In 2024, Halifax planted native greenery around Birch Cove Beach to restore its natural look and help protect the lake’s water quality. (Source: Halifax Regional Municipality)
New plants at two lakes near Halifax are helping more than just the view. They’re keeping the water clean and geese away. Last summer, Birch Cove Beach in Dartmouth got a green makeover. Workers planted 237 shrubs, grasses, and flowers. The goal? To stop Canada geese from hanging around.
Why Geese Are a Problem
“Canada geese love open areas,” said Tracy Jessen from the Parks and Recreation department. “They don’t want predators hiding behind tall grass.” These birds leave behind a lot of droppings. Too many geese mean too much bacteria in the water. This can lead to unsafe swimming conditions.
Right now, three beaches—Taylor Head, Penhorn Lake, and Lake Echo—have warnings in place. The water at these spots has too much bacteria like E. coli.
Birch Cove Sees Early Success
So far, the Birch Cove project has worked well. But the plants still need care. “It takes a good three years to be established,” said Jessen. “We’ve seen more bugs and plant life already.” The city added winter protection for the plants and later removed it. Now they hope local people will help care for the area.
They’re also watching for invasive plants that might harm the new ones.
New Project at Penhorn Lake
Penhorn Lake Beach is next in line. Geese have been a problem there for years. Now the city has re-naturalized that area too. In May, the city also held a planting workshop with a local group to get the community involved.
Jessen said the plants help in many ways. “They protect the water’s edge and keep the lakes healthier,” she explained. These lakes are near bus stops, so many people visit. That’s why it’s important to keep them open and safe.
More Than Just Beauty
These new plants do more than look pretty. They help block dirty stormwater from flowing into the lakes. This cuts down on bacteria. The plants also stop the soil from washing away. That protects the land and keeps lakes clean.
Jessen added, “It’s also good for attracting pollinators.” Bugs like bees and butterflies visit these plants. And that helps birds too. Many birds eat caterpillars, so when bugs thrive, birds do too.
Next Stop: Kinsmen First Lake Beach
In October, the city will start a new project at Kinsmen First Lake Beach in Lower Sackville. It’s part of the Living Lakeshores program. The goal is the same—bring nature back and keep the lakes safe.
Jessen believes these efforts are important. “Beaches and lakes are part of who we are in Nova Scotia,” she said. “They help define our communities.”
And in her words, “I like to say I’m inviting nature back into the parks.”
