Article contentThe habitat in the cove has recovered to the extent that the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) has determined that the proposed rock “dumping” would cause harmful alteration and destruction of fish habitat. This is clearly not the time to introduce a major insult to the ecosystem of Dartmouth Cove while the habitat has not fully recovered.Article contentArticle contentLiving shorelinesArticle contentFortunately, there is a better path forward — one that respects both the environment and the people who cherish this place. Instead of using the cove as a dumping ground, we should invest in living shorelines. Restoring eelgrass beds and salt marshes would absorb wave energy, create habitats for fish and other wildlife, and naturally filter water. These aren’t just theoretical ideas; they’re proven, nature-based techniques that turn vulnerable areas into resilient, thriving ecosystems.Article contentArticle contentWe can also enhance the Cove for the community in simple but meaningful ways. The Trans Canada Trail segment that traces the water’s edge could be improved with permeable paving to manage runoff and interpretive signs that tell the ecological and cultural stories of the area. The existing grassy spot with benches could be gently expanded into a small coastal park — a place for picnics, contemplation, and taking in the view, built with sustainable, local materials. Native plants and rain gardens could help manage stormwater while offering bursts of colour and life.Article contentSafety and esthetics along the CN rail line can be addressed sensitively. Planting native shrubs and grasses as a buffer would reduce noise, create a greener corridor, and maintain safe access for trail users. Most importantly, any plan must be shaped through open dialogue with residents, Indigenous communities and local organizations. The backlash against the infilling proposal made it clear: the community wants a voice, not a fait accompli.Article contentArticle contentArticle contentLead by exampleArticle contentHalifax has an opportunity to lead by example. Let’s learn from the mistakes of the past like the massive infilling with mostly pyritic slate for an extended pier and work area at the Fairview container terminal across from Africville. The rock structure has permanently altered the view from the community park and church. The situation will worsen massively when the giant cranes are installed, and the container ships arrive.Article contentInstead, Halifax should adopt municipal bylaws that protect the cove from harmful projects, much like those already in place for the Northwest Arm. Let’s channel our resources into creating a space that future generations will appreciate—a place where the water is clean, the shoreline is alive, and the community has a lasting stake in its stewardship.Article contentDartmouth Cove doesn’t need to be filled with questionable rock. It needs to be filled with care, creativity, and a shared commitment to doing what’s right. Let’s choose the benign over the damaging, the natural over the industrial, and the community’s voice over silent decisions. Let’s give the Cove the future it deserves by ‘saving’ it today.Article contentArticle contentArticle contentArticle contentArticle contentGeoffrey Hurley is a retired former fisheries and environmental consultant living in Dartmouth, N.S. He can be reached at hurleyenvironment@gmail.com.Article content Geoffrey V. Hurley FileArticle content
COMMENTARY: A better vision for Dartmouth Cove: Protect, don’t pollute
