CONTAMINATED FISHERIES
CONTAMINATED FISHERIES
PROHIBITION ORDER NO. GSN-2010-030
WHEREAS the Regional Director General of the Department of Fisheries and Oceans for the Gulf Region has reason to believe that fish of the species set out in section 2 of the annexed order, in the area described in the Schedule to that order, are contaminated;
THEREFORE, the Regional Director General for the Department of Fisheries and Oceans for the Gulf Region pursuant to subsection 3(1) of the Management of Contaminated Fisheries Regulations, made by Order in Council P.C. 1990-1121 of June 14, 1990*, issues the annexed Order prohibiting fishing for contaminated fish.
Issued at Moncton, New Brunswick, on July 27, 2010.
__________________ Serge Thériault
Regional Director General
Gulf Region
* SOR/90-351, 1990 Canada Gazette Part II, p. 2489
LOBSTER MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR 2010 LFA25
LOBSTER MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR 2010 LFA25
Moncton – Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), Gulf Region, today provided the details of the Lobster Fishing Area (LFA) 25 management plan.
Unless indicated otherwise, existing management measures including port freezes remain in place. The conservation measures from last year remain in place in 2010:
• The minimum carapace size is 70 mm.
• The maximum size for females is 114 mm.
• The height of the escape mechanism is 40 mm.
• The maximum diameter of hoop is 152 mm.
• The possession of lobster and fishing gear is prohibited between 9:00 pm and one hour before sunrise.
Beginning in 2010, licence holders must ensure that each trap has only one tag (i.e. valid tag).
In the context of the Atlantic Lobster Sustainability Measures (ALSM) program, the Department has approved a sustainability plan in LFA 25. The following are the management measures included in this plan:
• Increase the minimum carapace size to 72 mm by 2014. Years of size increases will be determined at a later date.
• Implementation by 2012 of a reliable electronic catch and effort data collection system.
• Reduce ghost fishing by using effective biodegradable trap elements by 2012.
• Provide to the electronic catch and effort data collection system information about bycatches.
The Prince County Fisherman’s Association (PCFA) received $3 million from the ALSM program to partially fund measures outlined in the sustainability plan and for fleet rationalization by retiring 34 lobster licences in LFA 25.
…../2
- 2 -
Further to a request from commercial harvesters from PEI and until further notice, beginning in 2010 the maximum number of traps for each LFA 25 commercial harvester residing in the PEI DFO Administrative Area will be reduced from 250 to 240. DFO has set up a procedure for the return to DFO in 2010 of tags and each commercial harvester has received a letter to this effect. DFO is providing 2,000 traps to the PCFA and a trap transfer program is being implemented. Further details about this program are available from the PCFA.
In recent months, there appears to be increased interest from lobster fishing organizations to have LFAs divided into sub-LFAs. In order to ensure a consistent approach, in the coming months the Gulf Region will be formulating a proposed regional policy for input by stakeholders regarding these types of requests. In the interim, existing sub-LFAs in southern Gulf LFAs remain in place and it is not anticipated that new sub-LFAs will be created in 2010.
The Department is completing its work with fishing organizations to determine how to ensure biodegradable panels work effectively. It is expected that the results of the study will be available in 2010 and discussions with industry will take place in identifying the best approach. Modifications to the panels, if needed, would be mandatory at the latest by the 2012 fishing season.
The Department is continuing to work on implementing an electronic data collection system in southern Gulf LFAs and fishing organizations will be kept apprised as this project evolves. Please note that an electronic data collection system will be mandatory in all southern Gulf LFAs by the 2012 fishing seasons.
The Department will continue to authorize the retention of sculpin and cunner; however, this management measure will be reviewed in the future to ensure it is not having a detrimental impact on the ecosystem.
The regulated opening date is 6:00 a.m. August 9, 2010, weather permitting. If the opening date was to be modified, as already discussed, it would be delayed and under no circumstances would it be advanced. The last day of fishing will be October 10.
For information:
Ernest Ferguson
Area Director, Eastern NB
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Tracadie-Sheila, NB
506-395-7702 Bill Drost
Area Director, PEI
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Charlottetown, PEI
902-566-7810 Helen Kerr
Area Director, Gulf NS
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Antigonish, NS
902-863-5670
Opening of the 4VN Fixed Gear Halibut Fishery
The FG<45' halibut fishery in 4Vn will be open effective 4 a.m. on Sunday, July 4th and will close 48 hours later at 3:59 a.m on Tuesday, July 6th.
Please notify members that licence conditions expire on June 30th, so they will need to pick up new ones to be able to participate in the fishery.
Verna will be out of the office so she will not be able to circulate the notice to fishers, but it will be broadcast.
Happy Fishing!
4T Halibut Fishery Opening of Gulf Based Vessels July 2, 2010
2010 Gulf Nova Scotia – ATLANTIC HALIBUT (4T)
FIXED GEAR FLEET
ALLOCATION AND OPENING DATES
Moncton – June 29, 2010
The Department of Fisheries and Oceans is announcing that fishing will be authorized, for Gulf Nova Scotia fixed gear licence holders fishing Atlantic Halibut in NAFO Division 4T with vessels less than 13.716 metres (45 feet) in overall length. This fishery will take place over a period of 17 ½ hours starting at 4:30 a.m. on July 2nd, 2010 and ending at 10:00 p.m. on July 2nd, 2010. This period may be modified due to inclement weather or other uncontrollable circumstances.
The remaining allocation for the 4T Atlantic Halibut Gulf Nova Scotia fixed gear fleet
will be 18.5 metric tons in 2010.
Please refer to the previously announced Conservation and Harvesting Plan for more
information.
For more information please contact:
Luc Legère
Senior Advisor, Groundfish
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Moncton, N.B.
(506) 851-2382
Leroy MacEachern
Area Chief, Resource Management
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Antigonish, N.S.
(902) 863-5670 (ext. 2261)
Approved VMS Units by Fisheries and Oceans
Approved VMS Unitts by Fiisheriies & Oceans,, Canada
The following units meet the new standards outlined in the DFO Hardware Approval
document:
Iridium - Internal & External ( SASCO)
iTrac - 101A (Joubeh Technologies)
BB1 Orbcomm Upgrade (SASCO)*
These units are currently under review and may be phased out as of January 01, 2011.
Thrane & Thrane- Capsat 3022D (Stratos)
Qualcomm IMCT/IGPS (Boatracs) **
Stellar ST-2500 (AEL/Romm Communications)
TAB-2500 Mettrac CAN 100 (MetOcean)
Quake Global QHE-2500 (SASCO)
Voyager M1500 (Blue Oceans)
* This is an upgrade unit for the Stellar ST-2500/Quake Global QHE-2500
** Units only to be used on vessels with VMS requirements operating solely in the NAFO Areas 3Ps, 3Pn, 4 and 5.
---
Other VMS Units are currently under review.
Please check with DFO to inquire on the status of additional units being approved.
VMS Administrations Telephone: (709) 772-5789 (8am-4pm NST)
VMS Fax Line: (709) 772-5787
VMS Administrations Email: vms_support@dfo-mpo.gc.ca
---
4T FISHERY FOR 4VN BASED VESSELS OPENS
ATTENTION GROUNDFISHERS!
THE 4T FISHERY FOR 4VN VESSELS NOW OPENS FROM 6AM JUNE 18 TO 6AM JUNE 21, 2010. PLEASE DISREGARD PREVIOUS NOTICE.
Please spread the word.
Happy Fishing!
Rhonda
CHANGE IN THE OPENING DATE OF THE 4T FISHERY FOR 4VN BASED VESSELS-PREVIOUS VARIATION ORDER IS REPEALED
ORDER VARYING THE CLOSE TIME FISHING
FOR HALIBUT AND IN DIVISION 4T
FOR VESSEL CLASS A1147.
