July 23, 2026
The Shubenacadie Canal Commission has decided not to proceed with reconstructing the Lock 6 Marshland Boardwalk in Enfield following a comprehensive review of technical, environmental, and site-specific information.
The Marshland Boardwalk, originally constructed in 2019, was destroyed during the extreme flooding event of July 2023.
Following the flood, the Commission undertook an engineering assessment to evaluate reconstruction options and pursued funding opportunities to support a potential rebuild. Before construction began, however, the March 18, 2026 flood prompted the Commission to seek additional information. Damage to other infrastructure at the Lock 6 site raised questions about how the proposed Marshland Boardwalk would perform under similar flood conditions.
The Commission shared these observations with the consulting engineer, sought clarification on how they related to the proposed design, obtained environmental guidance, and further considered whether reconstructing the boardwalk represented the most appropriate long-term approach in a flood-prone area.
Following this review, the Commission determined that reconstruction was not the most appropriate long-term approach.
Lock 6 Park Remains Open
Visitors can continue to enjoy many of the features that make Lock 6 Park a unique destination, including:
the one-kilometre forest walking trail;
the woodland boardwalk and pedestrian bridge;
the historic remains of Lock 6;
interpretive panels highlighting the area's natural and cultural heritage; and
views of the Sipekne’katik (Shubenacadie) River and one of Nova Scotia's Treasured Wetlands.
The Commission remains committed to preserving, interpreting, and promoting the historic and natural features of Lock 6 Park while making responsible decisions about public infrastructure.