Founding of Friends of the Pugwash Estuary Stephen Leahey convenes a group including Ralph Thompson, Mary Jamieson, Vivian Godfree, Maureen Woodlock, Nellie Van de Wiel, John Caraberis, and Alice Power to establish FOPE, aiming to protect and preserve the Pugwash Estuary.

The Community Aquatic Monitoring Programme (CAMP) By-Catch Investigation examines unintended marine species caught during CAMP surveys, assessing their impact on local ecosystems. This initiative helps refine monitoring methods, support sustainable aquatic management, and enhance understanding of biodiversity in coastal waters.

The 2009 FOPE Culvert Project focused on assessing and improving fish passage in key waterways, ensuring that culverts did not obstruct aquatic species' movement. This initiative supported habitat connectivity and conservation efforts by enhancing water flow and fish migration routes.

The Adopt A Stream program, in collaboration with the Atlantic Salmon Federation, focused on habitat restoration in Patton Brook and Canfield Creek to improve conditions for Atlantic salmon and other aquatic species. Through this initiative, stream enhancements and conservation efforts helped restore natural water flow, stabilize banks, and support healthy fish populations.

FOPE partners with the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) to protect critical habitats within the Pugwash Estuary. Through this collaboration, NCC acquires 60 acres of ecologically significant land, ensuring long-term conservation of wetlands, salt marshes, and forested areas vital to local biodiversity. This milestone strengthens FOPE’s role in stewardship and expands protected areas within the estuary. Read the report: https://novascotia.ca/natr/wildlife/habfund/final12/NSHCF12_22_NCC_Protecting-Pugwash-Estuary.pdf

FOPE attains charitable status, expanding its ability to secure funding and strengthen conservation efforts. With the generous support of the community, FOPE also acquires Estuary House, establishing a dedicated space for environmental initiatives and stewardship.

FOPE renovates Estuary House, enhancing its sustainability and functionality by replacing asbestos siding with cedar, upgrading windows and doors, and installing a heat pump. These improvements transform the space into a welcoming hub for meetings, community activities, and environmental initiatives. Additionally, Estuary House now supports a research initiative and provides summer housing for researchers, fostering scientific study and conservation efforts in the region.

In honour of founding member Alice M. Power, FOPE, in partnership with the Communities Foundation of Nova Scotia, establishes the Alice M. Power Environmental Education Fund. This fund supports initiatives that promote environmental awareness, education, and conservation in her legacy.

Renowned Nova Scotia artist Tom Forrestall visits the Estuary for a two-day event. During this time he created four watercolours capturing the estuary's beauty and diversity. Limited edition, signed, numbered prints of these artworks are available to purchase to help support FOPE initiatives. Contact us to purchase yours. 

Book Launch for new release of A History of the Pugwash Estuary.  Those who were most responsible to bringing it to fruition came together to celebrate. Stephen Leahey had the idea and directed the process which included finding and hiring Skeena Lawson, the talented young historian from Mt. Allison.

FOPE, in partnership with the Nature Conservancy of Canada, developed the Pugwash Estuary Trail, a 3.5-kilometer scenic pathway designed to showcase the region’s natural beauty while providing educational opportunities. This trail enhances public access to the estuary, promoting environmental awareness, conservation, and outdoor recreation.

Before the official opening of the Pugwash Estuary Peace Trail, a Mi’kmaq smudging ceremony was held at Estuary House. Spiritual leaders Louise Goodwin (left) and Emile Gautreau led the ceremony, smudging those in attendance to mark the occasion with a sacred blessing.

Membership Growth The organization reports a membership increase to 163 individuals, reflecting growing community engagement

The Alice M. Power Scholarship is launched to support graduating students of Pugwash District High School who are pursuing post-secondary education with a passion for environmental stewardship. Named in honour of Alice M. Power’s dedication to conservation, the scholarship recognizes students committed to protecting and preserving the natural world. 

Stephen and Dennice Leahey are awarded Honourary Lifetime Memberships in recognition of their foundational contributions and ongoing dedication to FOPE’s mission.

Hurricane Fiona Recovery Following the devastation of Hurricane Fiona, FOPE leads community efforts to restore the Pugwash Estuary Trail, demonstrating resilience and commitment to conservation.

Eelgrass Restoration Project In collaboration with Community Eelgrass Restoration Initiative (CERI)  efforts were made to restore a vital marine habitat on Victoria Island at the mouth of the Pugwash Estuary.