Nova Scotia's coastlines are consistently shifting in a dynamic process of erosion and deposition called shoreline migration (see T7.1). The rates of change vary considerably, depending on exposure to wind and wave action, the presence of glacial deposits, the types of substrate and exposed bedrock, vegetation cover and the flow of water through the landscape on a seasonal basis. In addition to these natural processes, people have created their own dynamics and rates of change to coastal environments (see T7.2) and habitats (see H2).

Historical and cultural development in Nova Scotia is dominated by links to the sea, causing the majority of the population to be concentrated along the coastlines. In addition, the coastlines offer a wide variety of natural and scenic resources. Exploitation of these resources can be in conflict with natural coastal processes and put pressure on the coastal ecosystems. Most negative impacts result from a lack of understanding of coastal processes and the delicate balance of coastal ecosystems due to the effects of extreme climatic conditions.

This Document Includes:

Formation
Physical Aspects
Ecosystem
Successional Sequence
Plants
Animals

Relation to Sediments
Bedrock and Boulders
Sand and Gravel Bottoms
Mud Bottoms

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Additional Keywords:
Mik'maq, dykelands, tidal marsh, farms, logging, sheep, mining, drumlins, Bay of Fundy, jetties, breakwaters, erosion, dune erosion, Piping Plover, Coastal Zone Management

Associated Topics

T3.3 Glaciation, Deglaciation and Sea-level Changes
T4.1 Post-glacial Climatic Change
T7.1 Modifying Forces
T7.2 Coastal Environments
T12.1 Colonization by People
T12.4 Glacial Deposits and Resources
T12.9 Soil and Resources
T12.10 Plants and Resources
T12.11 Animals and Resources

Associated Habitats

H2 Coastal