More residents are feeling the effects of climate change, according to results from the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg's 2026 Annual Emergency and Climate Change Impact Survey.
The survey received 250 responses, nearly triple the number received in 2025, providing one of the clearest pictures yet of how climate-related events are affecting residents across the municipality.
Drought emerges as top concern
Drought was the most commonly reported climate-related impact, followed closely by property damage.
Among residents who reported drought impacts, nearly half experienced significantly reduced well water levels, while more than one in five reported their well had run completely dry.
Extreme weather events, wildfire risk, impacts on local wildlife and ecosystems, water and food security, and rising sea levels were also identified as key concerns.
"The survey confirms many of the challenges we've been hearing about from residents, particularly around drought, water security, and extreme weather," said Mayor Elspeth McLean-Wile. "The results help guide our decisions and strengthen the work we're already doing to support community resilience, environmental stewardship, and emergency preparedness."
While many respondents reported taking steps to prepare for climate-related impacts, financial constraints were identified as the biggest barrier to doing more.
Survey participants also expressed interest in practical, locally focused programs and information to help them prepare for future climate challenges.
Informing future action
The survey findings will help inform municipal planning and ongoing climate adaptation efforts, including support for energy-efficiency upgrades, water supply improvements, emergency preparedness initiatives, land conservation, coastal protection, and forest health programs.
The results will also help shape future climate action, public education, and community support initiatives as the Municipality continues work under its Local Climate Change Action Plan.
The report is available on the Engage MODL website here: https://engage.modl.ca/46075/widgets/200815/documents/171744
-30-