Short title
1. This Order may be cited as the Quebec Region Close Time Variation Order, 2010-Q-065.
Variation
2. The Quebec Region Close Time Variation Order 2010-Q-064 is hereby repealed
3. The close time as fixed by subsection 87(1) of the Atlantic Fishery Regulations, 1985 and set out in column IV of item 6(3) in schedule XXIII thereto is hereby varied so that no person shall fish for halibut for Vessel Class A1147 during the period beginning on January 1, 2010 and ending on June 18, 2010 at 06:00 h (ADT) and the period beginning on June 21, 2010 at 05:59 h (ADT) and ending on May 14, 2011 in Division 4T.
Coming into Force
3. This order shall come into force on the date of the signature and remains in force unless otherwise revoked.
Openig of the 4T Halibut Fishery for 4VN based Vessels
ORDER VARYING THE CLOSE TIME FISHING
FOR HALIBUT AND IN DIVISION 4T
FOR VESSEL CLASS A1147.
Short title
1. This Order may be cited as the Quebec Region Close Time Variation Order, 2010-Q-064.
Variation
2. The Quebec Region Close Time Variation Order 2010-Q-030 is hereby repealed
3. The close time as fixed by subsection 87(1) of the Atlantic Fishery Regulations, 1985 and set out in column IV of item 6(3) in schedule XXIII thereto is hereby varied so that no person shall fish for halibut for Vessel Class A1147 during the period beginning on January 1, 2010 and ending on June 16, 2010 at 06:00 h (ADT) and the period beginning on June 19, 2010 at 05:59 h (ADT) and ending on May 14, 2011 in Division 4T.
Coming into Force
3. This order shall come into force on the date of the signature and remains in force unless otherwise revoked.
OPENING OF THE 4T HALIBUT FISHERY FOR 4VN BASED BOATS JUNE 16 AT 6AM FOR 72 HOURS
Dear Groundfish Contract holders:
Please be advised that the 4T fishery for 4VN based vessels is openng on Wednesday, June 16 at 6am in the morning and will closed 72 hours later on Saturday, June 19 at 5:59am. There is no limit to the number of hooks.
Please contact DFO in Sydney to receive your new conditions.
HAPPY FISHING!
Rhonda
2010 TOTAL ALLOWABLE CATCHES AND NEW CONSERVATION MEASURES FOR NON-COD GROUNDFISH IN THE GULF OF ST. LAWRENCE
2010 TOTAL ALLOWABLE CATCHES AND NEW CONSERVATION MEASURES FOR NON-COD GROUNDFISH IN THE GULF OF ST. LAWRENCE
Moncton, Québec City, Dartmouth, Corner Brook – May 27, 2010 - The Department of Fisheries
and Oceans (DFO) announces the total allowable catches (TACs) and new conservation measures for
non-cod groundfish species in the Gulf of St. Lawrence (3Pn, 4RST).
For the following fisheries, TACs remain unchanged for 2010: 4T American Plaice, 4RST Greenland
Halibut, Redfish (Unit 1), 4T Winter Flounder, 4RST Witch Flounder and 4T Yellowtail Flounder.
The 4T White Hake fishery remains under moratorium in 2010.
The 4RST Atlantic Halibut TAC will be increased from 475 t to 600 t.
The following table is a summary of the 2010 TACs.
Stocks 2010 TACs
4T American Plaice 500 t
4RST Atlantic Halibut 600 t
4RST Greenland Halibut 4,500 t
Redfish – Unit 1 2,000 t
(index fishery)
4T White Hake moratorium
4T Winter Flounder 1,000 t
4RST Witch Flounder 1,000 t
4T Yellowtail Flounder
(directed fishery in Magdalen Islands)
300 t
The TAC increase for 4RST Atlantic Halibut is accompanied by a minimum legal size increase from
81 cm to 85 cm. The DFO-Industry working group that was created at this year's Gulf Groundfish
Advisory Committee (GGAC) meeting in March will have an opportunity following the season to
assess the impact of this increase in minimum size on industry catch rates and landed value, and
provide direction for future years.
As was discussed at the GGAC, DFO will proceed with the implementation of a quota reconciliation
program starting with the 2010-2011 season. As such, quota overruns incurred during the 2010-2011
season will be deducted by a factor of one-to-one on the following season's quotas. This measure will
apply to individual quotas as well as fleet quotas.
.../2
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Gulf, Québec, Maritimes and Newfoundland & Labrador Regions
Gouvernement Government
du Canada of Canada
- 2 -
A separate Notice to Fish Harvesters detailing the main management measures for these fisheries will
be forwarded shortly.
The northern and southern Gulf of St. Lawrence Cod TACs and management measures will be
announced at a later date.
For more information please contact:
Luc Légère
Senior Advisor, Groundfish
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Moncton, NB
(506) 851-2382
Dario Lemelin
Senior Advisor, Groundfish
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Québec, QC
(418) 648-4946
Donald Ball
Area Chief, Resource Management
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Corner Brook, NL
(709) 637-4310
Verna Docherty
2010 NORTHERN AND SOUTHERN GULF OF ST. LAWRENCE COD TOTAL ALLOWABLE CATCH
2010 NORTHERN AND SOUTHERN GULF OF ST. LAWRENCE
COD TOTAL ALLOWABLE CATCH
Moncton, Québec City, Dartmouth, Corner Brook – June 2, 2010 - The Department of Fisheries
and Oceans (DFO) announces the Northern and Southern Gulf of St. Lawrence Cod Total Allowable
Catches (TAC) for 2010.
In the northern Gulf (NAFO Divisions 4RS3Pn), there are serious concerns with the health of the cod
stock. This was highlighted in the latest Scientific Advisory Report (SAR) for the northern
Gulf of St. Lawrence cod stock assessment published in April 2010. The SAR indicates that recent
harvest levels are unsustainable and inconsistent with a stock rebuilding strategy given current
productivity. Most stock abundance indices are declining and the abundance of spawning stock is well
below the limit reference point, within the critical area. A stock in this area is considered to be heavily
depleted. Because of these concerns, the TAC has been set at 4 000 t for the 2010 season.
Fish harvester representatives must provide DFO groundfish managers with their annual Conservation
and Harvesting Plan (CHP) proposal at least ten days prior the anticipated opening date. All existing
sharing arrangements will be respected. Harvesters are advised that previously announced spawning
closures for Cod will be maintained until midnight (24:00 hrs) on June 23.
As was the case in 2009, there will be no directed commercial fishery for southern Gulf Cod in 2010
(NAFO Divisions 4TVn). A 300 t Total Allowable Catch (TAC) has been set to cover scientific and
sentinel surveys, negotiated aboriginal food, social and ceremonial agreements, and a limited
recreational fishery. There will also be a quota to ensure by-catch provisions for non-Cod directed
groundfish fisheries.
F
or more information, please contact:
Luc Légère
Senior Advisor, Groundfish
Fisheries & Oceans Canada
Moncton, NB
(506) 851-2382
Dario Lemelin
Senior Advisor, Groundfish
Fisheries & Oceans Canada
Québec, QC
(418) 648-4946
Donald Ball
Area Chief, Resources Management
Fisheries & Oceans Canada
Corner Brook, NL
(709) 637-4310
Verna Docherty
Senior Advisor, Groundfish
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Dartmouth, NS
(902) 426-4669
2010 CONSERVATION HARVESTING PLAN FOR 4T HALIBUT
Atlantic Halibut (4RST) – Fixed Gear Less Than 19.817 m
Gulf Nova Scotia fleet
Approved June 7, 2010
This conservation harvesting plan (CHP) applies to all Gulf Nova Scotia fixed gear
groundfish licence holders fishing Atlantic Halibut in NAFO Division 4T with vessels less
than 19.812 metres (65 feet) in overall length from May 15, 2010 to May 14, 2011.
