The Orienteering Association of Nova Scotia (OANS) is the governing body for orienteering in the Province of Nova Scotia, and is an affiliate member of the Canadian Orienteering Federation and Sport Nova Scotia. The goals and activities of the Association include:

• promoting orienteering as a recreational activity
• coordinating the activities of local orienteering clubs
• outreach programs for members of the public, including:
  • map, compass and wilderness navigation skills training
  • introductory clinics for people and recreational groups interested in learning more about orienteering
• organizing an annual schedule of orienteering events and related activities
• publication of event results
• preparing and printing orienteering maps
• training and certification for orienteering coaches, officials and mapmakers
• Junior Development Program and Provincial Team ensuring "fair play" and ethical conduct of members