T12.3 Geology and Resources

The diverse geology of Nova Scotia, which began to form over 1.2 billion years ago, spans a wide range of rock types and has benefited its inhabitants ever since humans first entered the landscape. Local use of geologic resources by native cultures and early Europeans developed into extensive commercial exploration and export when then French and English settled here permanently. Many of Nova Scotia's contemporary urban areas were settled as the result of one form of mining venture or another.

The exploration and development sector is still active in Nova Scotia and has expanded to include the offshore. As with the other primary resource sectors in Nova Scotia, the history of mining is evident in the landscape. In addition, fossils have become a significant resource for tourism, recreation and education.

This section contains a brief synopsis of how Nova Scotians have used land-based and offshore geologic resources. Table T12.3.1 lists the locations of these resources, past and present.

This Document Includes:

Pre-European Contact

Hydrocarbon Potential of the Scotian Shelf

Download PDF File (186k, 9 pages, 3 figures, 1 table)

Additional Keywords:
Mi'kmaq, coal-mining disaster, Springhill, Devco, minerals, mines, Cohasset Project, health, reclamation, Sable Island, oilfields, Banquereau, Georges Bank, Laurentian Sub-basin, pollution, oil spills

Associated Topics

Associated Habitats

H1.2

H5.3

H5.5