Western Nova Scotia WELCOME TO - A community guide to the place we call home - Municipality of Yarmouth
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WELCOME TO
Western
Nova Scotia
A community
guide to the place
we call home Western Regional
Enterprise Network
Are you new to the area,
relocating yourself, your fam
ily or
your business to the Western
Region?
This guide takes a “live like a
local” approach
to introducing all aspects of
our community –
from community geography,
to local lingo,
to where to find business su
pports –
we’ve got you covered!
CONTENTS
Location Map and Facts.........................................................4
Life in the Western Region – Welcome ..............................6
History of the Western Region.............................................8
OUR MUNICIPALITIES
Town of Digby..........................................................................10 Community Resources in the Western Region...............52
Bear River First Nation..........................................................12 Getting Involved – Volunteering........................................ 54
Municipality of Digby.............................................................14 Senior Living........................................................................... 56
Municipality of Clare..............................................................16 Local Lingo.............................................................................. 58
Municipality of Yarmouth.....................................................18 Acadian Lingo..........................................................................59
Town of Yarmouth................................................................. 20 Newcomer Services and Sponsorship............................. 60
Acadia First Nation................................................................ 22 Western Counties Regional Libraries............................... 62
Municipality of Argyle............................................................24 The Literary Scene in the Western Region..................... 64
Municipality of Barrington...................................................26 Where to find Local News................................................... 65
Dollars and Cents – Banking.............................................. 66
Housing in the Western Region......................................... 28 Climate Change Action......................................................... 67
Safety, First Responders, Emergency.............................. 30 Weather and the Seasons................................................... 68
Health Care..............................................................................32 Festivals and Events..............................................................70
Education and Schools........................................................ 36 Food and Flavours................................................................ 72
Child Care................................................................................ 38 Canada’s Ocean Playground...............................................74
Getting Around the Western Region............................... 39 Fun on the Water................................................................... 75
Levels of Government.......................................................... 40 The Great Outdoors..............................................................76
Bills and Utilities.....................................................................41 Wildlife and Furry Friends................................................... 78
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle........................................................42 Sports and Recreation......................................................... 80
Religion, Spirituality and Places of Worship................... 44 Arts and Culture.................................................................... 82
Western Region is Open for Business............................. 46 For Museum Enthusiasts and History Buffs.................. 84
Resources for Job Seekers and Employers......................47 Photo-worthy Spots in the Western Region.................. 86
Shopping in the Western Region...................................... 48 Day Trips.................................................................................. 88
Building an Inclusive Community...................................... 50 Western Region Bucket List................................................ 90
Social Enterprises and Supports.......................................51 Thank You.................................................................................91
Front: Port Maitland Beach, Municipality of the District of Yarmouth | Photo: Yarmouth & Acadian Shores Tourism Association
This booklet was prepared in 2021. Please check information either online or in person, as we know things can change.
Western Region Welcome Home I 3
NOVA SCOTIA
Town of Digby
Bear River
Municipality
of Digby
Municipality
of Clare
WESTERN
REGION
Municipality of the District
of Yarmouth
Town of Yarmouth
Acadia First Nation
Municipality
of Argyle
Municipality of
Barrington
CAPE
BRETON
NOVA SCOTIA
Halifax
Western
Region
4 I Western Region Welcome Home
FACTS
STAY CONNECTED
Land area of Total population: Bear River First Nation, Acadia
5,270 km2 48,000
First Nation and each municipal
unit offers unique information on
Bear River First Nation BORDERS WITH: housing, taxes, services and more.
Acadia First Nation • Annapolis County
Plus 7 municipal units to the north bearriverfirstnation.ca
Municipality of Digby • Shelburne County acadiafirstnation.ca
Town of Digby to the east
Municipality of Clare • The Atlantic Ocean to digbydistrict.ca
Municipality of Yarmouth the south and west digby.ca
Town of Yarmouth clarenovascotia.com
Municipality of Argyle
district.yarmouth.ns.ca
Municipality of Barrington
townofyarmouth.ca
COORDINATES AVERAGE COMMUTE munargyle.com
43.8° N 66.1° W TO WORK: 12.4 minutes barringtonmunicipality.com
COST OF LIVING
$40,800 average yearly salary
$158,000 average house price
$688/month average rent
KEY SECTORS
Oceans Seafood Clean Tech Tourism
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
Sales & Manufacturing Trades, Transport & Healthcare
Service Equipment Operators
Yarmouth | Photo: Yarmouth & Acadian Shores Tourism Association
Western Region Welcome Home I 5
Smugglers Cove | Photo: Municipality of Clare 6 I Western Region Welcome Home
WELCOME
Welcome to Western Nova Scotia!
MAKING PEOPLE FEEL WELCOME is one of the many things that we do best.
People around here are eager to help, no matter what you need – whether it’s a cup
of sugar for your banana bread, advice on where to get your haircut or if you need
a hand moving a couch into your new home. We love to lend a helping hand.
We love our coffee and morning commutes. The longest lineups will be at your
neighbourhood coffee shop – you never have to worry about rush-hour traffic
around here.
We love talking about hockey, politics, fishing and the weather, not always in that order.
We have excellent schools throughout the region that offer schooling in both English
and French. We have several hundred kilometres of trails to explore and some of the
province’s most beautiful beaches to enjoy in all seasons. If you prefer a darker night sky
and more room to roam, some of the best real estate can be found in our rural areas.
We love to be entertained. Th’YARC, the Marc Lescarbot Theatre and the Salle Père-
Maurice-LeBlanc Theatre are celebrated venues attracting some of the best local and
visiting performances. We know how to party. You can rock out all summer long at
any of our weekend festivals that kick off in late spring and continue well past the kids
heading back to school. If you want to raise a glass while you celebrate, we can fill it
with award-winning locally produced beer, wine and spirits. You’re soon to discover
that you’ll never go hungry and, by the way, we love our traditional Acadian dishes.
We love supporting local producers. Our weekend markets are the places to see and
be seen. Don’t forget your favourite reusable bag because you’ll need something to
carry home all of your great finds. We care about the environment and sustainability
and we’re always looking for ways to improve our relationship with Mother Nature.
There are many active local groups on social media that you can seek out and join.