When fishing in a particular area, the conservation harvesting plan for that area will apply.
It is to be noted that this conservation harvesting plan is subject to change following
ministerial decisions or annual review.
Directed fishing for any other groundfish species will require a separate harvesting plan.
The conservation measures during the fishery are as follows:
1. Protection of spawning fish and concentration of juveniles
The protection of fish during the spawning period and areas where there are
concentrations of juveniles is a priority that the department and the industry consider
very important for the reconstruction of the cod stock in the Gulf of Saint Lawrence.
The following conservation measures will apply:
Closure of all groundfish fisheries from April 1st to June 23rd in part of the NAFO
Division 4R offshore from St. Georges Bay and Port au Port Bay.
Permanent closure of all groundfish fisheries from January 1st to December 31st in
part of sub division 4T3 know as Miscou Bank as per the variation order.
Permanent closure of all groundfish fisheries from January 1st to December 31st in
sub division 4T5 known as a juvenile area.
2. Participants
For the purposes of this Conservation Harvesting Plan, fishers who belong to the Gulf
Nova Scotia fixed gear fleet are fishers having their home port in the province of Nova
Scotia adjacent to Groundfish Fishing Areas 4T1, 4T7, 4T8 and 4T9.
3. Allocation
The allocation for the Atlantic Halibut Gulf Nova Scotia fixed gear fleet will be
2
010 CONSERVATION HARVESTING PLAN
Atlantic Halibut (4RST) – Fixed Gear Less Than 19.817 m
Gulf Nova Scotia fleet
8.4 metric tons in 2010. The Atlantic Halibut Gulf Nova Scotia fixed gear fleet will also
be receiving 17.1 metric tons from the mobile sector. The total allocation for this
fleet is 25.5 metric tons.
If this fishery is not successful the allocation may be fished in the spring of 2010 before
May 14th.
Fishing gear
Hook and line only
i. Minimum hook size: opening must be equal to or greater than 15.4 mm.
ii. Minimum hook spacing of three (3) fathoms when fishing in NAFO Division 4R or sub-
Division 3Pn
4. By-Catch Limits
By-catch is defined as the weight of a by-catch species divided by the weight of the
directed species, in this case, Atlantic halibut. The by-catch limits of groundfish while
directing for Atlantic halibut are as follows:
Cod Maximum bycatch cap of 7.65 metric tons of cod for the entire
fleet.
White Hake Maximum daily limit of 10%
Sharks Maximum daily limit of the lesser of 10% or 500 kg by weight on
board the vessel providing the vessel has a condition of license
authorizing by-catch of sharks.
Other species of groundfish in
4RST 25%
Cod by-catch will be maintained at a strict minimum level. When directing for Atlantic
halibut a by-catch quota must be allocated within the appropriate cod CHP.
Once the overall by-catch quota is caught, the Atlantic Halibut fishery in 4RST will
cease.
If daily by-catch limits are exceeded, the fishery may be closed and/or fishers may be
faced with some form of enforcement action.
5. Fishing effort
Given the limited amount of Atlantic Halibut available, it is recognized that the Gulf
Nova Scotia fixed gear fleet will have to limit its fishing effort. Limits on fishing can
take several forms, such as:
· The number of boats on the water
· The duration of the fishery, or
· The amount of fishing gear used.
Following consultations with industry representatives, it was decided that the number
of participants in the fishery would not be limited, but the duration of the fishery will
be reduced.
2010 CONSERVATION HARVESTING PLAN
Atlantic Halibut (4RST) – Fixed Gear Less Than 19.817 m
Gulf Nova Scotia fleet
6. Small Fish Protocol
The small fish protocol that will apply:
a. Cod 43 cm
b. American Plaice 30 cm
c. Witch Flounder 30 cm
d. White Hake 45 cm
e. Winter Flounder /Yellowtail
Flounder
25 cm
f. Atlantic Halibut 81 cm
g. Greenland Halibut 44 cm
h. Redfish 22 cm
Areas will be closed for specified fleet sectors when the number of undersized fish
reaches or exceeds 15% of the catch of any of the above species.
7. Logbook
Logbooks are mandatory for all vessels.
8. Dockside Monitoring
Dockside Monitoring Program (DMP) will apply at 100%.
9. Observer Coverage
a. 4RS, 3Pn, 4T2a, 4T4 and 4T6:
Industry-funded at-sea observer coverage at a minimum of 10% will apply for
vessels less than 45 feet. For vessels greater than 45 feet, a minimum of 15% will
apply.
b. In the remainder of 4T:
Industry-funded at-sea observer coverage at a minimum of 20% will apply for
vessels less than 45 feet. For vessels greater than 45 feet, a minimum of 30% will
apply.
Fishers must communicate with the at-sea observer company at 1-800-561-2467 at
least 10 hours prior to leaving for each fishing trip (Mandatory hail-out).
10.Catch monitoring and Test fishery
Small fish and by-catch closures will be of a minimum duration of 10 days. The cost of
conducting all test fisheries must be borne by industry. If a fishery is closed, it will not
re-open unless DFO feels that it can be effectively monitored and controlled. If any
particular fishery is closed twice during the year because of high levels of small fish or
incidental catch, the fishery may remain closed for the remainder of the year.
11.Fishing Seasons
Fishing will be authorized during a period of 17.5 hours starting at 4:30 a.m. (ADT)
on June 10, 2010 and ending on June 10, 2010 at 10:00 p.m. (ADT).
2010 CONSERVATION HARVESTING PLAN
Atlantic Halibut (4RST) – Fixed Gear Less Than 19.817 m
Gulf Nova Scotia fleet
This period may be modified due to inclement weather or other uncontrollable
circumstances.
If less than 75% of the overall fleet quota is caught at the end of this fishing period,
another opening will be scheduled, with the opening dates to be negotiated with
industry representatives. However, if more than 75% of the overall fleet quota is
caught, then the fishery will be considered a success and a subsequent opening may
not be permitted.
12.Other Management Measures
The department will continue to monitor the level of dumping and discarding of
groundfish at sea. An industry funded sampling program is already in place to collect
data to monitor small fish and by-catch. The sampling program will further be
enhanced to include the collection of additional data to monitor discard of groundfish.
If a fleet sector or an individual is suspected of dumping and discarding groundfish at
sea, the industry funded at-sea observer coverage will be increased up to 100%.
The overrun of quotas is a problem that needs to be addressed. To do so, the
Department has agreed to implement quota reconciliation starting with the 2010
season. Any fleet quota overruns in the present season (2010) will be deducted on a
one-to-one ratio from the following season's quota (2011).
Opening of the Halibut Fishery for 4T based Vessels
Notice to Fish Harvesters
Gouvernement Government
du Canada of Canada
2010 Gulf Nova Scotia – ATLANTIC HALIBUT (4T)
FIXED GEAR FLEET
ALLOCATION AND OPENING DATES
Moncton – June 8th , 2010
The Department of Fisheries and Oceans is announcing that fishing will be authorized,
for Gulf Nova Scotia fixed gear licence holders fishing Atlantic Halibut in NAFO
Division 4T with vessels less than 13.716 metres (45 feet) in overall length. This fishery
will take place over a period of 17 ½ hours starting at 4:30 a.m. on June 10, 2010 and
ending at 10:00 p.m. on June 10, 2010. This period may be modified due to inclement
weather or other uncontrollable circumstances.
The allocation for the 4T Atlantic Halibut Gulf Nova Scotia fixed gear fleet will be 25.5
metric tons in 2010.
Please refer to the attached Conservation and Harvesting Plan for more information.
For more information please contact:
Luc Legère
Senior Advisor, Groundfish
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Moncton, N.B.
(506) 851-2382
Leroy MacEachern
Area Chief, Resource Management
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Antigonish, N.S.
