'A sacred spot': why goldmining threatens Nova Scotia's 'wildest' river

Concern grows over proposal to open three mines along Nova Scotia's longest single waterway that supports both endangered species and ecosystems

The extractive industries have their sights set on Nova Scotia as a literal goldmine, and decades of conservation efforts - as well the future of a beloved river - hang in the balance.

Three years after Atlantic Gold opened a goldmine north-east of Halifax, the mining company intends to open three more across Nova Scotia. One of the mines has been proposed alongside the St Mary's River, Nova Scotia's longest single waterway - and in the opinions of many, its wildest, supporting both endangered species and ecosystems. This, the so-called Cochrane Hill goldmine, has become the focal point of mounting public opposition to goldmining in Nova Scotia.