You’ll find groups catering to interests such as photography and travel, politics,
local businesses and leisure activities, sports, grass-roots activism and daily life
in the Western Region. We recommend searching for your community on social
media and browsing the available groups. You should also consider following
hashtags like #novascotia, #yarmouthns, #visityas, #digby, #visitbarrington
#lobstercapitalofcanada and #yarmouthandacadianshores on Instagram and Twitter.
We’re so excited for you to get to know your new community and all it has to offer.
Welcome!
Western Region Welcome Home I 7
Abbotts Harbour, Argyle | Photo: Municipality of the District of Argyle 8 I Western Region Welcome Home
HISTORY OF THE WESTERN REGION
THE WESTERN REGION is rich
with historical ties that are still
present to this day. The area was
first inhabited by the Mi’kmaq, a
First Nations people indigenous
to the Atlantic Provinces, Gaspée
region of Quebec and parts of Maine.
The Mi’kmaq and their ancestors
have lived in Kespoowuit (“land’s
end”) for at least 4,000 years.
A visit from Samuel de Champlain Cape Forchu | Photo: Yarmouth & Acadian Shores Tourism Association
in 1604 saw the area christened ‘Cap-
Forchu’. A French fishing colony was Of the roughly 40,000 United facilities replaced their predecessor.
established in the greater area shortly Empire Loyalists that settled in the Beyond the transportation of goods
thereafter. American settlers arrived province between 1776 and 1785, and services, the Western Region
from Yarmouth, Massachusetts in there were about 3,500 Black link to the New England states led to
the second half of the Seven Years’ Loyalists in the group. The group people being transported as visitors
War. The Town of Yarmouth was included newly freed slaves and those in the early 1900s. In fact, the region
officially founded in 1761 when a who were born free or bought their was one of the very first to market
large group of New England Planters freedom. Indentured servants and itself as a tourism destination.
from Sandwich, Massachusetts disbanded soldiers were also part
A vibrant tourism industry
emigrated to the region. Acadians of this wave of Loyalist settlers.
continues to this day with two ferry
who were deported from the region Settlements were established links in the Western Region: The
in 1755 returned from exile in 1767. all around Nova Scotia, Cat Ferry between Yarmouth and
Digby was initially known as including the Western Region Bar Harbour, Maine, the Fundy Rose
Oositookun, meaning ‘ear of at Digby and Weymouth. ferry crossing from Digby to Saint
land’. New England Planters The Region’s expansive coastline John, New Brunswick. The entire
settled in the town in the 1760’s, has led to an economy built on Western Region boasts world-
changing the name to Conway. seafaring and fishing. The local ports renowned sport and commercial
The final name change to Digby thrived as hubs where trains and fishing industries, and unique cultural
came in 1783 once it was formally ships met. The Western Region events. You can take in the Wharf
settled by Sir Robert Digby. was a shipping connection between Rat Rally and Scallop Days in Digby,
The area’s population continued the province’s rail markets and Gran Fondo bike tour in Clare, Nova
to surge through the 1700’s as major US hubs like New York and Scotia Lumberjack Championships
Acadians, Loyalists and New Boston. As wooden ship building in Barrington and to a wide variety
England Planters arrived to declined at the end of the 19th of smaller local festivals and
settle from the United States. century, factories and steamship community events year-round.
Western Region Welcome Home I 9
Town of Digby
For scallop lovers, DIGBY needs no
introduction. Home of the world-
famous Digby Scallops, many of the
residents have been making their living
from the sea since the town was settled
in 1783.
Nestled along the western shore of
the breathtaking Annapolis Basin, you
can reach Digby via Highway 303, off
Highway 101. The economy in the Town
of Digby is driven by the world’s largest
scallop fleet, tourism, and the Fundy
Rose Ferry that links the town with
Saint John, New Brunswick. A ferry
has linked these locations for more
than 200 years.
While Digby’s population is on the
smaller side, the town is the main
hub for services, food, and shopping
in the area. The Town of Digby is the
largest centre in the Municipality, and
boasts a wide variety of cafes, shops,
and cozy accommodations. Residents
enjoy access to excellent health care
facilities, vibrant public spaces, parks,
and hiking trails. The town also features
the Digby Pines Golf Resort and Spa,
with a championship course designed
by Stanley Thompson. Digby’s full-
service marina can accommodate most
pleasure craft. The town offers a high
quality of life for below-average cost
of living.
During the warmer months, camping,
hiking, and historical sites make for
great opportunities for recreation.
All photos: Digby Area Tourism Association
10 I Western Region Welcome Homedigby.ca
Town of Digby Downtown Waterfront
The Town of Digby is ripe for adds to the opportunities for
business development. Industrial tourism-related services.
lands developed and managed in Camping, hiking, and historical
partnership with the Municipality
sites make for great opportunities for
of the District of Digby also boast
recreation for residents and visitors
access to the deepest seaport on
alike. The town’s population swells
the Nova Scotia side of the Bay of
to nearly 50,000 during the Labour
Fundy, and are located near the Digby
Day weekend for Wharf Rat Rally, the
Annapolis Regional Airport. There are
opportunities to expand the tourism, largest motorcycle rally in Atlantic
fishery, and aquaculture sectors. The Canada. A popular draw for motorcycle
Town’s designation as part of the enthusiasts all over Canada, this is an
Southwest Nova Biosphere Reserve event not to be missed.
Western Region Welcome Home I 11Bear River First Nation Judy Pearson | Photo: Digby Area Tourism Association Bear River | Photo: Digby Area Tourism Association Mi’kmaq Heritage and Cultural Centre | Photo: bearriverfirstnation.ca 12 I Western Region Welcome Home
bearriverfirstnation.ca
Photo: bearriverfirstnation.ca
BEAR RIVER FIRST NATION is a
Mi’kma’ki community located on
3.34 square kilometres in Digby and
Annapolis counties.
The community was established in
1820 and is home to 108 band mem-
bers on reserve and 226 off-reserve
members, the Mi’kmaq Heritage and
Cultural Centre, a health centre and
Muin Sipu Learning Centre. There’s
also a gas station, church and band
Photo: bearriverfirstnation.ca
hall on reserve.
