Safety Concerns Prompt Partial Closure of Two Wharfs in Hunts Point, Nova Scotia
The Department of Fisheries and Oceans plans to partially block two deteriorating wharfs in Hunts Point, Nova Scotia, restricting vehicle access ahead of the November 30 lobster season. Local officials warn the closures threaten the historic fishing community's operations and identity.
The Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) plans to partially block off two wharfs in Hunts Point, Nova Scotia, citing safety concerns over their deteriorated condition. The wharfs were originally built more than 60 years ago.
Fishers were informed about the closures in early September. Once barricades are installed, only pedestrian traffic will be permitted on the structures, restricting vehicle access used for loading and offloading equipment. Approximately 21 people work out of these wharfs, including fisher Adam Roach.
An initial survey completed in 2017 indicated the wharfs might last about a decade but required major repairs. A new survey subsequently resulted in advice telling people not to walk on the wharfs at all.
The restrictions arrive just before the start of the lobster season for Lobster Fishing Area 33, scheduled for November 30. DFO stated that the wharfs will remain accessible to homeport users on Dumping Day, with operational adjustments made to accommodate the barriers.
Michael Lunn, director of the Harbour Authority of Hunts Point, stated there is no nearby wharf with space for seven fishing vessels that provides easy access to fishing grounds.
Mayor Scott Christian criticized the federal government's approach, stating it moves fisheries away from smaller communities due to a lack of investment in government wharfs. Hunts Point is known as "Quaint Fishing Village 1788," and local officials and community members warn that the closures threaten the identity of the historic settlement.
DFO stated it is assessing long-term options, including eventual divestiture in accordance with Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat processes. The department also pointed to the Central Port Mouton project, announced under the Spring Economic Update 2026, which is expected to increase harbour capacity in the area.