Opinions, history, and research-based factors

Letter to the Editor by L. K. Navitsky 

The Oran - Nov. 4, 2025

Dear Editor,

In the last two or three months The Oran has been inundated with letters opposing the golf course development in Mabou Beach Provincial Park.

The writings include opinion and history and research- based factors about the park. Environmental studies done several years ago showed that there are at least fifteen species that should be protected within the boundaries of the provincial park. These studies led to the creation of the park in the first place, and helped to rebuff two previous attempts by Cabot to acquire this land to build a third golf course. Local residents have mounted another vigorous attempt to save the protected area.

It is very interesting that there has been no debate from the other side published in this newspaper. Vague assumptions about job creation are tossed around without mentioning the seasonal nature of these jobs, nor of the fact that they are relatively low wage employment, hardly known as a "living" wage.

The Cabot web page features an 2018 Audubon Certified Cooperative Sanctuary for golf certification. According to its website one of the criteria is based on "wildlife and habitat management." This might change should Cabot opt build a golf course on West Mabou Beach, a protected habitat for piping plovers.

Those opposed to the Cabot takeover of the Provincial Park point out that there are other areas where a golf course could be built, even ones which could have support from the community. Being a good neighbor has to start with acknowledging the stakes of your neighbors, something the Cabot folks have definitely not considered.

Sincerely,

L. K. Navitsky 

Mabou