Community News

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Published: 25 April 2025

As per the Nova Scotia Accessibility Act, the Regional Accessibility Committee, in collaboration with the project consultant, Left Turn Right Turn Ltd., and regional partners (Village of Bible Hill, Municipality of the County of Colchester, Town of Stewiacke, and Village of Tatamagouche), has completed a comprehensive review and update of the 2022 Regional Accessibility Plan.

The proposed plan was reviewed by the Regional Accessibility Committee during its February 27th meeting, and was subsequently presented by the consultant to involved Councils and Commissions during a regional meeting held virtually on March 10th.

All participating municipalities and villages have expressed support for the adoption of the updated Regional Accessibility Plan as presented.

Approved by Town of Truro Council on April 7, 2025. 

A copy of the plan can be found here: https://truro.ca/regional-accessibility-plan.html

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Published: 22 April 2025

We’re excited to share that the Province of Nova Scotia has committed an additional $250,000 toward the development of the No. 2 Construction Battalion Athletic Facility and the brand new Jamie Shephard Playground!

This funding will help bring to life a space that’s not only rooted in legacy and community pride, but designed with accessibility and inclusivity at its core.

The playground will feature CSA-compliant accessible surfacing with certified wood fibre footing. We're also exploring options like pour-in-place rubber, and even natural or artificial turf for enhanced play experiences.

We’re working toward a space that includes:
• Wide, accessible walkways
• Fencing for safety
• Inclusive play features
• Engagement with youth to ensure the design reflects their needs and voices

This is more than a playground, it’s an investment in our youth, and a space where everyone belongs.

Thank you to Minister Ritcey, and the Province of Nova Scotia for their continued support and commitment to the No.2 Construction Battalion Athletic Facility and inclusive community spaces.

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Published: 09 April 2025

Protecting Victoria Park’s Hemlocks from Invasive Threat

Truro, NS – April 9, 2025 – To safeguard Victoria Park’s hemlock tree population from the risk of the invasive Hemlock Woolly Adelgid (HWA), the Town of Truro is adopting an early intervention strategy that includes increased monitoring and surveys. Additionally, a chemical treatment program will be implemented to protect at-risk trees, with plans to introduce biological controls as part of a long-term management approach in the future.

While HWA has not yet been detected in Victoria Park, experts believe it is only a matter of time before the infestation reaches the area. HWA is a small, aphid-like insect that feeds on hemlock sap, causing the decline and eventual death of affected trees. First identified in Nova Scotia in 2017, HWA has since spread to at least seven counties in the southwestern part of the province.

“Our hemlocks are an essential part of Victoria Park’s natural landscape and ecological health,” said Scott Holman, Victoria Park & Urban Forestry Supervisor of the Town of Truro. “By taking proactive measures now, we aim to preserve these trees for future generations and mitigate the impact of this invasive pest.”

Eastern hemlocks are a vital part of Nova Scotia’s old-growth forests, providing shade, stabilizing soil, and supporting diverse ecosystems. In Victoria Park, below Lepper Brook Dam, approximately 12,000 hemlock trees form ten distinct stands, playing a crucial role in maintaining the park’s ecological balance and character.

To help mitigate the risk of HWA entering Victoria Park, residents can take several actions. First, it's best to avoid infested areas, especially between April and July, when the pest is most active. It's also crucial not to move firewood, branches, or outdoor equipment between forests, as this can inadvertently spread the infestation. When visiting different forests, wear clean clothing and wash it after being in areas known to be infested with HWA. Additionally, we ask residents to avoid parking near or under hemlock trees, as the pest may be more prevalent in these areas. People should also place bird feeders away from hemlocks to reduce the likelihood of spreading the infestation.

Community members and visitors can help by learning to identify HWA and reporting any suspected sightings to the Town of Truro’s Park, Recreation and Culture Department at 902-893-6078 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Extensive information on HWA and the Town of Truro’s protection plan is available on the Town of Truro’s website at https://truro.ca/hemlock-woolly-adelgid-hwa.html

For more information, please contact:

Scott Holman Victoria Park & Urban Forestry Supervisor Town of Truro This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Public Information Session
The Town of Truro will host a Public Information Session on May 6th, 2025, to share details of the treatment plan and provide an opportunity for residents to ask questions about HWA and the steps being taken to protect Victoria Park.
More details on the session (location and time) will be shared on the Town of Truro social media pages.