Debris to Design:
A Geopark Stewardship Project
Every day, marine debris washes up along the shores of the Cliffs of Fundy Geopark, carried by powerful tidal currents. This debris reaches us from across the entire eastern seaboard of North America and beyond. Buoys, microplastics, derelict fishing rope, and thousands of lobster bands make their way onto coastal shorelines, entangling in the driftwood and macroalgae left behind as the tide recedes.
In the early spring, the Cliffs of Fundy Geopark and Parrsboro Creative partnered on an initiative designed to highlight the volume of debris washing ashore and encourage residents and visitors to take notice. Thus, Debris to Design: A Geopark Stewardship Project was born. The project invited community members to collect found debris across Mi'kma'ki and transform it into unique designs that tell a story of environmental care and creative transformation.
As the idea gained momentum, we connected with Angela Riley, founder of Scotian Shores. Angela works tirelessly to restore shorelines across Nova Scotia, repurposing found debris into functional pieces like woven rope mats, bowls, sculptures, and jewelry. In May, Angela brought the Scotian Shores team to Advocate Harbour for a long-weekend cleanup at Driftwood Beach. With the dedicated help of volunteers, over 4,800 pounds of marine debris was removed—most of which was diverted from landfills for recycling and creative reuse.
In July, Angela returned with her family to facilitate two hands-on repurposing workshops. On July 6th, she guided a group of makers in crafting woven rope mats and bowls. On July 7th, she led youth of all ages in putting together creative designs using small plastics and found debris. Over 20 participants attended the sessions, eager to bring those newly learned skills into their showcase entries.
The project culminated in a public showcase at the Parrsboro Bandstand on August 1st. Local businesses generously contributed prizes to celebrate the participants' efforts, and five final designs were entered into the showcase.
Our youth category featured Ryleigh Taylor, who designed a vibrant piece entitled "Colorful Oyster" using rope and lobster bands. Ryleigh took home a Cliffs of Fundy bucket hat and a Bay of Fundy Colouring Book!
In the Adult Category:
3rd Place & Community Choice Award: Kevin Phinney earned 3rd place with his intricate cutlery sculpture, "Hummingbird". Kevin won a Parrsboro Plein Air Festival (PPAF) tote bag, a Parrsboro Creative membership, and a gift certificate to Harbour View Restaurant. His design also earned the public vote for the Community Choice Award, winning an additional gift certificate to Crossroads Co-op!
2nd Place: Tara Taylor took 2nd place with her design "Tea Time", crafted entirely from lobster bands. Tara won a PPAF tote bag, a Parrsboro Creative membership, a certificate for an oil change from Wheaton’s Irving, and a custom mug with a gift card from The Salty Spoon.
1st Place: First place was awarded to dedicated local steward Randy Corcoran, who crafted a striking sculpture built entirely from found marine debris. His winning piece is currently on display outside the Art Lab on Main Street in Parrsboro. Randy received a PPAF tote bag, a Parrsboro Creative membership, and a 1/2" Hammer Drill Set with a 40-piece bit set donated by Harrison’s Home Hardware.
We are deeply grateful to all of our participants, community partners, and local sponsors who made this project possible. Special thanks to Parrsboro Creative, Scotian Shores, Harrison’s Home Hardware, Crossroads Co-op, Wheaton’s Irving, Harbour View Restaurant, and The Salty Spoon for their support of community stewardship across the Geopark!
