The three men who could be the next premier of Nova Scotia say it's time to update the law controlling government transparency. They're unwilling to commit to specific changes.

The shuffle comes after the province's labour, health and lands and forestry ministers resigned to take part in Nova Scotia's Liberal Leadership race. 

Iain Rankin has become the second candidate to declare his intention to run for the leadership.

An unknown quantity of the aging properties may be contaminated and in need of cleanup.

The 60-year-old, 45-foot-tall white spruce, donated by Desmond Waithe and Corina Saunders of Black Point, will soon be making its 1,100-kilometre trek to Boston.

Those appointed by Iain Rankin represent environmental groups, industry, the Mi'kmaq and academia.

Jamie Simpson cited six animal and plant species as examples - the mainland moose, Canada warbler, eastern wood pewee, wood turtle, ram's head lady's slipper and black ash.

Lands and Forestry Minister Iain Rankin said their goal was to show people what they've been working on.

Lands and Forestry Minister Iain Rankin says the government currently doesn't have the authority or regulatory powers it needs to manage the province's biodiversity.

The groups allege that the province has failed to protect and maintain 34 endangered, threatened and vulnerable species including the mainland moose, wood turtle, and bank swallow.