(902) 863-5670 (ext. 2261)
2010 NORTHERN AND SOUTHERN GULF OF ST. LAWRENCE COD TOTAL ALLOWABLE CATCH
2010 NORTHERN AND SOUTHERN GULF OF ST. LAWRENCE
COD TOTAL ALLOWABLE CATCH
Moncton, Québec City, Dartmouth, Corner Brook – June 2, 2010 - The Department of Fisheries
and Oceans (DFO) announces the Northern and Southern Gulf of St. Lawrence Cod Total Allowable
Catches (TAC) for 2010.
In the northern Gulf (NAFO Divisions 4RS3Pn), there are serious concerns with the health of the cod
stock. This was highlighted in the latest Scientific Advisory Report (SAR) for the northern
Gulf of St. Lawrence cod stock assessment published in April 2010. The SAR indicates that recent
harvest levels are unsustainable and inconsistent with a stock rebuilding strategy given current
productivity. Most stock abundance indices are declining and the abundance of spawning stock is well
below the limit reference point, within the critical area. A stock in this area is considered to be heavily
depleted. Because of these concerns, the TAC has been set at 4 000 t for the 2010 season.
Fish harvester representatives must provide DFO groundfish managers with their annual Conservation
and Harvesting Plan (CHP) proposal at least ten days prior the anticipated opening date. All existing
sharing arrangements will be respected. Harvesters are advised that previously announced spawning
closures for Cod will be maintained until midnight (24:00 hrs) on June 23.
As was the case in 2009, there will be no directed commercial fishery for southern Gulf Cod in 2010
(NAFO Divisions 4TVn). A 300 t Total Allowable Catch (TAC) has been set to cover scientific and
sentinel surveys, negotiated aboriginal food, social and ceremonial agreements, and a limited
recreational fishery. There will also be a quota to ensure by-catch provisions for non-Cod directed
groundfish fisheries.
For more information, please contact:
Luc Légère
Senior Advisor, Groundfish
Fisheries & Oceans Canada
Moncton, NB
(506) 851-2382
Dario Lemelin
Senior Advisor, Groundfish
Fisheries & Oceans Canada
Québec, QC
(418) 648-4946
Donald Ball
Area Chief, Resources Management
Fisheries & Oceans Canada
Corner Brook, NL
(709) 637-4310
Verna Docherty
Senior Advisor, Groundfish
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Dartmouth, NS
(902) 426-4669
2010 TOTAL ALLOWABLE CATCHES AND NEW CONSERVATION MEASURES FOR NON-COD GROUNDFISH IN THE GULF OF ST. LAWRENCE
2010 TOTAL ALLOWABLE CATCHES AND NEW CONSERVATION MEASURES FORNON-COD GROUNDFISH IN THE GULF OF ST. LAWRENCE
Moncton, Québec City, Dartmouth, Corner Brook – May 27, 2010 - The Department of Fisheries
and Oceans (DFO) announces the total allowable catches (TACs) and new conservation measures for
non-cod groundfish species in the Gulf of St. Lawrence (3Pn, 4RST).
For the following fisheries, TACs remain unchanged for 2010: 4T American Plaice, 4RST Greenland
Halibut, Redfish (Unit 1), 4T Winter Flounder, 4RST Witch Flounder and 4T Yellowtail Flounder.
The 4T White Hake fishery remains under moratorium in 2010.
The 4RST Atlantic Halibut TAC will be increased from 475 t to 600 t.
The following table is a summary of the 2010 TACs.
Stocks 2010 TACs
4T American Plaice- 500 t
4RST Atlantic Halibut -600 t
4RST Greenland Halibut- 4,500 t
Redfish – Unit 1- 2,000 t
(index fishery)
4T White Hake- moratorium
4T Winter Flounder- 1,000 t
4RST Witch Flounder- 1,000 t
4T Yellowtail Flounder(directed fishery in Magdalen Islands)-300 t
The TAC increase for 4RST Atlantic Halibut is accompanied by a minimum legal size increase from 81 cm to 85 cm. The DFO-Industry working group that was created at this year's Gulf Groundfish Advisory Committee (GGAC) meeting in March will have an opportunity following the season to
assess the impact of this increase in minimum size on industry catch rates and landed value, and
provide direction for future years.
As was discussed at the GGAC, DFO will proceed with the implementation of a quota reconciliation
program starting with the 2010-2011 season. As such, quota overruns incurred during the 2010-2011
season will be deducted by a factor of one-to-one on the following season's quotas. This measure will
apply to individual quotas as well as fleet quotas.
.../2
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Gulf, Québec, Maritimes and Newfoundland & Labrador Regions
Gouvernement Government
du Canada of Canada
2 -
A separate Notice to Fish Harvesters detailing the main management measures for these fisheries will
be forwarded shortly.
The northern and southern Gulf of St. Lawrence Cod TACs and management measures will be
announced at a later date.
For more information please contact:
Luc Légère
Senior Advisor, Groundfish
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Moncton, NB
(506) 851-2382
Dario Lemelin
Senior Advisor, Groundfish
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Québec, QC
(418) 648-4946
Donald Ball
Area Chief, Resource Management
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Corner Brook, NL
(709) 637-4310
Verna Docherty
Senior Advisor, Groundfish
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Dartmouth, NS
(902) 426-4669
2010 Georges Bank (5Z) Conservation Harvesting Plan
2010 Georges Bank (5Z) Conservation Harvesting Plan
This Conservation Harvesting Plan (CHP) applies to all groundfish vessels fishing in NAFO Division 5Z starting June 1, 2010.
Separate licence conditions will be required in 5Z this year for all ITQ and EA fleets. The licence conditions for all vessels will authorize the licence holder to direct only for Cod, Haddock and Pollock, while FG will also be authorized to direct for Atlantic Halibut. Directed fishing for any other species of groundfish (e.g. Yellowtail Flounder) will require a separate licence condition and harvesting plan.
In accordance with the agreement with the USA there is a requirement to account for all mortalities and, if the Canadian quota has been exceeded, any overage including estimated discards will be subtracted from the following year.
Given the significant difference in Cod and Haddock quotas, observer coverage for all fleets willl be a minimum of 20%. Discards will be estimated for all fleets and, where applicable, subtracted from the fleet quota. All discard calculations will be based on the fleet level but calculations will be made available to representatives if there is interest in applying the discards to specific licences. Individuals will be able to request higher observer coverage only when there are sufficient observers available to accommodate these requests.
Licences in the Mobile Gear <65’ ITQ fleet will be closed by variation order and will be opened by request only. Licence holders are required to contact Verna Docherty by telephone at (902) 426-4669 or by electronic mail at Verna.Docherty@dfo-mpo.gc.ca to request their licence be permitted to fish in 5Z. Eligible requests received by noon on Monday will be open effective the following Wednesday. Licence holders who miss the deadline will not be opened until the following Wednesday. To be deemed eligible, the licence holder must demonstrate that they have adequate quota to be able to make a fishing trip to 5Z.
For 2010, DFO will provide weekly catch reports with the amount of cod and haddock landed for each fishing trip, whether the trip was observed, sorted by sector and coded to protect the identity of individuals, to the relevant fisheries association and groundfish advisory committee representatives. All information will be treated in a manner that is compliant with the Privacy Act. Representatives will be functioning in an oversight capacity to highlight areas of concern to DFO for further consideration.
FISHING GEAR
Mobile Gear
1. Minimum mesh size is 130 mm square when directing for Cod, Haddock and Pollock.
2. It is mandatory to have a fully-operational horizontal separator panel installed as per licence conditions at all times.
