The Belliveau Cove Trail in Digby County is more than just a path along the coastline—it’s a gathering place, a spot to enjoy nature, and a daily ritual for many locals. Winding through salt marshes, along beaches, and past Clare’s first Acadian cemetery, the trail holds deep cultural, social, and environmental meaning for the community.
But then came the storms that made the impacts of climate change and the importance of coastal protection all too real for the community. High winds and powerful tidal surges hit the coastline hard, washing away sections of the trail, eroding the land, and turning this beloved community space into an unsafe, damaged path. But Mother Nature’s fury was no match for the community’s resolve. They understood what we owe each other—to push forward, no matter the challenge. The people of Belliveau Cove would not let climate change take away their trail.
Almost immediately, residents banded together to restore the trail. But instead of simply fixing the damage, they saw an opportunity to make it stronger and more resilient for the future. “We are concerned about the effects of climate change, which in our case is the increasingly rising tides,” said Gary Theriault, President of the Belliveau Cove Development Commission. “Building higher, with more durable materials for longevity, is a must as we cannot stop the tides.”
The restoration plan focused on building a more durable and accessible trail. That meant raising low-lying sections to keep them above floodwaters, widening canal gaps for improved water flow, adding new bridges, and using erosion-resistant materials designed to withstand future storms and rising tides.
But a project like this takes more than determination—it takes focus and action, resources, and funding. The Belliveau Cove Development Commission secured a grant from Nova Scotia’s Sustainable Communities Challenge Fund, a provincial program that supports community-led climate action. With funding in place and volunteers ready to roll up their sleeves, the trail was on its way to a brighter future.
Today, the Belliveau Cove Trail stands as a symbol of hope and optimism. It’s safer, stronger, and more accessible, ensuring that even more people will be enjoying the beloved old coastal trail for many more years to come.
Climate change is creating new challenges across Nova Scotia, but when faced with challenges, Nova Scotians refuse to give up. Across the province, communities are proving that when we band together, we can accomplish great things, protect what matters, and chart a future for our province that is resilient, self-reliant, and built to last.
The Belliveau Cove Trail in Digby County
Aerial of the Belliveau Cove Trail in Digby County