consideration, used was adapted from the Red River CHRS study. and subsequently designated. The condition of heritage values since designa- • A new hydrometric sampling station installed tion was discussed along with relevant projects or on the Shelburne River; planning underway for management plan actions. The condition of integ- community-based water-quality monitoring rity guidelines was also examined to determine • Scoping exercise to begin a management plan- whether the river was still worthy of designation ning process for Tobeatic Wilderness Area. as a river of national significance within the Cana- 2001-2002 dian Heritage River System.

5.0 Chronology of Events

1997 • Shelburne River officially designated as a Heritage River within the CHRS.

1998 • Responsibility for the CHRS program in Nova Scotia transferred to Nova Scotia Department of Environment from Nova Scotia Natural Resources. • Kejimkujik initiates planning to review its • Tobeatic Wilderness Area officially designated management plan. under the Wilderness Areas Protection Act. • Southwest Nova Biosphere Reserve under goes review and receives endorsement from 1999 - 2000 key partners including the Province of Nova • Appointment of a regional protected areas Scotia, Parks Canada and 5 county municipali- coordinator with responsibility for CHRS ties. rivers in western Nova Scotia. • New hydrometric sampling station installed • Proposal for Southwest Nova Biosphere Re- with plans for a community-based water qual- serve initiated by a local community Associa- ity monitoring program. tion. • Tobeatic Wilderness Area Management Plan- • Initiation of water quality monitoring for the ning Exercise launched with broad citizen Shelburne River, led by NS Environment advisory group. and Labour and Environment Canada. 2002-2003 2000-2001 • The Kejimkujik Management Plan process • Publication of Keep It Wild, a guide for low- continues, led by Parks Canada planners and impact recreation in Wilderness Areas that senior staff members of the national park. follows the principles of Leave No Trace Several broad stakeholder meetings were • Implementation of an access signage program completed on a range of topic areas. Following for Wilderness Areas and identification of these discussions, a draft management plan Shelburne River - CHRS 10-year Monitoring Report was developed for public comment. • Tobeatic Wilderness Area Management Plan- ning exercise begins with the first phase of public consultation meetings of the advisory group.

2003-2004 • Wilderness Area management: planning exercise for Tobeatic Wilderness Area continues with second phase of advisory group work • Collaboration with Kejimkujik to redesign the Back Country Guide and Map • Recognition of moose as an endangered species in Nova Scotia. • Southwest Nova Biosphere Reserve’s official designation ceremony.

2004-2005 • Approval of the Tobeatic Wilderness Area • Tobeatic Wilderness Area Management Plan- Management Plan. ning Exercise continues with release of Draft • Development of The Tent Dwellers heritage ca- Management Plan for Tobeatic Wilderness noe route project with Heritage River partners. Area and conclusion of advisory group tasks. • Mersey Tobeatic Research Institute field station • Publication of Into the Tobeatic - a guide for continues work on the Parks Canada Innova- planning wilderness travel . tion Project entitled, “Collaborative research, • Mersey Tobeatic Research Institute (MTRI) es- management, and monitoring of aquatic tablished to facilitate research and monitoring health and landscape connectivity in the activity. Southwest Nova Biosphere Reserve”. • Publication of Paddling the Tobeatic: Canoe • Amendments to the Special Places Protec- Routes of Southwestern Nova Scotia by Nimbus tion Act streamline the process used in the Publishing; the book includes the Shelburne identification and designation of significant Canadian Heritage River. ecological sites on private and crown lands. • MTRI receives charitable status and purchases 2005-2006 a field station for 6 full-time staff, with match- ing funds from three Heritage River partners (Bowater, Kejimkujik, NSE) • MTRI research on: Eastern pipistrelle bat distribution; lichens in old growth forests; ecological effects of forest roads; forest ecosystem classification; ecology and management of the pale-winged gray moth; invertebrates as indicators of bog health; and the effects of dams on wetland species at risk.

2006-2007 • Extensive field work on the Shelburne River with MTRI focussing on the water quality of headwater lakes. • DNR research on Jack Pine budworm defolia- tion of old growth pine. • First annual Rivers Day celebration on Sand

Shelburne River - CHRS 10-year Monitoring Report Lake includes a public guided outing tains some of the oldest old growth trees • Extensive field evaluation of Bowater lands in Nova Scotia (They were the oldest known at on the Shelburne River. time of designation, but older trees have since • Acquisition of Bowater land, which will be been found south of the watershed). designated as the Shelburne River Wilderness Area in 2008. The Shelburne River was noted for its outstanding • Planning and development of The Tent Dwell- wilderness canoeing opportunities, including the ers Centennial Festival with several commu- most remote wilderness tripping opportunity in nity, municipal and agency partners. Friends Nova Scotia. It offers a variety of canoeing experi- of Keji as the host organization for the project ences and connects to other major routes as well to commemorate the 1908 publication of the as Kejimkujik National Park. book featuring the Shelburne River. A new national framework for natural heritage values has been developed since the Shelburne River 6.0 Natural Heritage Values was designated in 1997:

6.1 Background • A Framework for the Natural Values of Ca- nadian Heritage Rivers, 2nd Edition. 2001 The designation of the Shelburne River was based on the following key natural heritage features: The values for which the Shelburne River was nominated are summarized in the following table, • outstanding examples of undisturbed glacial according to this new natural heritage values landforms, such as eskers and outwash plains, framework. The table also outlines significant ac- and granite barrens tions over the last ten years, and any changes to • high quality pine and hemlock stands, nomination values. including the Shelburne IBP site which con-

