Nova Scotia Ecological Science Atlas

The UNESCO Southwest Nova Biosphere Reserve Association partnered with Nova Scotia Community College Centre for Geographic Sciences to create a dynamic tool providing access to scientific information for educators, students, researchers, land managers and the public.
Nova Scotia Science Atlas - Aerial view of Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia Science Atlas
We invite you to explore the evolving “Nova Scotia Ecological Science Atlas” that features a wide range of ecological topics:
  • climate
  • geology
  • topography
  • freshwater
  • coastal/marine
  • forests
  • biodiversity
  • protected / special areas
  • agriculture
  • community
  • culture/history

Try zooming maps to see distinct levels of information and hyperlinked point data. Also check out ‘research’, ‘monitoring’ and ‘Inspire’ tabs for different ecological chapters.

If you are an educator, student or concerned property owner, and wonder about climate change monitoring activities and community response planning, the information is available using the Atlas.

Science Atlas, Turtle Island, Etuaptmumk
Science Atlas, Turtle Island, Etuaptmumk

Searchable university research thesis topics, maps and data prepared by governments and volunteer organizations can be explored to help understand ecological dynamics and study needs to support sound resource management.

The Atlas introduction features a Mi’kmaq perspective using the theme of “Learning” that complements the scientific research and amazing state of the art programming developed by a team of COGS faculty, students, and volunteers.

Enjoy exploring ecological science in Nova Scotia!

Nova Scotia Interactive Science Atlas

Nova Scotia Science Atlas LITE

Nova Scotia Interactive Science Atlas, LITE
Nova Scotia Interactive Science Atlas, LITE

“Atlas Lite” enables smartphones and laptop computers, with geolocation capability, to explore selected Nova Scotia maps.

For example, interested in seeing what forest types and tree species occur in your area?

Open ‘Atlas Lite,’

  • using top right tab, select ‘imagery’ as the base map.
  • then, select the second tab, to choose “forests” from several layer options.
  • the third tab shows the layer’s legend, if applicable.
  • then on the left tab, select the geolocation compass button to zoom to your location.
  • navigate the map using the touch screen to see forest stand descriptions.

Other thematic map layers include drainage basins and Crown Lands.

The pilot “Atlas Lite” application was developed at the NS Center of Geographic Sciences as part of the Southwest Nova Biosphere Reserve Association Ecological Science Atlas project. Funding was provided by the Natural Resources and Renewables and western Nova Scotia municipalities.

Nova Scotia Interactive Science Atlas LITE