Bear River First Nation is home to which is used to make baskets; yellow Bear River First Nation is governed
the Medicine Trail, a 1.5 km walk that birch flowers, which are used to make by an elected Chief and Band Council,
showcases some of the special plants tea; wild sarsaparilla, a root that’s who each serve a two-year term.
used in traditional Mi’kmaq medi- also used to make tea; and sweet-
cine. It’s a special and spiritual place fern, which has leaves and twigs that
that represents the Mi’kmaq’s close are used to make tea and poultices
relationship with Mother Earth. Along to treat poison ivy rashes and other
the trail you’ll find the rare black ash, external sores.
Western Region Welcome Home I 13Municipality of Digby Whale Watching off Brier Island | All Photos: Digby Area Tourism Association Westport Lighthouse Sandy Cove Beach 14 I Western Region Welcome Home
digbydistrict.ca
Digby Pines Golf Resort and Spa
A rugged, picturesque community tidal power of the Bay of Fundy as a rink, and trail systems. Hikers and
situated along the Bay of Fundy, designated “Port of Choice” for tidal photography enthusiasts should be
THE MUNICIPALITY encompasses energy - both service and repair. sure to check out Balancing Rock,
a large swath of coastline along The Municipality has unlimited on Long Island. It’s one of many
Highway 101 from Smith’s Cove possibilities for manufacturing, breathtaking views offered in an area
to Weymouth, and deep inland. and a skilled workforce to match. situated along the Bay of Fundy. The
Fishing, seafood processing, tourism, Residents of the Municipality enjoy Bay of Fundy was nominated as one
and forestry are all economic access to exceptional recreation of the Seven Wonders of Canada.
drivers in the area. Significant facilities with the Municipal Arena,
opportunities exist to harness the a pool, sports fields, a curling
Western Region Welcome Home I 15Municipality of Clare Mavillette Beach Provincial Park | All photos: Municipality of Clare Gran Fondo Baie Sainte-Marie La Cuisine Robicheau 16 I Western Region Welcome Home
clarenovascotia.com
Belliveau Cove Municipal Park
THE MUNICIPALITY OF CLARE is Acadian roots. If you enjoy cycling, be expand the economy by carving
made up of predominantly french- sure to check out the Gran Fondo Baie out a niche in tourism, or partner
speaking communities sprawled Sainte-Marie, a growing, premiere in research and development.
along St. Mary’s Bay and inland. cycling event that focuses on fun The Municipality of Clare is home
You can experience the quaint for all participants. The community to Nova Scotia’s only francophone
charm of the Acadian Shore by is well-educated, and enjoys access university in Universite Sainte-
traveling along Highway 101, Highway to innovative community-based Anne. The campus is touted as the
1, and Highway 340. Clare stretches public transportation, as well as greenest university, with biomass
50 kilometres from Salmon River exceptional health care services to furnaces, wind turbines, and solar
to Saint Bernard. From majestic, capitalize on emerging industries in energy. There are elementary and
old churches to quaint homes renewable energy and aquaculture. high schools serving students from
dotting the coast, the drive alone The economy in Clare is driven primary through 12th grade.
is worth a Sunday afternoon. primarily by fishing, seafood With some of the most competitive
The community was first settled in processing, fur farming, and forestry. housing prices, low commercial and
1768, with incorporation a year later. A rich history of boat manufacturing residential assessment rates, and
Clare residents enjoy wonderful thrives to this day, with products rugged beauty as far as the eye can
festivals, music, culture, and a way from Clare being exported world- see, the Municipality of Clare truly
of life that is directly tied to their wide. There exist opportunities to is a gem in the Western Region.
Western Region Welcome Home I 17Municipality of Yarmouth Cape Forchu Lighthouse | Photo: YASTA 18 I Western Region Welcome Home
district.yarmouth.ns.ca
Ellenwood Provincial Park | Photo: Yarmouth & Acadian Shores Tourism Association (YASTA) Below: Hakuna Matata Ice Cream | Photo: YASTA
Located at the Southwestern tip of manufacturing, and technology
Nova Scotia, THE MUNICIPALITY OF sectors have an opportunity to
THE DISTRICT OF YARMOUTH flourish in the Municipality.
(colloquially referred to as MoDY) There are three schools within
is made up of a diverse collection the Municipality, Maple Grove
of communities in a rural setting. Education Centre, Port Maitland
The Municipality is the point of Consolidated Elementary School,
intersection for Highways 101 and and Carleton Consolidated School.
103. Diversity is key here. Landscapes There is an abundance of
can vary from the majestic, opportunities to take in the
rugged coastline at Cape Forchu, breathtaking nature throughout
to rolling hills, old growth forests, the Municipality, whether it’s
working wharves and tucked-away exploring the Tobeatic Wilderness
communities ripe for discovery Area, Cape Forchu, or one of our
during a meandering Sunday drive. provincial parks and campgrounds
With an international airport and like Ellenwood Park.
a large business park that features The Municipality of the District
a state-of-the-art contact centre, of Yarmouth offers a high quality of
the Municipality of the District life, low cost of living, and a peaceful
of Yarmouth has the flexibility place to lay down roots and grow.
to accommodate all manner of
economic sectors. Fishing, farming,
Port Maitland Beach | Photo: YASTA
Western Region Welcome Home I 19Town of Yarmouth Yarmouth Heritage District | Photo: YASTA The TOWN OF YARMOUTH is the You’ll find Halifax, the provincial Founded in 1761, the Town’s primary hub for all things business, capital, just over 300 km away. seafaring roots are still evident today. education, health, finance and The province of New Brunswick is Take a stroll along the working lifestyle in the Western Region. to the north, separated by the Bay waterfront to experience the salty Nestled at the ends of Highways of Fundy. Maine, USA is located sea air and catch a glimpse of our 101 and 103 on the south western to the northwest, and linked to fish harvesters working up close. tip of Nova Scotia, the town is the Yarmouth via Bar Harbour thanks Get lucky and strike up a largest population centre in the area. to The Cat high-speed ferry. conversation with one of the many 20 I Western Region Welcome Home
townofyarmouth.ca
Yarmouth Harbour | Photo: YASTA
friendly fishers,who are always eager meals, secluded beaches, and
to share tales of their time at sea. great spots to unwind and take in
During the summer months, the unspoiled nature in the area.
the town is alive with festivals, Stroll along The Hartlin Trail and
sporting events, and live music. rest for a moment at historic Frost
The Town of Yarmouth boasts the Park, one of several green spaces
only satellite branch of the Art in the Town. Beacon Park, Rotary
Gallery of Nova Scotia. You’ll find Park, and Sealed Landers Park are
a variety of shops, services, and parks to spend an afternoon.
cafes in the downtown core. The Town of Yarmouth boasts
Known for world-class hospitality, several schools : Central Elementary
SIP Cafe Yarmouth | Photo: YASTA
Yarmouth residents welcome School, Meadowfields Elementary
newcomers with a smile and a School, Yarmouth Consolidated Campus of Dalhousie School
helping hand. You’ll never run out Memorial High School, NSCC’s of Nursing, and the Yarmouth
of recommendations for incredible Burridge Campus, the Yarmouth County Learning Network.
