Extreme drought threatens major fundraiser for two Cole Harbour charities
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Outdoor walk-a-thon planned for September depends on rainfall
Wednesday, August 20th, 2025, Cole Harbour, NS — Two local heritage organizations have once again joined forces to host “A Walk in the Park”, a family‑friendly walk‑a‑thon fundraiser, contributing a substantial boost to their operating budgets.
This year, however, extreme drought conditions and high fire risk threaten the event’s success. Scheduled for Saturday, September 20, the walk is currently on hold due to a province-wide ban on trail activities until October 15 — or until sufficient rain makes it safe to resume.
“This event isn’t just a fun day outdoors — it’s also a key annual fundraiser for both our organizations. We are hopeful that we will get the rain we need so we can gather on the trails in September,” says CHPTA Coordinator, Holly Woodill.
Launched in 2024, A Walk in the Park features trail routes from 1–13 km and engaging educational stations hosted by local organizations along the way. Organizers had planned to expand the event this year, building on its successful debut.
Operational costs continue to rise across the non‑profit sector, and both the Cole Harbour Rural Heritage Society (CHRHS) and the Cole Harbour Parks & Trails Association (CHPTA) need broader community backing to keep heritage programming and green spaces accessible to residents and visitors.
CHRHS, which operates the Cole Harbour Heritage Farm Museum, has offered programming and heritage education for over 50 years. CHPTA, founded with CHRHS support, is run entirely by volunteers and maintains key assets including Cole Harbour Heritage Park, the Salt Marsh Trail.
Event lead, Michael McFadden is the Secretary of CHRHS and CHPTA volunteer. “Together, we welcome over 220,000 visitors annually. Our two organizations are essential to preserving Cole Harbour’s cultural and natural heritage.”
Both organizations remain optimistic that rainfall will arrive in time for the September event and urge the public to help protect parks and neighbours by respecting current restrictions.
Mark your calendars and cross your fingers—walkers should bring a completed form or plan to fill one out on site on September 20. For more information, visit coleharbourfarmmuseum.ca and click on “events.”
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Event Lead
Michael McFadden, Secretary CHRHS, committee member for Walk in the Park
902-435-3952
Note to editors:
A Walk in the Park
Saturday, September 20th, 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Cole Harbour Heritage Park, 256 Bisset Road
More information: https://coleharbourfarmmuseum.ca/event/awitp-2025