Overview:
The Shubenacadie Canal Commission (SCC) is an external commission comprised of appointees from HRM, the Province of Nova Scotia, and the Municipalities of Colchester and East Hants.
Objectives/Functions:
The SCC works to restore, protect, and promote the historical, cultural, and natural heritage of the Shubenacadie Canal Waterway for all Nova Scotians, visitors, and future generations. To achieve its mission, the Commission pursues the following objectives:
- To carry out stabilization, preservation and restoration work to the locks and associated features including the dams, head ponds and channels.
- To promote and facilitate access and usage of the waterway by shallow draft watercraft.
- To provide park-like settings for residents and tourists.
- To provide enhanced visitor experience by delivering accessible and informative interpretation of the cultural, natural and recreational significance of the waterway.
Membership - Fifteen (15) members as follows:
- Four (4) residents of HRM appointed by the Regional Council
- Two (2) residents of the Municipality of East Hants
- One (1) appointed by the Governor in Council, and one (1) appointed by the Municipality of East Hants
- Two (2) residents of the County of Colchester
- One (1) appointed by Governor in Council, and one (1) appointed by the County of Colchester
- Seven (7) people appointed by the Governor in Council
Position(s) Available:
- Two (2) residents of Halifax Regional Municipality
Desired Skillsets:
The Commission is seeking applicants with skills and experience in the following:
Core Competencies
- Governance & Strategic Oversight: Experience with non-profit or public-sector boards, ability to understand policy, legislation, and fiduciary duties. Ability to help shape and monitor multi-year strategic priorities.
- Financial Stewardship: Skills in accounting, auditing, and business development.
- Legal & Risk Management: Knowledge of contracts, liability, safety, and regulatory compliance.
- Fundraising & Philanthropy: Experience with donor relations, sponsorship, grant writing, and fundraising strategies.
- Policy Development: Skills to oversee internal policies on volunteer safety, risk, HR, and financial management.
- Heritage & Environmental Stewardship: Understanding of heritage preservation, conservation, ecology, land use, climate change adaptation or/and waterway management.
- Community & Government Relations: Ability to liaise with municipalities, the Province, Mi’kmaq communities, and the public.
- Indigenous Knowledge & Relations: Cultural competency in working with Mi’kmaq communities, recognizing treaty rights, and partnership protocols.
- Infrastructure & Capital Projects: Practical skills in engineering, small construction projects, planning, or land management (relevant for locks, trails, docks, and boardwalks).
- Communications & Tourism: Skills in public relations and tourism promotion.
Desired Interests and Background
- Interest and/or experience in outdoor recreation (canoeing, kayaking, hiking, cycling, etc.).
- Interest and/or experience in heritage, interpretation, and public education.
- Interest in environmental issues (water quality, forestry, wildlife).
- Passion for the Waterway and its role in community history, recreation, and cultural identity.
- Ability to commit approximately five hours a month to committee work.
Length of Term:
- Two to three years, at the discretion of Regional Council
For more information visit the committee webpage at:https://www.halifax.ca/city-hall/boards-committees-commissions/s-z/shubenacadie-canal-commission
A cover letter or resume is requested with the submission of your application.
Deadline to Apply – Wednesday, November 26, 2025, at 11:59 p.m.
Apply Now – https://www.halifax.ca/form/boards-committees-volunteers