Western Region Welcome Home I 21Acadia First Nation Photo: acadiafirstnation.ca
acadiafirstnation.ca
Population: XXXX
Photo: acadiafirstnation.ca
The Yarmouth reserve is the most and spirituality of its people. Your Winner’s World, a gas station,
populated reserve in the ACADIA The Yarmouth reserve is home convenience store and gaming centre.
FIRST NATION (AFN). It was to a Community Health Centre Acadia First Nation is governed by
officially established on June 8, staffed by a family doctor and a an elected Chief and Band Council,
1887 and it’s located in Yarmouth community nurse, as well as a who each serve a five-year term.
County on 27.7 hectares of land Youth Centre that offers an after- The Yarmouth reserve maintains
near the Yarmouth Airport. school program, a drop-in program the largest band membership
Acadia First Nation is a welcoming, and camps. Several businesses on reserve in all of the Acadia
inclusive multigenerational Mi’kmaw operate on the reserve including the First Nation and is considered its
Nation that is unique, self-sufficient AFN Entertainment Centre, which central hub since it’s the home of
and sustainable. AFN strives to offers bingo, VLTs and hall rentals; the main administration office.
protect its waterways and lands, Winner’s One Stop Restaurant, a
and values the traditions, culture casual dining establishment; and
Western Region Welcome Home I 23Municipality of Argyle
The Argyle Township Court House & Gaol Camp Cove Wharf, Lower Argyle
The MUNICIPALITY OF ARGYLE is
made up of a sprawling network of
small communities surrounded by
the Atlantic ocean, rivers, marshes,
and lakes. Travelling along Highway
103 or the scenic Highway 3 will
allow you to take in many of the
beautiful coastal villages dotting
more than 150km of coastline.
Wharves are found in
communities from Pubnico to
Wedgeport and beyond, where the
lucrative fishing industry drives the
Municipality’s economy.
Local restaurants make use of the
country’s best lobster and haddock
Salmon River Lighthouse in West Pubnico | All photos: Municipality of the District of Argyle in their renowned dishes.
24 I Western Region Welcome Homemunargyle.com
Église Sainte-Anne, Sainte-Anne-du-Ruisseau
Be sure to try a lobster poutine if A wide variety of festivals are held Drumlin Heights Consolidated
the opportunity presents itself. year-round; some highlights include School and Plymouth School
There are opportunities in a number the Wedgeport Tuna Tournament, welcome anglophone students.
of sectors including aquaculture Acadian Day festivals on August 15th, The Municipality of the District
and tourism. A Municipally-owned and the local favourite Quinan Picnic of Argyle boasts a high quality
business park is located in Tusket. on Labour Day. Pancake breakfasts, of life with a low cost of living,
Residents in the Municipality lobster suppers, and turkey dinners and ample opportunities for
enjoy access to a wide variety of are served at community halls affordable housing and land.
incredible recreation opportunities, throughout the Municipality.
from cycling along 47 km of trails There are six schools within the
to paddling before a picnic lunch Municipality, and a post-secondary
at Glenwood Provincial Park. For opportunity via Université Saint-
the stargazers, a magnificent Deep Anne’s satellite campus in Tusket.
Sky Eye Observatory is located in École secondaire de Par-en-Bas,
Quinan. The Municipality of the École Wedgeport, École Belleville,
District Argyle is included in the and École Pubnico-Ouest are
UNESCO Dark Sky Reserve. all francophone schools while
Western Region Welcome Home I 25Municipality of Barrington The MUNICIPALITY OF THE DISTRICT OF BARRINGTON sits along the shoreline on Nova Scotia’s southernmost tip. The ‘lobster capital of Canada’ boasts conveniences like supermarkets, gas stations, restaurants, high-speed internet, festivals and recreation facilities in a welcoming, rural setting. Seafood connoisseurs will feel right at home at any of the small roadside take-outs or dine-in restaurants that serve only the freshest seafood and lobster. Reach the Municipality of Barrington by traveling along the scenic ‘old’ Highway 309, Highway 3, or Highway 3 via Highway 103. The drive along Highway 3 will reveal rugged coastline, breathtaking ocean scenes and views of quaint fishing communities along the way. All Photos: Municipality of the District of Barrington You’ll find working waterfronts and wharves throughout the Municipality, district close to a number of tables, boardwalks and washrooms including Shag Harbour, Wood’s ports as well as Highway 103. maintained by the province’s Harbour, and Stoney Island. Snap Opportunities exist for businesses Department of Lands & Forestry. artistic photos of world-famous to capitalize on spin-off prospects The Municipality takes care of Cape Island fishing boats (locally related to lobster and other fisheries. a number of beaches in the area known as a Cape Islander) dotting The Municipality of the District including Stoney Island, The Hawk, the wharves. The lucrative of Barrington offers an exceptional Daniel’s Head (South Side) and North fishing industry drives the quality of life for those who East Point. Pack a picnic lunch and Municipality’s economy. enjoy the great outdoors. make a day of splashing in clear, crisp The Municipality also boasts For beach enthusiasts, Sand Hills waves or lounging in the hot sand. a newly developed Business Provincial Park features a white sand Barrington has a long, storied Park located in the business beach with amenities like picnic history in timber sports and log- 26 I Western Region Welcome Home
barringtonmunicipality.com
Barrington Woolen Mill
North East Point Beach, Cape Sable Island Causeway Drowned Forest, The Hawk Beach
rolling. The Barrington River was once call the Municipality home. ‘ERMES’), Forest Ridge Academy, and
used for log driving, sending logs There are five schools within the Guiding Light Christian Academy.
down the river to be milled in large Municipality. Barrington Municipal The Municipality of the District
part for the shipbuilding industry High School, Clark’s Harbour of Barrington is perfect for
in the province. Generations of log Elementary, Evelyn Richardson those seeking a high quality of
rollers and timber sports athletes Elementary (better known as life in an affordable setting.