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Shelburne River - CHRS 10-year Monitoring Report - - Changes or Threats to Nomina to Threats Changes or Value(s) tion None None quality on the monitoring Water but the coor has improved, river requires dination of information further work None None None None None None - Significant Actions, Research or Research Actions, Significant Studies quality has monitoring Water 2000 when a taken since place sampling sta new hydrometric installed tion was of completion NSE encouraging historic database for a central values parameter and future - - - - Shelburne River Natural Heri Natural River Shelburne Descriptiontage Elements stream Basin; Ocean Atlantic is actuallynumber 2 (the river a tributary of the Mersey River, Lakethrough Rossignol) is April; of highest flow Period is May-Sep flow period of lowest tember sediment load >400mg/l Heavy Dis Total in low rated (>20.0 JU); Solids (0-50 mg/l) solved point at lowest volume Flow or of nomination - small river is 85km. Length <85m3/sec. Uplands Appalachian Acadian Glacial transport con featuring spicuous eskers Impervious with surficial bedrock of low materials unconsolidated thin soils and barrens porosity: (1-2m/km). gradient Moderate is 0-400m. sea level Height above - narrow Rounded interfluves floodplain CHRS Natural Framework Framework CHRS Natural & Sub-themes Themes (2001) 1 Hydrology Basins 1.1 Drainage Variation 1.2 Seasonal Content Water 1.3 1.4 River Size 2 Physiography Regions 2.1 Physiographic 2.2 Geological Processes 2.3 Hydrogeology Topography 2.4 Morphology 3 River Types Valley 3.1 Table 1 Shelburne River Natural Heritage Values Heritage Natural River 1 Shelburne Table Shelburne River - CHRS 10-year Monitoring Report - - - - Changes or Threats to Nomina to Threats Changes or Value(s) tion None None None and stew awareness Improved and cul of the natural ardship heritage components. tural research, Capacity-building for and com education, monitoring, munity-leadership. efforts. research Coordinated efforts, research Coordinated and stewardship. monitoring ability designate to Improved lands. adjacent ------Significant Actions, Research or Research Actions, Significant Studies as in invertebrates on: Research effects of of bog health; dicators species at risk; dams on wetland effects of forest and ecological roads Biosphere Nova Southwest Reserve officially desig Project in 2000 nated Canada MTRI working with Parks Integrity Inno on the Ecological which examines Project, vation aquatic health and landscape connectivity Biosphere Nova Southwest Reserve officially desig Project in 2000 nated the Special Amendments to Act streamline Protection Places used in the identifi the process cation and designation of signifi on private sites cant ecological land and Crown - Shelburne River Natural Heri Natural River Shelburne Descriptiontage Elements Lake chain and riffle Pool Mild braiding lakes; eutrophic Lake systems: bogs and fens systems: wetland Maritime Atlantic Ecozone: CHRS Natural Framework Framework CHRS Natural & Sub-themes Themes (2001) Types 3.2 Channel 3.3 Channel Profile Landforms 3.4 Fluvial 4 Biotic Environments Ecosystems 4.1 Aquatic Ecosystems Terrestrial 4.2

10 Shelburne River - CHRS 10-year Monitoring Report - - Changes or Threats to Nomina to Threats Changes or Value(s) tion efforts, research Coordinated and stewardship. monitoring efforts. research Improved efforts. research Improved efforts. research Improved efforts research Improved ecosystem a proactive through pro management and outreach gram - - - - - is nation Significant Actions, Research or Research Actions, Significant Studies effects ecological on: Research ecosystem forest roads; of forest and and ecology classification; management of the pale-winged moth gray lichens in old on: Research effects ecological forests; growth ecosystem forest roads; of forest and man ecology classification; agement of the pale-winged as and invertebrates moth; gray of bog health indicators areolata Woodwardia species only exists ally imperiled, it is imperiled in NS where Applied Geomatics Canada, Parks Sci and Natural Group research and Engineering Research ences on research of Canada Council at Beaverskin Flora Plain Coastal Lakes. and Pebbleloggitch mainland moose on: Research pip Eastern (Species at Risk); as in invertebrates bats; istrelle effects of of bog health; dicators Species at Risk; dams on wetland of management and ecology and moth pale-winged gray - - (Netted (Netted Shelburne River Natural Heri Natural River Shelburne Descriptiontage Elements in float plants: Aquatic/Riparian dynamic Trees: fens; and bogs ing hemlock old growth areolata Woodwardia chain fern) Flora Plain Coastal Atlantic Mainland moose and Eastern bats pipistrelle - - CHRS Natural Framework Framework CHRS Natural & Sub-themes Themes (2001) Vegetation 5 Communi Plant 5.1 Significant ties 5.2 Rare Species Plant 6 Fauna Popula 6.1 Significant Animal tions

Shelburne River - CHRS 10-year Monitoring Report 11 - - Changes or Threats to Nomina to Threats Changes or Value(s) tion efforts. research Improved ecosys a proactive by Improved management and outreach tem program protection of species Improved in watershed - Significant Actions, Research or Research Actions, Significant Studies mainland moose on: Research (Species at Risk) and the effects Species at of dams on wetland Risk. listing of formal by Recognition, Mainland Moose as an endan in Scotia species in Nova gered 2003-2004 - Shelburne River Natural Heri Natural River Shelburne Descriptiontage Elements Mainland moose CHRS Natural Framework Framework CHRS Natural & Sub-themes Themes (2001) 6.2 Rare Animal Species

12 Shelburne River - CHRS 10-year Monitoring Report 6.2 Condition of Natural Values Since Designation

Water quality monitoring began on the Shelburne River in 2000 when a new hydrometric sampling station was installed. The River is now part of Nova Scotia’s Auto- mated Water Quality Monitoring Program, but work needs to be done in terms of coordination of information.

These efforts, combined with Mersey Tobeatic Research Initiative and academic research efforts, have improved the quantity of data collected with regards to the river and watershed ecosystems and significant species. The Southwest Nova Biosphere Reserve Project (SWNBRP) and MTRI work has increased capacity for research, monitoring and educational efforts along with aug- menting opportunities for community leadership.

Through collaborative efforts and coordinated research, particularly through the Mersey Tobeatic Research Institute, there is increased awareness and stewardship of the natural and cultural heritage components of the Shelburne River. Also, amendments to the Special Places Protection Act streamline the process used in the identification and designation of significant ecological sites on private and crown lands.

