A U.S.-based organization aiming to establish a sanctuary in Nova Scotia for retired whales from marine parks has secured a 20-year lease for Crown property along the province’s Eastern Shore. The non-profit Whale Sanctuary Project revealed the lease agreement for 83 hectares of Crown land and coastal waters near Wine Harbour community. Premier Tim Houston’s cabinet approved the lease in October, although critics highlighted the delay in its signing.
In June, the project’s organizers conducted a groundbreaking event at the location, which is privately funded. Initial work has commenced on revamping a wharf designated for the sanctuary’s whale care facilities. This wharf will also function as a base for setting up a large floating enclosure, estimated to be the size of 50 football fields. Charles Vinick, the CEO of the Whale Sanctuary Project, initially proposed a 40-hectare saltwater pen over six years ago.
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