Western Region Welcome Home I 27Yarmouth Waterfront | Photo: Yarmouth & Acadian Shores Tourism Association (YASTA) 28 I Western Region Welcome Home
HOUSING IN THE WESTERN REGION
BY GLOBAL, national and even
provincial standards, homes in the
Western Region are considered very
affordable with a wide variety of
options, styles and locations. There
are also homes and apartments for
rent in the area, if home ownership
isn’t an option. Styles range from
single- and multi-family modern
buildings to historic homes built
during the Age of Sail. The decision Yarmouth Heritage District | Photo: YASTA
to live within the town limits of
Digby or Yarmouth, or in the country coordinates homes to be viewed, cabins that provide an opportunity to
depends on your work and the kind whether privately or publicly listed. enjoy hunting, fishing and riding ATVs.
of life you want to lead. No matter Curious to see your buying options?
where you choose to live, your daily Have a look online, or head out for a
DEED TRANSFER TAX
commute will normally be no longer drive to see what might work for you.
When you buy a house or land in
than a few songs on your playlist. Nova Scotia, you’re subject to land
TYPES OF HOME HEATING transfer tax, which is due upon
LOOKING TO BUY? CONNECT The most common heating options closing. In the Western Region, the
WITH A REALTOR for your home are electric, wood or rate is set and collected by your
We have many reputable and oil heating. There are also options for municipal unit, and the current rate
knowledgeable realtors in our propane gas heating and solar energy. is between 0.5% to 1.25% of the
community who would be value of the property transferred.
delighted to work with you to COTTAGE, LAKE AND CAMP LIFE
find your dream home. Given our proximity to the ocean and
SHORT-TERM ACCOMMODATIONS
You can visit realtor.ca or many lakes, cottages are a popular
The Western Region is home to a
Viewpoint to look at current listings, way of life for many. Many people in
variety of hotels, motels, bed and
find a realtor or explore mortgage the Western Region will head to their
breakfasts and inns, in addition to
calculations. Local individual real camps and cottages for the summer
private online listings such as AirBnB.
estate businesses and companies season, although some also enjoy
have their own listings and tools a quick trip to the cottage so much Tourism Nova Scotia also offers
to support you in finding your next that they’ve opted to winterize their a free reservation/booking service
home. Traditionally, more purchasers lake dwellings. Camps can range by calling toll-free 1-800-565-0000
choose to work with one realtor who from opulent lakeside homes to rustic or visiting novascotia.com
Western Region Welcome Home I 29SAFETY, FIRST RESPONDERS, EMERGENC
THE WESTERN REGION is YARMOUTH AND DIGBY EHS (EMERGENCY
considered a safe place to live, with HOSPITAL EMERGENCY HEALTH SERVICES)
limited crime. We’re protected by Emergency In Nova Scotia, EHS provides
the RCMP and by the dedicated departments (EDs) emergency response via ground
first responders and emergency and their staff are ambulance and the Life Flight
professionals in our community. an essential part of helicopter and fixed-wing aircraft.
the province’s health
care system, quickly assessing and ROYAL CANADIAN MOUNTED
FIREFIGHTERS
managing patients with unexpected POLICE (RCMP)
Fire and rescue services are
illness or injury. The emergency For nearly 150 years, the RCMP has
provided by the 36 fire departments
rooms at the Yarmouth Regional been Canada’s national police service.
throughout the Western Region.
Hospital (60 Vancouver Street) In the Western Region, there are
Our fire halls are also a gathering
and Digby General Hospital (75 five RCMP detachments: Barrington
place for community events, which
Warwick Street) provide 24/7 (2486 Highway 3), Yarmouth
take place throughout the year. In
access to emergency services. Rural (156 Starrs Road), Yarmouth
some circumstances, we also rely
Municipal (233 Water Street),
on the Yarmouth County Ground
EMERGENCY Meteghan (60 Meteghan Connector
Search and Rescue, Barrington
MANAGEMENT OFFICE Road) and Digby (129 Victoria
Ground Search and Rescue, Clare
The provincial Emergency Street). These detachments are
Ground Search and Rescue and
Management Office (EMO) is responsible for policing throughout
Digby Ground Search and Rescue.
responsible for emergency planning the entire region, including Acadia
and coordinating emergency First Nation, Bear River First Nation
responses. The office works with and on our rural roads and highways.
municipal authorities to help
plan for emergencies, coordinate
EMERGENCY - 911
provincial resources when there
If your health, safety or
is an emergency and help with
property is threatened
analysis and evaluation after an
and you need help right
emergency. They also administer the
away, call 911. The 911
provincial emergency 911 service.
operator will notify
emergency responders
REGIONAL EMERGENCY
MANAGEMENT ORGANIZATIONS such as fire, police or ambulance.
Digby and Yarmouth counties deliver 911 operators have access to
essential services to all residents interpreters in more than 170
during emergency situations. languages.
30 I Western Region Welcome HomeCY
For text with 911 service (for those hours a day, seven days a week to and referral service that can connect
with hearing or speech impairments), provide reassurance and information you to thousands of programs and
ensure your cell phone is compatible on general issues and questions. services offered by local community
with the service and register your Health information and advice groups, nonprofits and government
cell phone number with your may include self-care at home departments across Nova Scotia. It’s
wireless provider. You also need to or a recommendation to see available throughout the province
ensure you have a cell phone that’s a care provider or visit a local 24 hours a day, 365 days a year by
compatible with 9-1-1 Service Text. emergency department. dialing 211 to speak with a helpful
Callers may also get information staff member, by searching the
HEALTH CARE QUESTIONS - 811 about health-related services easy-to-use online database at
Nova Scotians available in their community. ns.211.ca or by texting 211 Monday
may access Services are available in more than to Friday, from 9 am to 6 pm)
health 125 languages, including French,
information and advice by calling Farsi, Cantonese and Arabic. WEATHER UPDATES AND
811. The service is available for For more information about ROAD CONDITIONS - 511
non-urgent, health-related issues 811, visit 811.novascotia.ca For up-to-date road
and questions, and can help with conditions in Nova
advice on everything from bee stings Scotia, dial 511 or visit
PROVINCIAL SERVICES
and frostbite to coughs and flu. & PROGRAMS - 211 511.novascotia.ca for maps and
Registered nurses are available 24 211 is a free, confidential information access to real-time highway cameras.