Some MTRI projects occurred outside of the heritage river corridor, but did take place on lakes that flow into the Shelburne River. Songbird Detectability During Point Counts (Beaverskin Lake); The Kejim- kujik-Mersey Loon Watch Program (Beaverskin Lake, Back Lake, and Lower Silver Lake); and Assessment of Coastal Plain Flora (Beaverskin Lake).

Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources research identified hemlock stands at Irving Lake, Sand Lake and at the mouth of the river; no damage by pale- winged gray moths was indicated along the Shelburne River. Research did show, however, an outbreak of Jack Pine Budworm to the east of Pine Lake, which affects mature and old growth pine stands.

Many of the actions that have occurred along the Shel- burne River have led to improved protection of species within the watershed. The collaborative work of the MTRI and the SWNBRP, along with the official designation of Tobeatic Wilderness Area and the announcement pro- posed designation of the Shelburne River Wilderness Area, has led to proactive ecosystem management and outreach programs, which often, in turn, lead to improved natural heritage values.

Shelburne River - CHRS 10-year Monitoring Report 13 7.0 Cultural Heritage Values

7.1 Background & Status

A new national framework for cultural heritage values has been developed since the Shelburne River was designated in 1997:

• A Cultural Framework for Canadian Heritage Rivers, 2nd Edition. 2000

The Shelburne River was not nominated based on cultural heritage values due to insufficient information at the time of nomination. Historical context was provided in the nomination document. A variety of cultural values are summarized in the following table, according to the new cultural heritage values framework developed for the CHRS. The table also outlines significant actions over the last ten years, and any changes to cultural heritage values.

14 Shelburne River - CHRS 10-year Monitoring Report - - - - Changes or Threats to Nomina to Threats Changes or Value(s) tion knowledge of pre-con Improved tact use of the river. knowledge of Aborigi Improved nal use of the area. None knowledge of dam Improved locations with and dam remnant knowledge con for potential their impact cerning of wetland Species at Risk. ------Significant Actions, Research or Research Actions, Significant Studies Mi’kmaq Rightsre Initiative Mi’kmaq on traditional search archaeo potential use located logical sites during the of water down A draw Dam Refur Power Scotia Nova the dis led to bishment Project of Aboriginal of hundreds covery artifacts the Shelburne where Lake into Rossignol. River flows Bowater Canada, Parks MTRI, At NSEL, Company, MerseyPaper Global Change for lantic Center Acadia Research, and Ecosystems Re and School for University Stud and Environmental source worked University) (Dalhousie ies dams and locate to together (such as flumes dam remnants logs) moving used for that were and to Watershed in the Mersey the effects of dams on determine the distribution of certain wet land species at risk. - - - Shelburne River Cultural Heri Cultural River Shelburne Value(s) tage identified sites Archaeological suggest fishing at mouth of river 5000 years use at least 3000 to also used for was river The ago. fishing in the 1800 and 1900s. sug evidence Archaeological at gests hunting on the river ago least 3000-5000 years had Company Mersey Paper The near the Shelburne a sawmill River in 1940. Company Mersey Paper The trans for used the river probably portation purposes - CHRS Cultural Framework Framework CHRS Cultural (2000) Harvesting 1 Resource 1.1 Fishing Harvest Resource 1.2 Shoreline ing Water 1.3 Extraction of Transport Water 2 Transportation 2.1 Commercial Table 2 Shelburne River Cultural Heritage Values Values Heritage Cultural River 2 Shelburne Table Shelburne River - CHRS 10-year Monitoring Report 15 - - - Changes or Threats to Nomina to Threats Changes or Value(s) tion None None heritage ef cultural Improved activitiesforts in and interpretive the region knowledge of Aborigi Improved nal use of the area. Mi’kmaq of traditional Inventory use sites the heritage to Improvements of and promotion concept route the river ------canoe route is canoe route Significant Actions, Research or Research Actions, Significant Studies Not applicable travelled Albert Paine Bigelow the trip is de in 1908; the area Tent “The tailed in his book followed have many Dwellers;” in the last 100 years. his route (exclud Kejimkujik National Park ing Seaside Adjunct) designated of Site as a National Historic as a Mi’kmawCanada cultural landscape in 2000 during the of water down A draw Dam Refur Power Scotia Nova the dis led to bishment Project of Aboriginal of hundreds covery artifacts the Shelburne where Lake into Rossignol. River flows Mi’kmaq RightsRe Initiative use sites traditional into search Mi’kmaq RightsRe Initiative use sites traditional into search Dwellers Tent The and promoted being developed ------by Albert by The Tent Dwellers Tent The Shelburne River Cultural Heri Cultural River Shelburne Value(s) tage Not discussed at time of nomina tion Not discussed at time of nomina tion likely had natives Pre-contact settlements on the river evidence is archaeological There at the that suggests a village site mouth river’s Not discussed at time of nomina tion Not discussed at time of nomina tion Not discussed at time of nomina tion the Shelburne River Canoeing in the 1908 popularized was book Paine Bigelow - CHRS Cultural Framework Framework CHRS Cultural (2000) Services Transportation 2.2 & Surveying2.3 Exploration 3 Riparian Settlement 3.1 Siting of Dwellings 3.2 River-based Communities Transporta 3.3 River-influenced tion & Recreation 4 Culture 4.1 Spiritual Associations Expression 4.2 Cultural 4.3 Early Recreation 5 Jurisdictional Uses

