In early 2000, the first metal culvert was replaced with a second, which again included a one-way flap valve on the seaward end.

We have not yet established who replaced the culvert

However:
May 30, 2000 the Board of Directors of the Friends of Crescent Beach wrote to Gerry Joudrey, Regional Manager NS Natural Resources:

With respect to the recent excavation and replacement of a culvert at Sperry's Beach, we would appreciate receiving a copy of the permit . . .

June 9, 2000 Gordon Adams, Regional Resource Manager replied:

The culvert replacement was reviewed by area staff and deemed appropriate and in the best interest of the Crown.

We have not yet established which area staff were involved in the review, or the rationale for how obstructing a water course was "deemed appropriate and in the best interest of the Crown"