SLOW DOWN,
MOVE OVER LAW
In Nova Scotia, if you see an emergency vehicle pulled over with its lights
SLOW flashing, slow down to 60 km/h or obey the speed limit if it’s lower than
60 km/h. If you’re on a road with two or more lanes in your direction,
you must move into the lane farthest away from the stopped vehicle if
you can do so safely. You don’t need to slow down or move over if the
vehicle is on the other side of the median on a divided highway.
This law has been updated to include public safety officers and tow
truck drivers as well as emergency personnel, conservation officers
and motor vehicle inspectors.
Western Region Welcome Home I 31HEALTH CARE Photo: Fernando Zhiminaicela NOVA SCOTIA HEALTH provides Street) and the Digby General and Area Community Health Clinic, publicly funded health services to Hospital (75 Warwick Street), Digby and Area Health Services Nova Scotians and some specialized our primary health facilities, as Centre, Islands Health Centre, services to Maritimers and Atlantic well as other businesses and Clare Health Centre, Harbour South Canadians. The health authority organizations in the community. Medical Clinic, A.M. Clark Health operates hospitals, health centres Centre, Barrington Community and community-based programs Health Centre and traditional family across the province. PRIMARY HEALTH CARE medicine practices throughout our In the Western Region, services The Western Region has both communities. We also have the are delivered through the Yarmouth established collaborative care unique opportunity to partner with Regional Hospital (60 Vancouver practices including the Bear River the Acadia First Nation and Bear 32 I Western Region Welcome Home
River First Nation health centres to help
address the health care needs within
our First Nation communities. There
are also services for Mental Health and
Addictions, Blood Collection and Public
Health in the community. Other areas
related to health care such as hearing
services, therapeutic services, natural
healing, respiratory care and more, are
available throughout the area.
Photo: Yarmouth Regional Hospital
YARMOUTH
REGIONAL HOSPITAL
The Yarmouth Regional Hospital, located at 60 Vancouver Street in
Yarmouth, is the regional acute care facility serving 58,000 people
in Shelburne, Yarmouth and Digby counties. It offers primary and
secondary services through inpatient, outpatient and community-
based services and programs.
The services include:
Anesthesiology Ophthalmology
Emergency Medicine Orthopedics
Family Medicine Palliative Care
General Surgery Pediatrics
Internal Medicine Psychiatry
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Western Region Welcome Home I 33HEALTH CARE
PASSIONATE ABOUT
HEALTH CARE? VOLUNTEER
WITH A COMMUNITY
HEALTH BOARD (CHB)
Community Health Boards are
committed groups of volunteers
who are the eyes, ears and voices
of the community and its residents,
working together with the NSHA
to improve the health of their
communities. In the Western Region,
there are four CHBs: Digby and
Area Community Health Board,
Clare Community Health Board,
Yarmouth County Community
Health Board and Shelburne County
Community Health Board. Learn more
at communityhealthboards. ns.ca/
wester-zone-1
OUR HEALTH Yarmouth Regional Hospital | Photo: Yarmouth Regional Hospital
FOUNDATIONS
infant ventilators and incubators, throughout the Western Region every
YARMOUTH HOSPITAL
laparoscopic suites, lab equipment, year. In March 2021, an anonymous
FOUNDATION
renal dialysis equipment and donor gifted $22 million to the
The Yarmouth Hospital Foundation upgrades to the cardiology, cancer Yarmouth Hospital Foundation.
was established in 1970 to provide and wellness centres. Through its For more information
a way for people to support the annual appeals and signature events, or to get involved, visit
Yarmouth Regional Hospital the Yarmouth Hospital Foundation yarmouthhospitalfoundation.ca
and improve health care. strives to provide continued support
YHF fundraising has contributed in and financial assistance toward DIGBY AND AREA HEALTH
excess of $390,000 annually towards the purchase of equipment and SERVICE CHARITABLE
equipment such as MRI, CT scan, services that improves the health and FOUNDATION
portable x-ray and ultrasound units, wellness of families and individuals The Digby and Area Health Service
34 I Western Region Welcome HomeNEED A
FAMILY PRACTICE
REGISTRY
Photo: Municipality of Clare
The Need a Family Practice Registry is a provincial
list for people without a family doctor or nurse
practitioner. You can register by calling 811 or by
visiting needafamilypractice.nshealth.ca. Once
you’ve registered, you’ll be added to the list. When a
Charitable Foundation was formed primary care provider in your area is accepting new
as a trust to manage funds for the
patients, Nova Scotia Health will contact you by
purpose of maintaining present and
future health services within the phone and/or email. They may also contact you
Digby area. Donations to the DAHSCF occasionally to update your personal information, or
have helped purchase ultrasound
to confirm that you need to remain on the registry,
units, a stress test machine, cardiac
monitoring system, defibrillators, an Nova Scotians may access health information
x-ray machine and an infant warmer.
and advice by dialing 811 where registered nurses
For more information
or to get involved, visit are available 24/7. For more important numbers
digbyhospitalfoundation.ca see page 31.EDUCATION AND SCHOOLS
SCHOOLS in the Western Region bus doesn’t already pick students in March, where there is often a
belong to the Tri County Regional up near you. variety of programming, camps and
Centre for Education, which serves There are supports and other opportunities for students to
Digby, Yarmouth and Shelburne opportunities available to address participate within the community.
counties, and the Conseil scolaire differences in learning for students
acadien provincial, which includes all PRE-PRIMARY
with a wide range of special needs.
