Wildfires are a natural part of forest ecosystems, but increasingly dry conditions are making wildfires more frequent and intense in Nova Scotia. In summer 2025, Halifax experienced one of its driest summers on record, contributing to several high-intensity fires.

One of these fires occurred near Susie’s Lake within the Blue Mountain–Birch Cove Lakes Wilderness Area. The fire burned approximately 25–30 hectares over 14 days in an area that is part of a larger habitat that supports more than 150 bird species andthe endangered Mainland Moose.

The Young Naturalists Club saw an opportunity for our Nature Guardians youth to help understand how this forest is recovering. Post-fire changes can create or remove important habitat for species at risk, while also creating opportunities for invasive species to establish.

Through hands-on field research, Nature Guardians are surveying vegetation, observing birds, monitoring invasive species, collecting data, and documenting how the forest has changed one year after the fire. Results coming soon!