In less than two weeks, the U.S. owner of a rail line that runs through Cape Breton can apply to abandon it, which likely means the track will be torn up and sold for scrap.

But a local non-profit group, Scotia Rail Development Society, still hopes to save the line and wants to find ways to make it pay.

"We have to ensure that the rail is going to stay," said Patrica Morrison, the society's co-chair.

The group has gathered close to 15,000 signatures on a petition to save the line, along with letters of support from organizations.

The society is exploring ways the rail could be used, from shipping coal and garbage to carrying tourists and local passengers. Morrison said the line is key to economic development.

Patricia Morrison, co-chair of the Scotia Rail Development Society. (Norma Jean MacPhee/CBC)

"There's a lot in the mix," she said. "We just really want to maintain the rail on the island. It's crucial for what we're trying to do."

As early as April 1, Genesee & Wyoming can apply to abandon the portion of the line between Sydney and St. Peters. But the conditions of abandonment is where the Nova Scotia government comes in.

Transportation Minister Geoff MacLellan said a plan related to abandonment will be made public within the next few days. He said the conditions will make clear to everyone what's involved.

"That will really set out the rules of the game for abandonment," said MacLellan.

Morrison said the Scotia Rail Development Society won't give up, even after the April 1 deadline.

"It does not make an ounce of sense for anybody, political or otherwise, to allow a company to tear up those rails," she said.