Episode 4: The Portage Problem

Right Of Way

Canoers, kayakers, and stand-up paddle boarders all use Nova Scotia's waterways, including the marine coastlines. These activities are popular for tourists and locals alike, but a growing problem with reliable and low-barrier access has canoers looking over their shoulders when they stop to rest. Hikers, who enjoy the coastline from the land, are also challenged by crowding, no parking, and mounting trash at some of the province's most popular trailheads. What can be done to ensure access is clean, safe, and available as outdoor recreation grows in popularity?

In Episode 4 of Right of Way, we explore these issues and raise an important question: is it time for Nova Scotia to adopt a coastal access ethic?

Special thanks to our guests Dusan Sudek and Heather Leslie of Canoe Kayak Nova Scotia, and Lloyd Knauss of Hike Nova Scotia.

In this episode, you heard references to the following groups and ideas:
Hike Nova Scotia
Canoe Kayak Nova Scotia
Leave No Trace Canada
"Right to Roam" (also called Freedom to Roam) information

You can learn more about the Coastal Access Project and share your coastal access story with us on our website: www.coastalaccessproject.com.

Special thanks to the Royal Canadian Geographic Society and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada for their support of this project. Thanks also to the Marine Affairs Program at Dalhousie University for additional support, editing from Podstarter, and cover art from Laura Bonga.