The Joggins Fossil Institute curator expressed concern over a 20% reduction in provincial funding, stating it will severely impact operations and necessitate the cancellation of educational programs benefiting hundreds of students annually. The institute, managing the Joggins Fossil Cliffs UNESCO World Heritage Site and the Joggins Fossil Centre in Cumberland County, faces a significant setback with the funding cut.

Jade Atkins, the curator and director of science and research at the institute, emphasized the detrimental effects of the $55,000 decrease in the annual operating grant from $275,000 to $220,000. This reduction, part of broader cuts to the Department of Communities, Culture, Tourism, and Heritage, is lower than the initial $250,000 grant received upon UNESCO designation in 2008.

The institute, operating with a core team of four permanent employees and hiring about 10 seasonal staff from May to October, will particularly suffer losses in outreach programs delivering science education to schools and community events in Cumberland County. The curator highlighted the institute’s existing challenges with rising costs and deferred maintenance, including issues with the heating system and the beach access stairs due to the Bay of Fundy tides.

Acknowledging the economic importance of tourism to Nova Scotia, the institute emphasized that Joggins Fossil Cliffs is a top attraction, contributing significantly to the province’s economy. Atkins expressed concerns that the funding cuts may impede future fossil research in the region, potentially requiring important fossils to be studied elsewhere.

Despite the uncertainties, Atkins remains hopeful and plans to engage with local representatives to advocate for the restoration of the institute’s funding. She urged supporters to contact relevant officials to support the institute’s cause as budget decisions are finalized.