3. VMS is required for all vessels fishing in 5Z.
Fixed Gear
4. Type and size of hook that has a minimum gape of 12 mm.
5. Minimum mesh size for gillnets not less than 152 mm.
6. Fixed gear must not be left unattended at any time (trip fishing only).
7. VMS required for all vessels fishing in 5Z.
CATCH MONITORING, OBSERVERS & OTHER FISHING ACTIVITIES
8. 100% industry-funded Dockside Monitoring Program is required.
9. Small fish and by-catch closures will be a minimum duration of 10 days.
10. Areas on Georges Bank may be closed to various fleets based on the observed Haddock and Cod ratios with the requirement to test areas open after 10 days with all costs borne by industry.
11. Vessels to hail out to At-Sea Observer Program via IVR as listed in the licence conditions.
12. Industry-funded observer coverage is based on a minimum of 20% subject to the following:
(i) The observer coverage is calculated based on amount of haddock observed.
(ii) Coverage should be representative of the fleet sector by quarter and by zone.
(iii) Observer coverage may be increased at anytime.
(iv) 100% observer coverage for any longline gear fishing in the exploratory area of the coral conservation zone as described in section 18 of this CHP.
(v) No vessel will be permitted to fish in any stock area other than 5Z on any trip unless an observer is onboard.
Bycatch Provisions:
13. The catch of all non-quota species will be monitored and if individual landings are excessive or more than the historical average is caught by a fleet sector, closures for fleets or individuals will be considered or additional observer coverage at the individual’s expense.
14. For mobile gear, 10% bycatch of flatfish while fishing for Cod, Haddock and Pollock of which no more than 5% of the directed fishery should be Yellowtail Flounder.
15. Directing for Cusk is not permitted and the amount of Cusk on any trip for FG vessels cannot exceed the lesser of 15% of the amount of Cod , Haddock, Pollock and Atlantic Halibut combined onboard the vessel or 3000 pounds round weight.
16. Any licence holder found to be deliberately or consistently exceeding the bycatch levels will be required to have additional observer coverage at their expense or the individual’s vessel class will be closed to fishing in that area.
Small fish Protocol:
17. Areas may be closed for specific fleet sectors when the number of undersized fish reaches or exceeds 15% of the catch of Cod, Haddock, Pollock or flatfish. Fish will be considered undersized if smaller than:
Cod, Haddock and Pollock: 43 cm
Atlantic Halibut: 81 cm
Witch Flounder 33 cm
American Plaice, Yellowtail Flounder 30 cm
Winter Flounder 33 cm
Coral Conservation Area:
18. The coordinates of the coral conservation area are included in licence conditions. Fishing within a portion of the area described in licence conditions can only proceed with 100% observer coverage, the expense of which will be borne by the individual licence holder.
Fishing Zone:
19. The Bank will be subdivided into 5 zones or areas to allow for better management. The zones may be used to estimate discards, or to close for bycatch or small fish.
2010-2011 INTERIM FISHERIES PLAN FOR NON-COD GROUNDFISH IN THE GULF OF ST. LAWRENCE
2010-2011 INTERIM FISHERIES PLAN FOR
NON-COD GROUNDFISH IN THE GULF OF ST. LAWRENCE
(Greenland Halibut – ITQ fleet, Yellowtail Flounder, American Plaice, Winter Flounder, Witch Flounder)
Moncton, Québec City, Corner Brook – May 12, 2010 -
Pending the announcement of the Total
Allowable Catch (TAC) and other conservation measures for groundfish, the Department of Fisheries
and Oceans (DFO) authorizes an interim fishery for certain species of groundfish in the Gulf of St.
Lawrence (3Pn, 4RST).Thus, the 4RST Greenland Halibut fishery for the fixed gear fleet under ITQ, 4T Yellowtail Flounder,4T American Plaice, 4RST Witch Flounder, and 4RST Winter Flounder fisheries will open onMa y 15, 2010 at 00:01 a.m. local time. Management measures for the above-listed species, quotas, remain essentially unchanged from 2009 until the approval of TAC and management
measures for 2010-2011. Please consult the 2009 Conservation Harvesting Plans (CHP) for your fleet
sector or the attached table to find the key management measures for specific fisheries. Licensed fish harvesters who want to participate in fishing activities for any of the above noted species should ensure that proper agreements with dockside monitoring and at-sea observer companies are in place, and obtain new conditions of licence from their local DFO Licensing Service Centre.
Once the TAC and management measures for the 2010-2011 Gulf groundfish fishery are announced, the updating of 2010-2011 CHPs will be completed in consultation with concerned fleets, and other fisheries will be authorized.
For more information please contact:
Luc Légère
Senior Advisor, Groundfish
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Moncton, N.B.
(506) 851-2382
Dario Lemelin
Senior Advisor, Groundfish
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Québec, Québec
(418) 648-4946
Donald Ball
Area Chief, Resource Management
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Corner Brook, NL
(709) 637-4310
Halibut fishery Opening at 4am Monday Morning for 48 hours
This is to confirm the opening of the halibut fishery for 48 hours starting at 4am Monday morningm May 10 and closing at 4am Wednesday morning.
Hsppy Fishing!
EARLY OPENING OF MACKEREL FISHING SEASON IN MFA 16
EARLY OPENING OF MACKEREL FISHING SEASON
IN MACKEREL FISHING AREA 16 (MFA 16)
Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) wishes to advise industry of an early opening of the mackerel fishing season in MFA 16. The fishery will start at 06:00 hrs (ADT) on May 22, 2010.
All fish harvesters are reminded to remain careful when fishing in this area due to the ongoing fishing activity by snow crab fish harvesters.
For more information, please contact:
Michel Albert Colin MacIsaac Leroy MacEachern
Resource ManagementResource Management Resource Management
Fisheries and Oceans Canada Fisheries and Oceans Canada Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Tracadie-Sheila (NB) Charlottetown (PEI) Antigonish (NS)
(506) 395-7718 (902) 566-7815 (902) 863-5670
David Courtemanche Sylvette LeBlanc
Resource Management Resource Management
Fisheries and Oceans Canada Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Gaspé (QC) Cap-aux-Meules (QC)
(418) 368-5559 (418) 986-2390
OPENING OF THE 4T HALIBUT FISHERY FOR GULF BASED VESSELS
2010 GULF NOVA SCOTIA – ATLANTIC HALIBUT (4RST)
FIXED GEAR FLEET
ALLOCATION AND OPENING DATES
Moncton – April 14, 2010
The Department of Fisheries and Oceans announces that fishing will be authorized, for Gulf Nova
Scotia fixed gear licence holders fishing Atlantic Halibut in NAFO Division 4T with vessels less than
19.812 metres (65 feet) in overall length. This fishery is scheduled to take place from April 20, 2010
at 6:00 a.m. until April 23, 2010 at 6:00 p.m. This period may be modified due to inclement weather
or other uncontrollable circumstances.
The remaining 2009 Atlantic Halibut quota for the Gulf Nova Scotia fixed gear fleet is 10.10 metric
tonnes. This quota is valid until May 14th, 2010 at 11:59 p.m.
If conditions do not allow for an April 20, 2010 opening, industry will be consulted before a new date
is announced.
For more information please contact:
Luc Légère
Senior Advisor, Groundfish
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Moncton, N.B.
(506) 851-2382
Paul Boyd
A/Area Chief, Resource Management
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Antigonish, N.S.
(902) 863-5670
Herring Fisher in 16A-16G 2010-2011
Notice to Fish Harvesters
2010-2011 TOTAL ALLOWABLE CATCH (TAC) AND HARVESTING
PLAN FOR THE SPRING INSHORE HERRING FISHERY IN THE
SOUTHERN GULF OF ST. LAWRENCE (HERRING FISHING AREAS
16A-16G)
MONCTON – Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) has announced the 2010-2011 spring and fall
Total Allowable Catch (TAC) and the Harvesting Plan for the spring inshore herring fishery in the
southern Gulf of St. Lawrence. The decision on the TAC levels is based on the results of the
Regional Advisory Process held by DFO Science on March 9-10, 2010, as well as on consultations
with industry representatives following this meeting.