16 Shelburne River - CHRS 10-year Monitoring Report - Changes or Threats to Nomina to Threats Changes or Value(s) tion no changes knowledge of dam Improved locations and their effects on Species at Risk.wetland ------Significant Actions, Research or Research Actions, Significant Studies Bowater Canada, Parks MTRI, At NSEL, Company, MerseyPaper Global Change for lantic Center Acadia Research, and Ecosystems Re and School for University Stud and Environmental source ies (Dalhousie University) dams locate to together worked as and dam remnants(such for mov used were flumes that Water ing logs) in the Mersey the ef determine shed and to fects of dams on the distribution of certain species at risk. wetland - - - Shelburne River Cultural Heri Cultural River Shelburne Value(s) tage Not discussed at time of nomina tion is transboundary river The Queens and Digby between It the boundary forms counties. Kejimkujik National between Tobeatic and Site & Historic Park also river The Wilderness Area. serves as the northern boundary Management Wildlife Tobeatic of Area. portion links the lower river The the to Valley of the Annapolis is of the province, South Shore links historic one of at least two and serves as a hub of an inland of the Bay passage between Ocean and the Atlantic Fundy Not discussed at time of nomina tion of lakes remnants The contain structures, dams and associated their to naturalized which have environments - CHRS Cultural Framework Framework CHRS Cultural (2000) 5.1 Conflict & MilitaryAssocia tions 5.2 Boundaries Regulation 5.3 Environmental

Shelburne River - CHRS 10-year Monitoring Report 17 - Changes or Threats to Nomina to Threats Changes or Value(s) tion - Significant Actions, Research or Research Actions, Significant Studies A portion of the Mersey water shed has been managed as a Wildlife a sanctuary 1927, since 1968 Management since Area since Wilderness Area and as 1998. - Shelburne River Cultural Heri Cultural River Shelburne Value(s) tage CHRS Cultural Framework Framework CHRS Cultural (2000)

18 Shelburne River - CHRS 10-year Monitoring Report 7.2 Condition of Cultural Values Since Designation

Kejimkujik National Park was designated a Cana- dian National Historic Site as a Mi’kmaw cultural landscape in 2000, which has led to improved cultural heritage protection and interpretive efforts in the region. For example, a new publication features the Aboriginal heritage in southwestern Nova Scotia, on-site learning programs are offered by Mi’kmaq interpreters, and sites of significance such as the petroglyphs found within the national park are routinely patrolled.

The Mi’kmaq Rights Initiative conducted research on traditional use sites within southwestern Nova Scotia at the request of Nova Scotia Environment and the Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources. The research led to improved knowledge of pre- contact use of the river and an inventory of Mi’kmaq traditional use sites. This data complements existing information concerning sites near Sand Lake and Lake Rossignol to give a broader perspective of aboriginal land and water use 3500 to 500 years ago.

Mersey Tobeatic Research Institute research into the effects of dams on wetland Species at Risk has led to improved knowledge of dam and dam remnant locations while offering significant potential for knowledge concerning their impact of wetland Species at Risk.

Nova Scotia Environment and its government and community partners are celebrating the 100th anniversary of the publishing of The Tent Dwellers, by Albert Bigelow Paine . This celebration will focus on the The Tent Dwellers heritage canoe route, and will include interpretation materials and related community events; all of which will increase local and visitor knowledge of the heritage river and its values.

8.0 Recreational Values

8.1 Background & Status

Because there is no national framework for recreational values, the activities listed in the Red River Back- ground Study were adapted for use in this section. • (Canadian Heritage River System: Red River Back- ground Study, 1998)

The values for which the Shelburne River was nominated are summarized in the following table, according to this recreational values framework. The table also outlines significant actions over the last ten years, and any changes to those values.

Shelburne River - CHRS 10-year Monitoring Report 19 - - Changes or Threats Threats Changes or Nomination to Value(s) None awareness Increased which may of river, rec increased lead to and inter reational use pretive None public Improved knowledge and clear policy. None None None None None canoe Description of Current Description of Current Situation Dwellers Tent The is being developed route and promoted

guide Significant Actions, Actions, Significant or Studies Research Tobeatic Into the NSEL published by Tobeatic the Paddling Smith Andrew book by published Management Tobeatic motor plan prohibits boat and float plane Tobeatic use within Wilderness Area. - - Original Shelburne River River Original Shelburne Capability Recreational Rating canoeing op Whitewater portunities exist canoeing Non-motorized in the main means of river travel not possible trips are Day remote the river’s due to ness motorized Not permitted, for only allowed boats are research/management purposes Not applicable Not applicable Shelburne River is not The a fishing destination Shelburne River is not The a fishing destination Shelburne River is not The a fishing destination - Recreational Capability Themes Themes Capability Recreational from & Sub-themes (adapted CHRS Background Red River Study) 1 Boating kayak & canoe, Whitewater 1.1 raft Tripping 1.2 Extended Canoe & non-motor) (motor (from paddling & rowing 1.3 Day urban center) 1.4 High-speed Boating cruising/ pleasure 1.5 Motorized houseboats tourboats 1.6 Commercial 2 Angling urban angling (from 2.1 Day center) ur angling (from Weekend 2.2 ban center) 2.3 Extended angling vacation Table 3 Shelburne River Recreational Values Recreational River 3 Shelburne Table 20 Shelburne River - CHRS 10-year Monitoring Report - - - Changes or Threats Threats Changes or Nomination to Value(s) None None None None None manage Improved ment direction. manage Improved ment direction. public in Improved support to formation and management. existing use. - - Description of Current Description of Current Situation quality iis sutable Water swimming. for not applicable not applicable conduct to Commitment a study for feasibility hikinglong-distance trail corridor the river through tent designate to Plans along the lower ing sites Shelburne River at Sand, Tobe and Tupper Little atic Lakes sites tenting 20 informal identified on maps were book Smith’s in Andrew Tobeatic the Paddling camps along with three (one of which is Pollards Ranger Camp) Falls - - - Significant Actions, Actions, Significant or Studies Research Hiking rec potential Tobeatic in ognized ManWilderness Area agement Plan Tobeatic in Recognized ManWilderness Area agement Plan Original Shelburne River River Original Shelburne Capability Recreational Rating Shelburne River is not The a fishing destination Shelburne River is not The a fishing destination population of Limited trout brook Not discussed at time of nomination Not discussed at time of nomination Not discussed at time of nomination Not discussed at time of some people designation; for use old logging roads these activities capability Low Recreational Capability Themes Themes Capability Recreational from & Sub-themes (adapted CHRS Background Red River Study) fishing 2.4 Fly fishing 2.5 Ice 2.6 Specific fish species Content Water 3 3.1 Swimming skiing Water 3.2 3.3 Snorkel/scuba Activities Associated Water 4 walking, use (hiking, Trail 4.1 cycling) 4.2 Camping

