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Preparing for Sea-Level Rise in Bay Bulls

Bay Bulls Harbour is the hub of economic activity in the community.

Preparing for Sea-Level Rise in Bay Bulls

The Bay Bulls Harbour is the hub of economic activity in the community, serving the fishing, shipping and tourism industries, as well as recreational users. In 2010, the harbour was significantly damaged by Hurricane Igor. The building on the wharf was destroyed and the wharf itself was damaged to the point where it was unable to carry heavy loads.

The Federal Government provided $4 million to fund a wharf reconstruction and harbour development project to repair the damage. Before the new wharf was designed, the community made the strategic decision to consider how they could adapt their harbour to withstand rising sea levels and increased storm activity.

The Bay Bulls Harbour Authority consulted with local fishermen, who noted how weather conditions and storm surges had intensified in the area in recent years. They also looked at reports of how sea levels are rising in the area, and took all of this into account when designing the new wharf.

The new wharf was unveiled in 2012. The changes to improve the resilience of the wharf included:

  • Building the wharf half a meter higher
  • Changing the direction of the wharf
  • Constructing a 1.5 metre breakwater

As a result of these changes, the smaller wharves and properties inside of the main wharf are now better protected and the entire area is better prepared for the rising sea levels and increased storm surges expected as a result of climate change.

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