Acadian French-language schools. Nova Scotia offers a pre-primary
Service is provided to schools on
There are 18 English-language program in English and French for
a “needs” basis, within available
schools in the area: two P-12 schools, four-year-olds in the province to
resources, and can be discussed
11 elementary schools, one junior high help transition them to Primary the
directly with the schools.
school and four high schools. following year. Program details,
For more information, visit
requirements and FAQs can be
There are seven French-language tcrce.ca and csap.ca
found at ednet.ns.ca/pre-primary
schools: five elementary schools and
two high schools. SCHOOL DAYS FRENCH PROGRAMS
Most students in the Western The school year runs from early- The Conseil scolaire acadien
region take the bus to school. September through to the end of provincial (CSAP) is the only French-
School buses run throughout our June with scheduled breaks over language school board in Nova
communities and pick students the December holidays, observance Scotia. It’s responsible for French as
up near their homes. Contact your of other holidays and in-service a first language education across the
local school to arrange a stop if the days. There is a break for one week province. Students whose parents
36 I Western Region Welcome Homespeak French as a first language INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE community college – the Nova Scotia
or attended a French elementary (IB) DIPLOMA PROGRAM Community College (NSCC).
school can attend CSAP schools, and The IB Diploma Program is a rigorous There is one French-language
students who have neither English nor pre-university course of studies university in the Western Region –
French as a first language can also designed for students aged 16 to 19 Université Sainte-Anne, located in
attend CSAP schools. delivered over the last two years of Church Point. Université Sainte-Anne
• CORE FRENCH is a compulsory a student’s schooling (Grades 11 and offers many university-level programs
course for all students in Nova Scotia 12 in Nova Scotia). In the Western as well as college-level diploma
from Grades 4 to 9. There are also Region, this is offered at Yarmouth programs. It has two faculties and one
optional French programs, including: Consolidated Memorial High School. school: Faculty of Arts and Sciences,
• INTENSIVE FRENCH is an In Nova Scotia, all IB Diploma Faculty of Professional Programs
alternative way of offering Core
schools
French that involves concentrated
have open
learning time spent in French for five
admission.
months of the school year.
While students
Available in Grade 6 at Maple Grove
who are
Education Centre (Hebron).
considering
• EARLY IMMERSION: Grade enrolling in the
Primary entry point (approximately IB Diploma
80% of learning time is in French).
Program are
Available at Digby Elementary advised to take
School, Weymouth Consolidated pre-IB courses
School, Meadowfields Community in Grade 10, it
School (Yarmouth), Yarmouth isn’t required.
Elementary School, Plymouth School
Students
and Drumlin Heights Consolidated
who are
School (Glenwood). and the French Immersion School. In
interested in the IB Diploma
• LATE IMMERSION: Grade 7 entry addition to the main campus in Church
Program should consult with the
point (approximately 70% of learning Point, students can take courses
IB Coordinator.
time is in French). through the university in Tusket.
Available at Maple Grove Education POST-SECONDARY EDUCATION The Western Region is also home
Centre (Hebron) and Barrington Post-secondary education in Nova to the NSCC’s Burridge Campus in
Municipal High School. Scotia is delivered through 10 Yarmouth and the Digby Learning
More details are available at tcrce. publicly supported degree-granting Centre. Both offer full-time programs
ca/french-programming institutions and one province-wide and continuing education.
Western Region Welcome Home I 37CHILD CARE
Word of mouth is a powerful
tool here! Many parents find
great babysitter referrals through
neighbours, friends, coworkers or
social media. Courses or certifications
aren’t required for babysitting jobs,
but are helpful to some, especially
teenagers looking to earn some
extra income while spending time
caring for children in the community.
Many municipal units facilitate
babysitting courses as well.
Photo: gpointstudio
FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRES
FINDING A PERSON or group of There’s also a variety of preschools The Family Centre in Digby, Parents’
people who you can trust to look throughout the region to prepare Place in Yarmouth and Le Centre
after your child is a big decision. your child for school. Most of these provincial de ressources prescolaires
Here in the Western Region, we go up to four years of age, since in Church Point deliver free
have all kinds of wonderful, caring children attend the province-wide programs and services to families
and professional child care providers Pre-Primary Program after preschool. with children ages 0-6, as well as
to help you and your family. offering prenatal support to pregnant
You may hear the term Early
Regulated child care is licensed women throughout the region.
Childhood Educator or ECE. ECEs are
through the Government of Nova certified child care providers who
Scotia and administered through
have completed a four-year degree
registered day care organizations.
or two-year diploma program, and
The Western Region is home
can be found in various day cares.
TIP
to several privately-run French
They also administer the pre- Depending on your child’s age
and English day care businesses.
primary program in our schools. and your day care of choice,
Options are also available for in-
home care for infants, toddlers and When the school bell rings, there there may be a wait list for
after-school care for school-aged are many after-school care options
placement. We recommend
children. Many day cares offer flexible to choose from, whether in day care
looking into child care as
hours, which is especially welcome settings, in private homes, within
by parents or guardians requiring local non-profits, or programming one of your priorities when
early drop-offs or late pick-ups. provided by our municipalities. considering a relocation.
38 I Western Region Welcome HomeGETTING AROUND THE REGION
MOST PEOPLE in the Western Region
rely on a personal vehicle for travel. All
crosswalks do not. Vehicles must yield to
pedestrians in both marked and unmarked
CONNECTIONS
towns and communities offer parking and crosswalks and pedestrians should use
taxi services are available throughout the marked crosswalks when available. In just a few hours’, you can find yourself in
region. There’s also a variety of car deal- On rural roads without sidewalks, another province or even another country.
erships, car rentals and mechanics in the pedestrians must walk on the extreme left
community ready to serve you and your side of the roadway or on the shoulder of
motor vehicle needs. the road, facing traffic approaching from FERRY TO MAINE The ferry terminal in
the opposite direction.
Yarmouth is the Canadian port of the ferry
ACCESS NOVA SCOTIA
CYCLING that travels between Nova Scotia and Maine,
The Registry of Motor Vehicles is locat-
ed at Access Nova Scotia in Digby (338 Bicycles are allowed on all roads in USA during the summer season.