Shelburne River - CHRS 10-year Monitoring Report 21 - - Changes or Threats Threats Changes or Nomination to Value(s) opportunityReduced habituation of for bear and deer. impactsReduced as with vehicle sociated use. public in Improved and policyformation clarification. None None - - Description of Current Description of Current Situation use restricted for Vehicle hunting or other recre ational uses Baiting of animals for hunting is prohibited Wilder Tobeatic within ness Area permitted not use Vehicle Wilderness Area in from use the area People Lake Pebbleloggitch cabin) along the (Mason’s Shelburne River - Significant Actions, Actions, Significant or Studies Research Tobeatic of Completion ManWilderness Area agement Plan Wilderness Tobeatic ManagementArea Plan Section 4.2.5) - - - Original Shelburne River River Original Shelburne Capability Recreational Rating in the Not permitted 6 to limited National Park; Wild hunt in primitive day Management Area life Not discussed at time of not appli nomination; cable Not discussed at time of nomination Not discussed at time of not appli nomination; cable Recreational Capability Themes Themes Capability Recreational from & Sub-themes (adapted CHRS Background Red River Study) 4.3 Hunting Activities Winter 5 sledding 5.1 Snowmobiling/dog 5.2 Cross-country skiing use (day urban center) 5.3 Skating (urban center)

22 Shelburne River - CHRS 10-year Monitoring Report - - Changes or Threats Threats Changes or Nomination to Value(s) outreach, Improved and interpretation, public and stakehold er education. Improved Budworm Jack Pine has impactoutbreak ed pine stands Description of Current Description of Current Situation of representation Greater stands old forest - - Significant Actions, Actions, Significant or Studies Research Regional Protected ManagementAreas planning designate to Intent Wilder Shelburne River ness Area Tent of Development route Dwellers New wilderness travel planning guides & the implementation of the Wild Program Keep It Bio Nova Southwest Reservesphere Project of and development MTRI of land Acquisition secures Bowater from additional high quality sites forest old growth DNR study indicates of Jack Pine outbreak affecting Budworm and old growth mature Lakepine near Pine Original Shelburne River River Original Shelburne Capability Recreational Rating 42 km (79%) of the river has outstanding corridor it is wilderness attributes; most remote Scotia’s Nova wilderness river hemlock and Old growth excellent pine stands; examples of extensive and semi-barrens barrens been subject to that have burns repeated Recreational Capability Themes Themes Capability Recreational from & Sub-themes (adapted CHRS Background Red River Study) Heritage Appreciation 6 Natural Wildlife 6.1 Vegetation 6.2

Shelburne River - CHRS 10-year Monitoring Report 23 - Changes or Threats Threats Changes or Nomination to Value(s) Improved None informa Improved future tion base for work. Improved Improved Improved - - The Tent Tent The canoe route Description of Current Description of Current Situation vistas also associ Scenic with islands in Sand ated which and Irving Lakes, land Crown are events Annual Rivers Day will take on Shel place burne River being Activities are the around developed of promotion Dwellers - Significant Actions, Actions, Significant or Studies Research of land Acquisition secures Bowater from additional vistas and landscapes scenic Kejimkujik National has been desig Park as a National nated of Canada Site Historic as a Mi’kmaw cultural landscape - Original Shelburne River River Original Shelburne Capability Recreational Rating bogs Undisturbed barrens, Panoramic and forests. with associated are scenes eskers the river’s Outstanding examples of undisturbed eskers and and significant erratics plains outwash archaeological Pre-contact exist at the mouth of sites the river Not discussed at time of nomination Not discussed at time of not appli nomination; cable Not discussed at time of nomination Recreational Capability Themes Themes Capability Recreational from & Sub-themes (adapted CHRS Background Red River Study) Vistas/scenic quality 6.3 6.4 Geological features/water features 7 Human Heritage Appreciation Sites 7.1 Historic Landscapes 7.2 Cultural 7.3 Sporting Events/Activities events/activities 7.4 Cultural

24 Shelburne River - CHRS 10-year Monitoring Report 8.2 Condition of Recreation Values Since Designation

There has been increased awareness of the river due to the development and promotion of the Tent Dwellers route. Paddling the Tobeatic: Canoe Routes of Southwestern Nova Scotia describes various ways to travel along the Shelburne River and may make the routes better known. This increased awareness will probably mean greater recreational use of the river and increased interpretive opportunities. There are plans to develop tenting sites along the lower Shelburne and Sand, Tupper and Tobeatic Lakes. Annual Rivers Day events are planned for the Shel- burne River.

Natural heritage appreciation values have been improved since designated through: regional protected areas management planning; the designation of the river as a candidate wilderness area; the development and promotion of the Tent Dwellers canoe route, popularized in 1908; new wilderness travel planning guides; implementation of the Keep It Wild program and the emergence of the Mersey Tobeatic Research Institute and the Southwest Nova Biosphere Reserve project.

A number of the recreational capability themes and sub-themes have been supported through priority actions in the management framework of the Tobeatic Wilderness Area Management Plan.

Natural heritage appreciation opportunities have been improved through the acquisition of land from AbitibiBowater, which secured additional high quality old growth forest sites, vistas and scenic landscapes. The acquisition means greater representation of old forest stands and additional scenic vistas associated with islands in Sand and Irving Lakes, which are Crown land.

9.0 Integrity Guidelines

Natural, Cultural and Recreational integrity guidelines were all considered when the Shelburne River was nominated to the CHRS. However, only natural and recreational guidelines apply as the river was not nominated for its human heritage value.

Table 4 summarizes the condition of the Shelburne River’s integrity since designation. The integrity guidelines in this table are based on the Canadian Heritage Rivers System Principles, Procedures and Op- erational Guidelines from 2001. The table also discusses improvements, threats and changes to integrity.

