Hamilton, Jacqueline M., "A Framework to Inventory Cultural Landscapes in Rural Nova Scotia"

A comprehensive approach to heritage conservation is needed that recognizes landscapes of significant heritage value. In the face of development pressure, cultural resources are being increasingly threatened. Such losses are particularly problematic in Nova Scotia, as no process exists to identify, evaluate, protect and manage significant cultural landscapes. These losses, therefore, go unrecognized.

The first step towards conserving this resource is to document landscapes worth protecting. This thesis addresses this important first step by presenting a process for the identification of cultural landscapes in rural Nova Scotia. A three step framework is proposed, which is examined and tested within the rural community of Grand Pre in Kings County, Nova Scotia.

It is concluded that an identification framework must be a holistic approach to landscape conservation which recognizes the importance of value in cultural landscape inventory. This approach is also based on the recognition that cultural landscapes are distinctive within the broader regional context as well as at the local level. The proposed three step framework acknowledges the interrelatedness of elements in the cultural landscape and is based on an evaluation of existing approaches to cultural landscape inventory. The impetus to develop a three step approach is that no one methodology formally recognizes the need to examine the landscape from different perspectives - context, characteristics and value of the landscape. It is imperative that these landscape perspectives are thoroughly understood before any decisions are made regarding the protection of this resource.

The framework for the identification of cultural landscapes provides a format to initiate the important first step of examining and organizing landscapes in rural communities in Nova Scotia. The identification framework is one component of a larger program for the conservation of cultural landscapes. In order for this program to be effective, it must be undertaken in consultation with the community and implemented at the local level.

Atlantic Planners Institute

This page and all contents are produced by the Atlantic Planners Institute, an affiliate of the Canadian Institute of Planners.

This document was last modified on November 30, 2000.