Highway 303) and Yarmouth (10 Starrs Nova Scotia unless otherwise posted,
https://www.ferries.ca/
Road, Suite 127). Staff can help you with and cyclists must follow the same law
items like driver’s licenses, written and as motor vehicles.
road tests and vehicle and plate registra- The one-metre rule applies: motorists FERRY TO NEW BRUNSWICK Digby has a
tion. They’re open Monday to Friday, 8:30 must leave at least one metre (three
ferry that travels to Saint John, New Brunswick
am to 4:30 pm and evening hours Tuesday feet) of space when passing a cyclist on
to Thursday, 4:30 pm to 7 pm (except hol- the road. year-round. The crossing takes less than three
idays). Many of these services can also be hours. https://www.ferries.ca/
accessed online: novascotia.ca/sns/rmv
PUBLIC TRANSIT
ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION YARMOUTH INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Walking/running – Many people walk or KINGS TRANSIT is a public transit
(YQI) doesn’t currently operate any commercial
run on the sidewalks or trails. service that offers service between
Weymouth and Cornwallis, through flights, but it is a fully operational airport that can
PEDESTRIAN SAFETY the Annapolis Valley to Wolfville. For accommodate chartered and private aircraft.
Both drivers and pedestrians are responsi- more information, visit kbus.ca or call
ble for crosswalk safety. Crosswalks exist 902-678-7310.
at every intersection. Marked crosswalks
HALIFAX STANFIELD INTERNATIONAL
have painted white lines and unmarked TOWN OF YARMOUTH TRANSIT runs AIRPORT (YHZ) is a three-hour drive from
using a flag stop system where you can
choose to board and depart the bus at most of the Western Region and is Atlantic
designated stops, or by creating your own Canada’s principal full-service airport providing
DID YOU KNOW? flag stop. One-fare tickets are $1.50 and
passengers and cargo clients with access to
There are free electric monthly passes are $50. For maps and
charging stations located in schedules, visit townofyarmouth.ca/ markets across the globe.
Tusket, Yarmouth, Church transit-service.html
Point, Weymouth, Digby LE TRANSPORT DE CLARE offers pre- SHUTTLE SERVICES are available, offering daily
and Bear River, as well as booked door-to-door transportation and round-trip service from the Western Region to
pay-for-service electric charter transportation throughout Digby
Halifax – picking you up and dropping you off at
charging stations in County. For more information visit trans-
Yarmouth and Digby. portdeclare.ca or call 1-888-769-2477. your preferred departure and arrival locations.
Western Region Welcome Home I 39LEVELS OF GOVERNMENT
Canada has three levels of government
FEDERAL GOVERNMENT
The Prime Minister leads the federal government We are in the federal riding of West Nova, except for the
based in Ottawa. It deals with national and Municipality of Barrington, which falls in the federal riding
international matters, such as: of South Shore-St Margarets, and we are represented by a
• Mail • Telephones Member of Parliament (MP) for each federal riding.
• Taxes • Criminal law
• Money • Foreign affairs SERVICE CANADA is located at 13 Willow Street in
• Banking • National defence Yarmouth (French and English) and 98 Sydney Street
• Shipping • Employment insurance in Digby (English only).
• Railways • Aboriginal lands and rights Service Canada provides Canadians with a single point
• Pipelines
of access to a wide range of government services and
Government of Canada website: canada.ca benefits through the Internet, by telephone or by mail.
PROVINCIAL AND TERRITORIAL GOVERNMENTS
A Premier leads each province and territory. ACCESS NOVA SCOTIA is located in Digby (338 Highway
The provincial and territorial governments have the power 303) and Yarmouth (10 Starrs Road, Suite 127) and
to change their laws and manage their own public lands. provides in-person access to provincial services ranging
They are in charge of: from things such as obtaining your driver’s license and
• Education • Health care • Road regulations permits to information on land and property. A full list of
services, including what services you can easily access
The Western Region includes five provincial electoral online are available at novascotia.ca/sns/access/
districts: Digby-Annapolis, Clare, Yarmouth, Argyle Government of Nova Scotia website: novascotia.ca
and Shelburne, each represented by a Member of
the Legislative Assembly (MLA). To learn about how
government works and to find out how to contact
your MLA, visit nslegislature.ca/members
MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENTS FIRST NATION GOVERNANCE
Mayors and wardens lead municipal governments. First Nation communities in Canada are each governed
They are in charge of such things as: by an elected Chief and Band Council. To learn more,
see page 22.
• Parks • Local land use
• Parking • Fire protection
• Libraries • Public transportation
• Roadways • Community water systems DID YOU KNOW?
In the Western Region, we have seven municipal units: Canada is a constitutional monarchy. This
Town of Digby, Municipality of Digby, Municipality of Clare, means the Queen or King of England is the
Municipality of Yarmouth, Town of Yarmouth, Municipality
head of state and the Prime Minister is the
of Argyle, Municipality of Barrington. To learn more about
each municipal units, check out pages 10-26. head of government. The monarch is personally
represented by the Governor General of Canada.
40 I Western Region Welcome HomeBILLS AND UTILITIES DID YOU KNOW?
When purchasing a home, you
can request to see a history of
the utilities payments to include
that in your decision-making.
Some of the services, costs and monthly bills
you may have when moving to or living in the Western Region.
WASTE MANAGEMENT
This is managed through Waste Check throughout the region, except for the Municipality
of Barrington which manages its own waste, with waste management fees administered
through each municipal unit. See page 42 for more information and helpful tips.
WATER AND SEWER
This is managed through each municipal unit. If you’re in a rural area, you may rely on
your own well water and septic system.
INSURANCE
Insurance is required for all drivers in our province, however the types of insurance do vary.
In addition, it’s highly recommended that you also secure insurance for your home and your
belongings, which is referred to as Contents or Tenants Insurance.
ELECTRICITY AND HEATING
In Nova Scotia, we have one electric utility, Nova Scotia Power, an Emera Company.
Electric heating is one popular source of heating, in addition to oil, gas and wood heating.
There are many local providers for oil, gas and firewood, and the source of heating for
your home might be something you wish to consider when purchasing or renting a home,
as each require maintenance and different costs.
CABLE AND INTERNET
Cable and internet are available from a variety of providers in our area, the largest being
Bell Aliant and Eastlink and other local options such as Mainland Telecom, City Wide
Communications and Xplornet. It’s recommended that you do your research to ensure
that service can be provided to your area of choice.
Western Region Welcome Home I 41You can also read
