Nova Scotia Power works to understand and document locations of aboriginal significance.
A recent dam maintenance project on the Mersey River was accompanied by an important archaeological component. Archaeologists found numerous aboriginal settlement sites and thousands of artifacts, including numerous, perfectly-preserved arrowheads, spears and tools. Evidence found showed people living along the Mersey for as long as 10,000 years. This project was documented in the federal Department of Aboriginal Affairs video Wabanaki: People of the God. Nova Scotia Power worked closely with the Heritage Division of the Government of Nova Scotia, who are responsible for the administration of the Special Places Protection Act and the protection of cultural resources, the Office of Aboriginal Affairs and the Mi’kmaq community, for this important effort.
Future hydro system maintenance projects will continue to demonstrate sensitivity to possible sites of aboriginal significance.