For the spring fishery, according to abundance indicators, the current adult biomass is estimated at
28,100 t, above the limit reference point (LRP) of 22,000 t, but below the upper stock reference
(USR) of 54,000 t. When the spawning stock biomass is below the USR, a harvesting strategy
compliant with the precautionary approach would reduce the exploitation rate to promote stock
growth to above the USR. DFO has set the 2010 and 2011 spring TAC at 2,000 tonnes. This
decision takes into account advice from industry to maintain a minimal catch level, while continuing
to ensure stock rebuilding. This catch scenario represents a 62% probability of a 5% increase in
biomass for the spring spawning component at the end of 2011. This TAC is accompanied with a
harvesting strategy and management measures aimed at maintaining catches below 2,000 t to
promote rebuilding, as well as measures to protect spawning in many areas of the southern Gulf.
The Department also wishes to inform industry that the bait fishery will continue to be the priority
market for the 2010-2011 spring fisheries. As such, if fishing activities are directed on other
markets, further management actions could be taken in order to reduce these activities. DFO is very
preoccupied with the status of the spring spawning component, and will continue efforts with
industry to rebuild the spring herring component.
For the fall herring fishery, given that the abundance indicators show that the biomass appears stable
and at a high level, the TAC will remain at 65,000 t for 2010 and 2011, the same level as 2009.
Monitoring of bait landings will continue in 2010-2011. Licence holders who wish to fish under the
authority of a bait licence will have to request conditions of licence from the local licensing service
center. As detailed in the conditions of licence, bait licence holders will be required to maintain a log
of catches and report these catches. The failure to submit logs for licence holders who request
conditions may disqualify the licence holder from obtaining a herring/mackerel bait licence in the
next fishing season. Spawning beds which are closed to commercial fishing will also be closed by
licence condition to bait fishing.
The small fish protocol applicable to the purse seine fishery will be reviewed by an industry working
group.
The sharing of the quota remains unchanged for 2010-2011: 76.83% for the inshore fleet and 23.17%
for large seiners.
2
Spring
SNOW CRAB RE-TAGGING AT SEA POLICY
SNOW CRAB RE-TAGGING AT SEA POLICY
Following consultations with the snow crab industry and stakeholders, a decision has been made to revoke the Conservation & Protection Directive on the Re-tagging of snow crab traps at sea.
The outcome of these consultations was supported by industry and stakeholders to abolish the Directive.
The interim Directive was established in 2003 as a temporary measure to allow fish harvesters that were new to the crab fishery the ability of re-tagging snow crab traps of an existing licence holder to a new licence holder without bringing the crab traps ashore. The transition period is now over and Conservation & Protection will no longer allow re-tagging of snow crab traps at sea.
Fish harvesters are hereby notified that DFO is revoking the Re-tagging of snow crab traps at sea interim directive effective immediately.
For further information:
Ron Belliveau
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Conservation and Protection Branch
Gulf Region
Moncton, NB
(506) 851-2088 John Chouinard
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Conservation and Protection Branch
Quebec Region
Québec, QC
(418) 648-5889
STABILIZATION OF ACCESS CRAB FISHING AREA 12, 18, 25, 26
STABILIZATION OF ACCESS
SNOW CRAB FISHERY IN CRAB FISHING AREA 12, 18, 25, 26
Moncton – The Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO), Gulf Region, announced today the stabilization of access to the Area 12, 18, 25, 26 snow crab fishery. This announcement follows the previous stabilization of access for the period 2005 to 2009.
As suggested in the « Policy Framework for the Management of Fisheries on Canada’s Atlantic Coast », the fishery is a common property resource to be managed for the benefit of all Canadians. DFO manages these resources consistent with conservation objectives and sustainable use, the protection afforded Aboriginal rights, and the relative contributions that various uses of the resource make to Canadian society.
The Framework also suggests that the distribution of the resource to various commercial fleets be established for longer terms. In order to better plan their fishing operations, harvesters need to know if they have long term access to a particular fishery and what their share of the resource will be.
It is in this context that access to the Crab Fishing Area 12, 18, 25, 26 snow crab fishery is stabilized for the period 2010 to 2014 inclusive, as follows:
STABILIZATION OF ACCESS CRAB FISHING AREA 12, 18, 25, 26
Percentage of TAC
First Nations 15.816 %
New Brunswick 8.700 %
Quebec 6.239 %
Prince Edward Island 0.877 %
Traditional Fleets 69.184 %
Midshore, New Brunswick 39.408 %
Midhsore, Quebec 21.169 %
Midshore, Nova Scotia 1.169 %
Inshore, Nova Scotia 4.002 %
Inshore, Prince Edward Island 3.436 %
New Access Fleets 15 %
New Brunswick 7.129 %
MFU 6.1613 %
ITQ groundfish specialists 0.713 %
Competitive groundfish specialists 0.2546 %
Quebec 4.837 %
Nova Scotia 0.913 %
Prince Edward Island 2.122 %
PEIFA 1.867 %
PEI Groundfishermen’s Association 0.255 %
Total 100%
For further information contact
Tasha Laroche
Director, Resource Management
Gulf Region
DFO Moncton
(506) 851-7790 Marcel Boudreau
Director, Resource Management
Quebec Region
DFO Quebec
(418) 648-7679
GULF REGION CLOSE TIME VARIATION ORDER, 2009-113
GULF REGION CLOSE TIME VARIATION ORDER, 2009-113
The Regional Director General, Gulf Region, Department of Fisheries and Oceans, pursuant to paragraph 43(m) of the Fisheries Act and subsection 6(1) of the Fishery (General) Regulations, hereby makes the annexed order varying the close time for fishing for bluefin tuna in NAFO Division 4T.
Dated at Moncton, New Brunswick, October 29, 2009.
_______________________
Robert Richard
Acting Regional Director General
Gulf Region
ORDER VARYING THE CLOSE TIME
FOR FISHING FOR BLUEFIN TUNA
IN NAFO DIVISION 4T
Short Title
1. This Order may be cited as Gulf Region Close Time Variation Order 2009-113.
2. Gulf Region Close Time Variation Order 2009-112 is hereby revoked.
Variation
3. The close time as fixed by section 99 of the Atlantic Fishery Regulations, 1985, is hereby varied so that no person shall fish for bluefin tuna using a vessel set out in column I, with the type of gear set out in column II during the close time set out in column III in Schedule XXV of this Order.
Coming into Force
4. This Order shall come into force on the date of signature and remains in force until December 31, 2009, at which time the close time shall revert to those set out in Schedule XXV of the said Regulations.
../2
-2-
Gulf Region Close Time Variation Order 2009-113
SCHEDULE XXV
Item Column I
Vessel Column II
Gear Column III
Close Time
6. A vessel with a fishing port located on any part of the coastline of Nova Scotia within Division 4T. a) Angling gear
b) Tended lines (a) From 1000 hrs on October 29 to December 31.
(b) From 1000 hrs on October 29 to December 31.
TUNA FISHING BY GULF NOVA SCOTIA LICENSE HOLDERS(AMENDED)
TUNA FISHING BY GULF NOVA SCOTIA LICENSE HOLDERS
(AMENDED)
Antigonish- Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) wish to advise Gulf Nova Scotia tuna license holders that the tuna fishing season for areas 4T and 4WD is opening on August 17th, 2009 at 00:01 (12:01 am). The fishery will open for 5 days or until 20 mt is landed, whichever comes first. The fishery will re-open at 00:01 (12:01 am) on September 28th, 2009 until the remaining quota is caught. The total quota available is 50.53 mt including Ex-Sector.
