Biodiversity Caucus

 

What is the Biodiversity Caucus?

A caucus is simply a recurring series of meetings between those who share a common environmental priority, in this case biodiversity. One of the most effective ways for NSEN to connect members of the environmental community is to facilitate the formation of environmental caucuses.

Caucus members will join monthly meetings with those working in, volunteering in, or interested in issues related to biodiversity. At a caucus meeting, you can expect to network and learn about current and upcoming biodiversity-related projects, programs and events from across the province. The main purpose of these meetings is to promote collaboration and advance biodiversity work in Nova Scotia.

Keep reading to learn about current opportunities to get involved.

American Marten (Photo: Seventh Day Photography)

Who can join the caucus?

Anyone who is passionate about protecting biodiversity can join! Whether you are an NGO representative, an academic, or an individual eager to make a difference, you are welcome to participate in the group. Send us an email to biodiversity@nsenvironmentalnetwork.com and we’ll be happy to share more information about the Biodiversity Caucus!

Already convinced? Please complete our short form to express your interest in the caucus and we’ll connect with you as soon as possible.

 

Adult Piping Plover (Photo: Pauliina Saarinen)

 

Current Events/Opportunities

Biodiversity Caucus Webinar Series: What’s the Buzz About? Safeguarding Pollinators in Cape Breton - Unama’ki for Thriving Farms and Communities

Join the Biodiversity Caucus for a free, educational event about pollinators in Nova Scotia. Register here.

Did you know that bumble bees dance when they find a flower? Or that Monarchs travel over 4,000 km from Nova Scotia to Mexico every year? These small but mighty insects can shape the very fabric of ecosystems and are vital for the survival of all life on land. And yet, climate change, habitat loss, diseases, and industrial agriculture have threatened many pollinators, including the yellow-banded bumble bee (Bombus terricola), gypsy cuckoo bumble bee (Bombus bohemicus), and monarchs (Danaus plexippus). Dwindling pollinator populations could have detrimental effects on global biodiversity and food security. By safeguarding pollinators, we can ensure they thrive and continue their invaluable role in supporting the delicate balance of life on our planet in forests, fields, farms, and beyond.

In this webinar, join Hannah de Loë (Kosick), author of "Bumble Bees of Unama'ki" and pollinator researcher with ACAP Cape Breton, and the ACAP team to learn more about the plight of local pollinators, species at risk, conservation efforts, and how you can help protect pollinators in your backyard.

Biodiversity Caucus Meeting: May 15

Are you passionate about biodiversity? Join the caucus! One of the most effective ways for NSEN to connect members of the environmental community is to facilitate the formation of environmental caucuses. Caucus members join monthly meetings with those working in, volunteering in, or interested in biodiversity-related issues. The main purpose of these meetings is to create a space to network, promote collaboration, and advance biodiversity work in Nova Scotia.

The next caucus meeting will be held on May 15th from 2-3 PM. For more information and a meeting invite, please contact Kass Harris, Caucus Coordinator at biodiversity@nsenvironmentalnetwork.com

 

Resources

Canada-Nova Scotia Nature Agreement

The Canada-Nova Scotia Nature Agreement signifies a commitment to tackle biodiversity loss and climate change by safeguarding and restoring biodiversity, habitat, at-risk species, and migratory birds in Nova Scotia. The Agreement was formally signed in October 2023 by the federal Minister of Environment and Climate Change representing Canada, alongside the provincial Minister of Environment and Climate Change, and the Minister of Natural Resources and Renewables, acting on behalf of Nova Scotia.

Click here to read the full Agreement.

Nova Scotia Invasive Species Council: Grow Me Instead Garden Handbook

Gardens and yards are extensions of our local ecosystems and they represent incredible opportunities to help restore an area’s biodiversity. What we plant in them has an impact on the surrounding natural areas; in fact, many of today’s most damaging invasive plants were first brought to North America for ornamental purposes. This guide is a reference tool for New Brunswick and Nova Scotia gardeners to learn about invasive horticultural plants and their recommended native alternatives. By following the practices and growing the alternatives listed in the guide, you can achieve a vibrant and diverse garden that teams with life while helping to prevent the spread of invasive plants.

For each invasive plant highlighted in the guide, two native alternatives are recommended along with details about their characteristics and preferred growing conditions, uses in a garden, and additional interesting information.

Click here to access the guide.