The Death of Science Nova Scotia-style

Remember just last year Canadians' outrage at Stephen Harper's gagging of scientists?  Decision-based fact making vs. fact-based decision making?  Well, it would appear that it's happening right here right now in Nova Scotia. 

When Nova Scotia Environment ecologist Robert Cameron suggests in a public presentation that "the level of forest harvesting on the landscape is ecologically unsustainable," the associate deputy minister at the Department of Natural Resources, Allan Eddy,  complains to Cameron's superiors at Environment.  Under the subject line "Coordinated messaging," Eddy questions Cameron's science and says such "broad ranging and powerful statements" could be embarrassing for his Minister (Hines).  He calls for "a discussion on how best to ensure staff approach such issues with a more corporate consideration of potential impacts."  More corporate consideration, indeed.

Dogged investigative journalist Linda Pannozzo FOIPOPPED Eddy's correspondence and, in a brilliant piece still behind the Halifax Examiner paywall (you should subscribe - it's only $10!), she explains the issue, the disappearing Boreal Felt Lichen, and how that relates to another endangered species: the Nova Scotian scientist.

Note: Jack Pine has more information on Linda's piece in his Forest Notes  AND in case you missed them, this blog links to three other damning articles by Linda Pannozzo for the Halifax Examiner on the sick state of Nova Scotia's forestry.  Thanks for your excellent work, Linda!