Only those vessels that are registered to a Gulf Nova Scotia fish harvester can participate in these fisheries. All requests for a substitute vessel will be reviewed and only those that are requesting the substitute vessel from Gulf Nova Scotia will be considered.
Only those fish harvesters who have pre-registered at the DFO area office in Antigonish by 15:00 (3:00pm) on August 14th, 2009 will be able to participate in the Ex-Sector fishery. Ex-Sector will open on September 28, 2009 at 00:01 (12:01 am).
The Ex-Sector meeting will take place in the Class of ‘47 Boardroom, DFO office, 176 Portland St., Dartmouth at 10:00 (10:00 am) on Friday, September 25th, 2009. Fish harvesters must have their vessels in Eastern Passage or ports west of there and have reported to Fleet Captains by 12:00 (12:00 noon) Sunday, September 27th, 2009. Fleet captains will be chosen by the tuna association.
The Ex-Sector cap for the GNS fleet is 35 mt. If there is an overrun in the Ex-Sector, it will be deducted from next year’s Ex-Sector quota for the Gulf Nova Scotia fleet.
For information: Alan Dwyer
A/Chief, Resource Management
Gulf Nova Scotia Area
Fisheries and Oceans
Antigonish, NS
(902) 863-5670
WHELK EXPLORATORY FISHERY
WHELK EXPLORATORY FISHERY
The Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), Gulf Region, wishes to advise industry that it will be considering issuing temporary exploratory licences under the New Emerging Fisheries Policy in order to evaluate the feasibility of a whelk fishery (Buccinum undatum) in the Southern Gulf of St.-Lawrence.
DFO’s intention is to combine both Stage 1 and 2 of the New Emerging Fisheries Policy and issue exploratory licences under Section 7 of the Fisheries Act. All proposals will be assessed under the provisions of the New Emerging Fisheries Policy that can be found online at http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca
/fm-gp/policies-politiques/efp-pnp-eng.htm. Should the number of applicants exceed the number of licences allowed per area, a selection process will take place and the names of the successful applicants will be publicly released. As stated in the policy, First Nation applications will be given special consideration.
The following management measures will apply in the exploratory whelk fishery:
Lobster Fishing Areas (LFA) will be used to manage the whelk fishery
The maximum number of traps allowed will be 100 and only DFO approved traps may be used.
The maximum volume of the each trap will be 0.3 m3 with 57 mm net mesh size
Only whelks with a minimum shell length of 75 mm may be retained.
The proposed season in each LFA should be within the timeframe of September 1st to November 30th
Logbooks are mandatory and must be completed as instructed by DFO.
100% dockside monitoring
Licence holders will be responsible for the cost of technicians required for data collection
The maximum number of licences that will be issued per LFA are the following:
LFA 25 3 (1-GNB, 1-GNS, 1-PEI)
LFA 26A 6 (3-PEI, 3-GNS)
LFA 26B 5 (3-North, 2-South)
Proponents who wish to participate in this exploratory fishery are asked to submit a proposal that meets the requirements set out in the application process of the New Emerging Fisheries Policy, to the area office by July 24, 2009 for evaluation.
Alan Dwyer
Junior Staff Officer, Resource Management
Gulf Nova Scotia
Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada
2920, Highway 104
Antigonish, N.S.
B2G 2K6
Tel: (902) 863-5670 x.2259
Fax: (902) 863-5818
Shari Cormier
Species Officer, Resource Management Gulf Fisheries Center
Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Moncton, N.B.
Tel: (506) 851-7255
Fax: (506) 851-2607
MANAGEMENT MEASURES FOR 2009 – 2010 FOR SPECIES OF GROUNDFISH OTHER THAN COD IN THE GULF OF ST. LAWRENCE
MANAGEMENT MEASURES FOR 2009 – 2010
FOR SPECIES OF GROUNDFISH OTHER THAN COD
IN THE GULF OF ST. LAWRENCE
(Redfish, Winter Flounder, Yellowtail Flounder, American Plaice, Witch Flounder, Atlantic Halibut)
Moncton, Québec City, Corner Brook – May 14, 2009
The Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) today announced the management measures of certain
species of groundfish for 2009-2010. This Notice is further to the May 13th Notice to Fishers in which
the total allowable catches (TACs) for groundfish, other than cod, were announced for 2009. Attached
is a summary table of the Conservation Harvesting Plans outlining the main management measures for
these fisheries.
Copies of the Conservation Harvesting Plans (CHP) are available from DFO offices and these
harvesting plans include detailed and specific measures for each species of groundfish. These
measures, combined with responsible fishing practices, should ensure that the conservation goals are
met. However, if the fishery is not conducted in an orderly manner, the Department may implement
additional management measures or controls in these fisheries.Licensed fishers who want to participate in fishing activities for species listed in the table must obtain conditions of licence for the 2009-2010 season from their local DFO Licensing Service Centre.
For more information please contact:
Luc Légère
Senior Advisor, Groundfish
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Moncton, NB
(506) 851-2382
Dario Lemelin
Senior Advisor, Groundfish
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Québec, QC
(418) 648-4946
Donald Ball
Area Chief, Resource Management
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Corner Brook, NL
(709) 637-4310
Notice to Fish Harvesters-Spring Herring Fishery
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
April 15, 2009
Notice to Fish Harvesters
2009 TOTAL ALLOWABLE CATCH (TAC) AND HARVESTING PLAN
FOR THE SPRING INSHORE HERRING FISHERY IN THE SOUTHERN
GULF OF ST. LAWRENCE (HERRING FISHING AREAS 16A-16G)
MONCTON – Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) has announced the 2009 Total Allowable Catch (TAC) and Harvesting Plan for the spring inshore herring fishery in the southern Gulf of St. Lawrence. The decision on the TAC level is based on the results of the Regional Advisory
Process held by DFO Science on March 11-12, 2009, as well as on consultations with industry representatives following this meeting.
The spawning biomass in the spring has continuously declined since 1995 and according to abundance indicators, the current adult biomass, estimated at 20,300 t, is below the limit reference point of 22,000 t. The precautionary approach requires that removals from the stock should be kept to the lowest level possible. DFO has set the 2009 TAC at 2,500 t, as in 2008. This decision takes
into account advice from industry to maintain a minimal catch level for bait in order to reduce, among other things, the economic burden on lobster fishing enterprises in 2009. It is understood by industry and DFO that this catch scenario represents a high risk of future biomass reduction for the spring spawning component. However, this TAC is accompanied with a harvesting strategy and
management measures aimed at maintaining catches below 2,000 t to promote rebuilding, as well as measures to protect spawning in many areas of the southern Gulf. The Department also wishes to inform industry that the bait fishery will be the priority market for the 2009 spring fishery. As such, if fishing activities are directed on other markets, further management actions could be taken in order to reduce these activities. DFO is very preoccupied with the status of the spring spawning component, and will continue efforts with industry to rebuild the spring herring component.
Monitoring of bait landings will be implemented in 2009. As detailed in the conditions of licence, bait licence holders will be required to maintain a log of catches and report these catches.
Spawning beds which are closed to commercial fishing will also be closed by licence condition to bait fishing. Finally, a protocol will be established to reduce the catches of spring spawners during
the fall purse seine fishery.
The sharing of the quota remains unchanged for 2009: 76.83% for the inshore fleet and 23.17% for large seiners.
Spring Quota in the 2009 herring fishery (t) as per traditional sharing
FLEET SPRING
Inshore fleet Areas 16A-G 1,901
Inshore fleet in Area 17 20
Gulf large seiners 579
TOTAL 2,500
2008 Inshore fleet quota distribution (in tonnes) in HFAs 16A to 16G
QUOTA
QUOTA (Area 16A-G) 1,901
QUOTA (Area 17) 20
TOTAL INSHORE QUOTA
(Areas 16A-G and 17)
1,921
Reserve (initially distributed) 0
Remaining reserve ** 947
TOTAL RESERVE 947
Basic allocation with no initial distribution of reserve
16A 4
16B 95
16C 130
16D 22
16E 605
16F 7
16G 9
16A-G (June 1 – 30) 82
** Remaining reserve after initial distribution. For more details on inshore quota distribution rules, please
refer to Annex I.
