A project sponsored by the Habitat Stewardship Program for Species at Risk, 2001 - 2003 (Environment Canada - Atlantic Region)

Involving the Community

Getting people involved and establishing local support for removal at the beginning of the process is important, as citizens can provide a much needed voice for the river, especially at the stage where decisions involve weighing economic factors against ecological issues affecting the river's overall health.

By getting involved, individuals can also actively participate in the process and therefore enable a better-informed decision process.

Some of the areas where citizens can take part include:

• Identifying safety and environmental problems associated with the existence of the dam

• Educating others about its ecological impacts

• Participating in the organization of public meetings

• Envisioning the future use of the area, like creating public parks and nature trails.

A public meeting will serve as a good start in getting feedback from the community affected by the decision to remove the dam.