A 151-year-old N.S. lighthouse has been moved away from a vanishing shoreline
The Walton Lighthouse, a historic landmark along the East Hants coastline, has recently been relocated to prevent it from falling victim to erosion. Built in 1873, the lighthouse has stood as a beacon for ships navigating the upper Bay of Fundy to Walton, making it the only surviving lighthouse in Hants County.
A recent study on coastal erosion along the Fundy shoreline revealed alarming erosion rates in the Walton area, averaging about half a meter per year. John Ogilvie, vice-president of the Walton Area Development Association, expressed long-standing concerns within the community regarding the lighthouse’s proximity to the eroding cliff. As a result, the municipality allocated $100,000 to facilitate the relocation of the lighthouse to a safer distance from the shoreline.
The meticulous move, which took place last week, involved shifting the lighthouse more than 45 meters from its original location. Ogilvie emphasized that this new positioning should ensure the lighthouse’s stability for years to come. He underscored the significance of the Walton harbour, highlighting its historical importance as the second busiest port in Nova Scotia during the mid-1900s. The lighthouse played a crucial role in guiding ships safely through the harbour until its decommissioning in the late 1970s.
Timothy Webster, a research scientist at Nova Scotia Community College and author of the coastal erosion study, warned of the increasing threat posed by erosion and climate change to coastal communities. He emphasized the need for proactive measures to address these risks, particularly in light of the potential impact of severe weather events like Hurricane Fiona.
The successful relocation of the Walton Lighthouse serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving our coastal heritage and taking proactive steps to protect it from the effects of erosion and climate change. As communities continue to grapple with these challenges, it is essential to prioritize the safeguarding of our coastal landmarks for future generations to enjoy.