Shelburne River - CHRS 10-year Monitoring Report 25 - - - - Changes or Threats to River Integrity River to Threats Changes or pro greater have values natural river’s The Wil Tobeatic tection the designation of since will be furtherThis improved derness Area. with the designation of Shelburne River old encompass areas These Wilderness Area. undisturbed glacial land forests, growth barrens. and extensive forms inhabit a Species at Risk, Mainland moose, Species as wetland as well corridor the river Canada Atlantic sponsored Bowater at Risk. on rare research Data Center Conservation species in 2000-01. Irving from removed dam was A historic Karen by McK research to Lake according endry on the effects of dams wetland Species at Risk. None acid to is vulnerable aquatic ecosystem The precipitation - - - - - Shelburne River Integrity Guideline(s) Integrity River Shelburne Shelburne Rivers is 53kmThe in length and of 27739 area with a drainage flowing is free wilderness largest Scotia’s It is Nova hectares. river. is in corridor 95% of the river Approximately and is essential ownership crown provincial 5% remaining The ly in wilderness condition. Corpora Power Scotia the Nova by is owned tion. No impoundments exist on river they exist in the watershed; Dam remnants has natural not active and the system are An active hydroelec their presence. to ized tric dam exists on Lake Rossignol and effects Shel with the lower on associated flowage burne River. is intact aquatic ecosystem natural The - - - CHRS Principles, Procedures & Operational & Operational Procedures CHRS Principles, Guidelines (2001) Guidelines Integrity 3.3.1 Natural sectionto nominated The is of sufficient size of all representations include significant or other phe features, processes, the natural its outstanding the river nomena which give value natural section nominated The includes those which contribute components ecosystem for of habitat to the provision significantly species in need of protection no human-made impoundments are There sectionwithin the nominated compo All key elements and ecosystem impoundments by unaffected nents are section outside the nominated located section in the nominated is un water The the extent to that its natural contaminated is intactaquatic ecosystem Table 4 Shelburne River Integrity River 4 Shelburne Table 26 Shelburne River - CHRS 10-year Monitoring Report - - Changes or Threats to River Integrity River to Threats Changes or None None ensures A Special Management Corridor is maintained; integrity of the river long term acquisition and designation of 95% cor area. ridor as legally protected is being de canoe route Dwellers Tent The and the heritage values promote to veloped aesthetics of the river - - Shelburne River Integrity Guideline(s) Integrity River Shelburne affected not been adversely have Aesthetics human developments by canoeing and quality is suitable for Water Due to contact activities. other recreational with local conditions pH associated the low may water the river and acid precipitation, eyes. some swimmer’s irritate most re Scotia’s Shelburne River is Nova The extensive known wilderness rivers for mote eskers conspicuous and old growth barrens, forests since has been used recreationally river The but maintains its original appear the 1800s, ance - - - - CHRS Principles, Procedures & Operational & Operational Procedures CHRS Principles, Guidelines (2001) aesthetic character of the nomi natural The or not adversely sectionnated of, is free human developments by, affected Values Integrity 3.3.3 Recreational of a quality suit possesses water river The in activities, contact recreational able for opportunitiescluding those recreational for which it is nominated is capable of visual appearance river’s The with a continuous travellers river providing natural or a combined experience, natural without significant experience, and cultural modern human intrusions by interruption supportingof capable is river recreation The or impact al uses without significant loss of, or its visual values and cultural its natural on, character

Shelburne River - CHRS 10-year Monitoring Report 27 10.0 Review of Management Plan Objectives

Management goals and objectives for the Shelburne River were outlined in 1996, as a part of the CHRS nomination process, in The Shelburne Canadian Heritage River Management Plan. The creation of the management plan allowed the Shelburne River to be designated in 1997. Table 5 lists the management plan recommendations and reports on the degree of achievement by government and other groups.

Note: Many references to Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources (NSDNR) in the management plan now apply to Nova Scotia Environment (NSE), as provincial responsibility for the CHRS was transferred to Environment in 1998.

28 Shelburne River - CHRS 10-year Monitoring Report ------educa guide for guide for Into the Tobeatic Into the Wild It Keep Action(s) Wilderness Tobeatic in the Action reiterated Managementas priorityArea Plan actions : 4.2.3a - establish a voluntary user registra tion system of estab the feasibility 4.2.3b - Investigate lishing a mandatory sys user registration and encourage information provide to tem, safety personal responsibility for Wilder Tobeatic Action is supported in the Managementness Area Plan: and mini values protect natural To 4.2.3h - direct users impacts, recreation adverse mize and identified existing use designated to along the Shelburne River at sites tenting Falls Granite Lake, Beverley Sand Beach Lake, and Lake Rossignol Sand Lake, Irving Lake, Heritage River with Shelburne Canadian partners of the Development tional campaign of the Development the which follows low-impact recreation, principles no trace leave - Degree of Achievement (Initiated, On-go (Initiated, of Achievement Degree Complete) Partial, Addressed, ing, for the - A specific permit system Partial at Shelburne River will not be implemented will be used, other tools Instead, this time. Tobeatic such as those actions defined in the ManagementWilderness Area Plan. actionThis is supported sites for Initiated. and the Wilderness Area Tobeatic within the Wilderness Area.. Shelburne River candidate has been don,. work No on-site Complete - The Shelburne Canadian Heritage River Heritage River Canadian Shelburne The Plan (1996) Management (in Redesign and implement a permit system with Kejimkujik National Park) cooperation manage that will meet wilderness travel ment requirements and NS with Bowater in cooperation NSDNR, establish and maintain wilderness to Power, with minimal basic facilities campsites the use of backpackingEncourage stoves the impactand monitor and of campfires impacts - if negative firewood demand for eliminating campfires consider found, are Table 5 Shelburne River Management Plan Objectives Management River 5 Shelburne Table Shelburne River - CHRS 10-year Monitoring Report 29 ------Action(s) underway KayakDiscussions are with Canoe a por develop and local clubs to Scotia Nova agreement. tage maintenance Wilderness Area Tobeatic in the Addressed Management Plan: with partners clearly mark to Work 4.2.3f - and maintain carries (portages) on major ca Rose Shelburne, on the Sissiboo, noe routes All other Rivers. Jordan Branch West and way, unmarked, carries will remain canoe route demand greater use levels unless future management of these routes. in boats is prohibited use of motorized The as per ManageWilderness Area Tobeatic the 4.2.5 - NSEL will not permit ment Framework Wilderness Area Tobeatic use in the vehicle rec circumstances, in specific limited except on the use is permitted ognizing that vehicle Silvery to and Indian Fields from road Crown DeMoliter Lakes. on Sand Lake use of motorboats will be The the designation od Shel through reviewed Wilderness Area. burne River and Pollard’s Mason’s, Existing cabins (Cofan, a part being maintained through are Falls) DNR and Kejimkujik NSE, nership between National Park. - Degree of Achievement (Initiated, On-go (Initiated, of Achievement Degree Complete) Partial, Addressed, ing, Partial TWA, within upper watershed for Complete the lower does not apply to this prohibition Sand and Irving nor for of the river, reach lakes at this time. On-going - The Shelburne Canadian Heritage River Heritage River Canadian Shelburne The Plan (1996) Management portagesClear and develop a minimal to passage and mini safe for required standard impacts site mized wildlife for except boats, motorized Prohibit management purposes NSDNR will build and maintain wardens’ cabins

