National parks of Canada are protected natural spaces throughout the country that represent distinct geographical regions of the nation. Under the administration of Parks Canada, a government branch, national parks allow for public enjoyment without compromising the area for future generations, including the management of Canadian wildlife and habitat within the ecosystems of the park. There are two formal national parks in Nova Scotia, with one managed as a reserve.
Kejimkujik National Park - this park is composed of two sections. The main park is inland, with a seaside adjunct for day use only located near Liverpool.
A National Wildlife Area is a conservation status for a geographical region in Canada that restricts most human activities on that region. However, land use permits may be issued "for activities that are compatible with conservation". These areas are managed by the Canadian Wildlife Service.
Boot Island National Wildlife Area* (1.44 km2; 0.56 sq mi)
Chignecto National Wildlife Area* (4.10 km2; 1.58 sq mi)
John Lusby National Wildlife Area* (10.20 km2; 0.077 sq mi)
Sand Pond National Wildlife Area (5.32 km2; 2.05 sq mi)
Sea Wolf Island National Wildlife Area (0.41 km2; 0.16 sq mi)
Wallace Bay National Wildlife Area (5.83 km2; 2.25 sq mi)
As of January 2016[update] there were 68 wilderness areas in Nova Scotia.[2] They are regulated by the Wilderness Areas Protection Act under the responsibility of Nova Scotia Environment and are areas where resource extraction, development, use of vehicles and similar activities are prohibited. Hunting, trapping and fishing are permitted.[3]
As of January 2016[update] there were 70 nature reserves in Nova Scotia. They are ecological sites regulated by the Special Places Protection Act, an Act which also protects archaeological, historical and palaeontological sites. They are areas of special natural ecosystems, plant and animal species, features and natural processes. They are areas that provide educational or research field areas but where recreation is restricted.[4][5]