The 2009 spring inshore management measures for each Herring Fishing Area (HFAs) were established after consulting with fleet representatives. The fall inshore management measures for each HFA and for the herring purse seine fleet will be announced at a later date.
For more information on the management of the herring fishery, see the Gulf Region Herring Fishery
Information Website at http://www.glf.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fam-gpa/herring-hareng/index-e.php .
2
INFORMATION :
Colin MacIsaac
Resource Management
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Charlottetown (PEI)
(902) 566-7815
David Courtemanche
Resource Management
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Gaspé (QC)
(418) 368-5559
Michel Albert
Resource Management
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Tracadie (NB)
(506) 395-7718
Sylvette LeBlanc
Resource Management
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Cap-aux-Meules (QC)
(418) 986-2390
Paul Boyd
Resource Management
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Antigonish (NS)
(902) 863-5670
3
LOBSTER MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR 2009 AND BEYOND
LOBSTER MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR 2009 AND BEYOND
FOR LFAs 23, 24, 25, 26A, AND 26B – SOUTHERN GULF OF ST. LAWRENCE
Moncton – Further to the March 6, 2009, statement by the Minister, Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), Gulf Region, today provided the details of the management plan for Lobster Fishing Areas (LFAs) 23, 24, 25, 26A, and 26B in the southern Gulf of St. Lawrence.
The Department has contacted all fishing organizations to ascertain their interest in moving forward with their multi-year management plans. Based on their feedback, the following management measures apply and, in the case of First Nations, are subject to further consultations. New management measures in LFAs and sub-LFAs announced in 2008 for implementation in 2009 will be implemented as planned.
New Management Measures 2009
LFA 26B
As was the case in 2008, the LFA will be divided into north and south based on a management line to allow for different management measures. Existing management measures such a reduced number of traps, window on females, etc. remain in place. New management measures include:
LFA 26B North:
Year New Management Measure
2009 Minimum carapace size of 78 mm
Cheticamp Harbour permanently closed to lobster fishing
Opening date permanently set for 1st Saturday in May
2010 Minimum carapace size of 79 mm
Minimum of 5 traps per line
2011 Minimum carapace size of 80 mm
Maximum hoop size of 152 mm
2012 Minimum carapace size of 81 mm
Change to escape mechanism
Remove 1 day at end of the season.
**Once a 79 mm lobster is reached, it is possible that the window on females will be removed.
…../2
With respect to a request to permanently divide the LFA, further discussions are needed prior to a decision being made.
LFA 26B South:
Beginning in 2009, the number of traps is reduced from 300 to 275.
Sub-LFA 26A-2
The definition of the sub-LFA is being moved on a pilot basis a little over 6 kilometers westward and pertinent management measures apply. As already announced a maximum hoop size of 152 mm is being introduced throughout the sub-LFA.
LFA 23
This LFA, which was divided into three in 2008, will be further sub-divided beginning in 2009. Sub-LFA 23C is being divided on a permanent basis into north and south, LFA 23C and LFA 23D based on the management line implemented in 2008 to allow different management measures. Further details about the management measures in the sub-LFAs will be provided shortly.
The Departmental view is that it is imperative that all move forward on efforts to conserve and sustain the fishery, especially given that the Fisheries Resource Conservation Council’s (FRCC) report on lobster expressed concerns that the resource and the fishery are not as robust and resilient as could be expected for such an important industry in Atlantic Canada. Consequently, for organizations that have opted not to proceed with multi-year plans and for those who did not submit plans that address adequately the minimum carapace size and the long-term goals, they are being asked to work with DFO to continue development of longer term plans.
The FRCC report also included recommendations on the need for more complete data about the fishery. The Department will continue its consultations with stakeholders in 2009 with a view to having a comprehensive data collection system in place for the 2010 lobster fishing seasons.
The Department supports the study being undertaken by the Prince Edward Island Fishermen’s Association (PEIFA) to determine how to ensure biodegradable panels work effectively. It is expected that the results of the study will be available in the fall of 2009 and a modified panel will be in place for the 2010 fishery.
Further to a request from harvester organizations, the Department will authorize the retention of sculpin and cunner; however, this management measure will be reviewed in the future to ensure it is not having a detrimental impact on the ecosystem.
For information:
Ernest Ferguson
A/Area Director, Eastern NB
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Tracadie-Sheila, NB
506-395-7702 Bill Drost
Area Director, PEI
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Charlottetown, PEI
902-566-7810 Helen Kerr
Area Director, Gulf NS
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Antigonish, NS
902-863-5670
Notice to Fish Harvesters
Fishery (General) Regulations
March 23, 2009
Metric System in the Gulf Region
Over 20 years ago, the Government of Canada adopted the International System of Units (metric
system). However, up until now, Fisheries and Oceans Canada , in order to provide a transition
period for its clientele, accepted the use of both the imperial and metric systems. Recent court
decisions will no longer allow the use of the imperial system.
The present notice is to notify the fishing industry that as of April 1, 2009, all fish capture d,
retained and monitored by the Dockside Monitoring Program in the Gulf Region, are to be
reported using the metric system, whose unit of measurement of weight is the kilogram (kg).
This unit of measurement (kg) must be used on all documents associated with your fishing
activities, including landing operations.
The weight of your fish catches are to be indicated in kilogram (kg):on your combined form s which includes: the logbook and the weigh-out summary forms when providing hail-in information to a designated dockside monitoring company;on the scale used when weighing your catches;
on your weigh-out summary forms used by a dockside monitoring company;The need for fish harvesters to have their catches weighed using this unit of measure (kg) will bestipulated in licence conditions. Failure to comply with this obligation constitutes a violation
under the Section 22 (7) reads: “No person carrying out any
activity under the authority of a licence shall contravene or fail to comply with any condition of the licence”
The monitoring of captures is based on the metric system (kg) and licence holders are responsible for ensuring that this unit of measurement of weight is used to reflect the quantities caught andretained.
For further information:
Marc LeCouffe
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Resource Management Branch
Gulf Region
Moncton, NB
(506) 851-7845
Monica Cormier
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Conservation and Protection Branch
Gulf Region
Moncton, NB
(506) 851-3790
·
·
·
·
NOTICE TO FISHERS
October 23, 2008
ADJUSTMENTS TO DIMENTIONS ESCAPE MECHANISM - LOBSTER TRAP
Moncton – The Department of Fisheries and Oceans wishes to advise the lobster fishing industry in Lobster Fishing Areas (LFAs) 23, 24, 25, 26A and 26B of the minimum height and length requirements for escape mechanisms.
Further to recent discussions with some fishing organizations, it has come to DFO’s attention that a 254 mm long escape mechanism may pose some structural difficulties for some trap configurations. In consideration of this, the tables below provide the sizes of escape mechanisms that will apply.
Length of Escape Opening of 127 mm
Minimum carapace size Height of Escape Opening
70 mm to 71 mm 40 mm
>71 mm to 73 mm 42 mm
>73 mm to 76 mm 43 mm
>76 mm to 80 mm 44 mm
Length of Escape Opening of 254 mm
Minimum carapace size Height of Escape Opening
70 mm to 71 mm 40 mm
>71 mm to 73 mm 41 mm
>73 mm to 76 mm 42 mm
>76 mm to 80 mm 43 mm
DFO will undertake discussions with fishing organizations to identify a calendar for implementation of these adjustments as needed.
For Information:
Michel Albert Paul Boyd Kill Hill
(506) 395-7718 (902) 863-5670 902) 566-7815
|