30 Shelburne River - CHRS 10-year Monitoring Report - - - - Paddling the Paddling Action(s) Wilderness Area Tobeatic in the Addressed Management Plan: and consider heritage sites 4.2.1b - Evaluate protect or com to measures restoration In particular, values. identified memorate of or restoration commemoration consider and the cabin at Buckshot Lake, the ranger cabins at Sand of the ranger maintenance Lake. Tobeatic Beach Lake and at brochure Tobeatic the map on the Into The portageshows some lengths and gives information. travel An to information resource NSE provided his book, Smith for L. drew Routes of Southwestern Canoe Nova Tobeatic: Scotia Wil Tobeatic and Kejimkujik National Park com Managementare derness Area Plans Members of each plementary each other. to advisory sat on the other group’s committee has not been Plan Kejimkujik’s committee. the public at this time. to released with this action is complying via Bowater at Mersey River bridge. control public access - Degree of Achievement (Initiated, On-go (Initiated, of Achievement Degree Complete) Partial, Addressed, ing, - preliminaryInitiated is of cabin sites review complete. Wilderness Area. Tobeatic for Complete On-going On-going - - - - - The Shelburne Canadian Heritage River Heritage River Canadian Shelburne The Plan (1996) Management and Buck NSDNR will maintain the Cofan features shot camps as cultural a back countryNSDNR will produce guide the Shelburne River with trip plan map for wilder guidelines, safety ning information, information ness ethics and interpretive NSDNR and Kejimkujik will act in partnership use man in the recreational cooperate to of the river agement requirements restrict to public ac will continue Bowater lands to on company roads forest to cess qualityensure wilderness experiences

Shelburne River - CHRS 10-year Monitoring Report 31 - - - Action(s) has been com Some ad hoc interpretation do more is an intention and there pleted, Wilderness Area Tobeatic with the associated is festival Centennial Dwellers Tent The 2008. planned for Wilderness Area Tobeatic in the Addressed Management Plan: 4.4.2c - Support of inter the development and off- both on-site for materials pretation programming site be Area Protected Candidate Tobeatic The in 1998 Wilderness Area came a is in the Wilderness Area Shelburne River The planning stages the administrative to has adhered Bowater Wilderness Tobeatic direction outlined in the ManagementArea Plan: land managers and with Crown Work 4.3.1a - hydro tourism, industry partners in forestry, develop to estate mining and real power, complementary for management measures lands adjacent the administrative to has adhered Bowater Wilderness Tobeatic direction outlined in the ManagementArea Plan: land managers and with Crown Work 4.3.1a - hydro tourism, industry partners in forestry, develop to estate mining and real power, complementary for management measures lands adjacent - Degree of Achievement (Initiated, On-go (Initiated, of Achievement Degree Complete) Partial, Addressed, ing, Partial Complete Complete On-going On-going - The Shelburne Canadian Heritage River Heritage River Canadian Shelburne The Plan (1996) Management a detailed interpretive NSDNR will initiate plan Tobeatic protection of the legislative Formal Area Protected Candidate establishment of a special management The the river where Bowater (SMC) by corridor lands company through flows will be no harvestingThere in the 30m cor the river to adjacent ridor immediately bogs and will be no harvestingThere in fens, that extend the river to adjacent swamps the 30m corridor beyond

32 Shelburne River - CHRS 10-year Monitoring Report Action(s) Wilderness Designation of Shelburne River in protection of most this will result Area corridor Bowater objective has been met by This been initiated Preliminary discussions have on this objective. - Degree of Achievement (Initiated, On-go (Initiated, of Achievement Degree Complete) Partial, Addressed, ing, On-going On-going On-going Initiated - - - - The Shelburne Canadian Heritage River Heritage River Canadian Shelburne The Plan (1996) Management in the Special Manage area remaining The maintain will be managed to ment Corridor nominated was which the river for the values fiber produc for the CHRS while allowing to tion management activitiesWhere outside the 150m SMC will impact on the views seen will be taken care the river, while travelling their impact reduce to pos where will be scheduled, Operations travel outside of peak periods river sible, with NS establishment of an agreement The as and values protect features to Power portion with the lower sociated of the river corporation the power by owned

Shelburne River - CHRS 10-year Monitoring Report 33 - - - Action(s) Wilderness Area Tobeatic in the Addressed Management Plan: a compre towards work 4.1.1a - Continue identify to inventory biodiversity hensive habitats and genetic variability, the species, Wilderness Area. Tobeatic of the ecosystems with academic, 4.1.2a - In collaboration improve and community partners, agency, capacity building on existing by research new research and encouraging programs projects. gaps and set information 4.1.2b - Evaluate the wilderness priorities for clear research area with partners information 4.1.2c - Share to Where findings. research of use the maximize in research relevant use findings of possible, aid management. to the region monitor a comprehensive 4.1.2d - Develop identify key to eco framework ing program and stressors. structures, functions, system and reporting monitoring Develop activities and and corporate agencies, with regional community partners. heritage research 4.2.1c - Identify cultural projects, new research and encourage needs, seeking support funding to priorities. - - Degree of Achievement (Initiated, On-go (Initiated, of Achievement Degree Complete) Partial, Addressed, ing, / On-going Addressed or been completed of projects A range have Re Tobeatic the Mersey through initiated and other partners. Institute, search The Shelburne Canadian Heritage River Heritage River Canadian Shelburne The Plan (1996) Management and cultural of natural, inventories Resource integrity values

34 Shelburne River - CHRS 10-year Monitoring Report - - - - Action(s) a new wilderness designate to NSE intends which will be known as the Shelburne area, Wilderness Area River Wilderness Area Tobeatic in the Addressed Management Plan: risk-manage a recreation 4.2.3j - Develop for with established protocols ment strategy and emergency and rescue evacua search in conjunction with other agencies and tion, community partners. is planned for Festival Dwellers Tent The 2008. Wilderness Area Tobeatic in the Addressed Management Plan: 4.4.2c - Support of inter the development and off- both on-site for materials pretation programming. site sampling station has been A hydrometric it is part installed on the Shelburne River; Water Surface Automated Scotia’s of Nova Quality Monitoring Network under discussion. objective is currently This through: Addressed MTRI and Mi’kmaq Rightsresearch Initiative installa quality through monitoring Water sampling station tion of a new hydrometric - Degree of Achievement (Initiated, On-go (Initiated, of Achievement Degree Complete) Partial, Addressed, ing, Initiated / Initiated Partial Complete On-going On-going - - - The Shelburne Canadian Heritage River Heritage River Canadian Shelburne The Plan (1996) Management Wil adoption and implementation of a The Managementderness Recreation Strategy and implementation of an preparation The plan interpretive establishment and implementation of The meet CHRS require to system a monitoring ments of the integrity the maintenance ensure To wilderness and archaeological of the natural owned lands area, within the flowage values will be managed in a manner NS Power by with CHRS objectives consistent permit, as resources priority, NSDNR will give and unique species, of rare the inventory to asso sites of archaeological the inventory and the collection of with the river, ciated quality benchmark data water

Shelburne River - CHRS 10-year Monitoring Report 35 - - Action(s) ManagementWilderness Area Tobeatic The Plan: a compre towards work 4.1.1a Continue identify to inventory biodiversity hensive and habitats, genetic variability, the species, Wilderness Area. Tobeatic of the ecosystems is being conducted research Collaborative Insti Research Tobeatic the Merseythrough tute - Degree of Achievement (Initiated, On-go (Initiated, of Achievement Degree Complete) Partial, Addressed, ing, On-going - The Shelburne Canadian Heritage River Heritage River Canadian Shelburne The Plan (1996) Management other government NSDNR will encourage conduct to re agencies and universities especially in on the Shelburne River, search association with Kejimkujik National Park

36 Shelburne River - CHRS 10-year Monitoring Report 11.0 Summary and Conclusions

The Shelburne River remains as Nova Scotia’s largest pristine wilderness river. Many of the significant events that followed its recognition as a Heritage River strengthen or improve the protection afforded to its values. These include: designation of Tobeatic Wilderness Area; recognition of Kejimkujik as a Mi’kmaw Cultural Landscape; the designation of the Southwest Nova Biosphere Reserve; and the Crown’s acquisition of the lower river corridor from AbitibiBowater to be designated as Shelburne River Wilder- ness Area. Similarly, the community-led projects of the SNBRA and MTRI have improved understanding and appreciation of the river and the region’s natural heritage.

Due to its remoteness, much of the activity that has taken place along the river has been research ori- ented. Although the river is well-known by wilderness canoeists and environmental researchers, river use remains relatively low.

Impacts from human use or development have been minimal since designation. Annual community events, and The Tent Dwellers 2008 centennial festival, will continue to draw experienced wilderness travellers to the river.

Due to collaborative efforts and management planning, there have been no negative effects on the river since its designation in 1997 - although acid precipitation may have negative effects on already acidic lakes. This report has determined that the heritage and recreational values of the Shelburne River remain intact, or have improved since designation. Based on this report, the Shelburne River is deemed worthy of continued designation as a river of national significance within the Canadian Heritage Rivers System.

Shelburne River - CHRS 10-year Monitoring Report 37 12.0 References

Canadian Heritage Rivers System. A Cultural Framework for Canadian Heritage Rivers, 2nd Edition. 2000

A Framework for the Natural Values of Canadian Heritage Rivers, 2nd Edition. 2001

Principles, Procedures and Operational Guidelines. 2001

Hilderman Thomas Frank Cram. Canadian Heritage River System Red River Background Study. 1998

Mersey Tobeatic Research Institute and Parks Canada. Annual Report of Research and Monitoring in the Greater Kejimkujik Ecosystem 2006. Kempt: 2007.

Nova Scotia Department of Environment and Labour. Into the Tobeatic: A Guide for Planning Wilderness Travel in Tobeatic Wilderness Area. 2005

Tobeatic Wilderness Area Management Plan. 2006

Keep It Wild: A Guide for Low Impact Recreation in Nova Scotia’s Wilderness Areas. 2006 Update.

Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources. Canadian Heritage Rivers System Nomination Document - Shelburne River. 1993

The Shelburne Canadian Heritage River Management Plan. 1996

Rutherford, L.A and associates. Nova Scotia CHRS Background Study - Shelburne River - Study River Reports/Maps. 1988

Smith, Andrew L. Paddling the Tobeatic: Canoes Routes of Southwestern Nova Scotia. Nimbus Publishing, Halifax: 2004.

38 Shelburne River - CHRS 10-year Monitoring Report