FISHERIES AND OCEANS CANADA RESPONSE TO PACIFIC HALIBUT MSC PERFORMANCE INDICATORS
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FISHERIES AND OCEANS CANADA RESPONSE TO PACIFIC
HALIBUT
MSC PERFORMANCE INDICATORS
The Pacific Wild Halibut Fishery has applied for certification of its fishery to the Marine
Stewardship Council (MSC). The accredited certifying body is Scientific Certification
Systems, Inc.
The MSC published the assessment team’s Evaluation Criteria for the Pacific Wild
Halibut Fishery (which included Performance Indicators and Scoring Guidelines)
describing in detail how the certification process will be conducted (Marine Stewardship
Council, 2005). The assessment team has defined a total of 80 indicators under three
Principles.
This document is Fisheries and Oceans Canada’s technical submission on the indicators
for the Pacific Wild Halibut Fishery for Principles 2 and 3.
For the purposes of this document:
• “directed species” is interchangeable with the term “target species”. Halibut is
the “directed species” in Canada’s Pacific wild halibut fishery.
• “non-directed species” are all other groundfish species incidentally caught while
fishing for the directed species. In Canada’s Pacific wild halibut fishery
sablefish, lingcod, dogfish, sole, skate and rockfish are examples of non-directed
species.
• “non-target species” are all other species incidentally caught when fishing for the
directed species (e.g., sub-legal groundfish species, non-groundfish fish species,
seabirds, corals, sponges, etc.,).
BACKGROUND – THE HOOK & LINE FISHERY FOR WILD HALIBUT
The Pacific commercial halibut fishery started in the late 1880s. As the halibut fleet grew
and overfishing became apparent, the industry asked the Canadian and US governments
for international management of the halibut resource. In 1924, under a signed
convention, the Canadian and US governments formed the International Fisheries
Commission (IFC) to manage the Pacific halibut resource. In 1953 the Convention was
modified and the IFC became the International Pacific Halibut Commission (IPHC).
Today the IPHC performs assessments and basic research on the Pacific halibut stocks,
sets total allowable catches (TACs) by fishing area, and determines regulatory measures
almost exclusively related to conservation issues (Casey et al., 1995).
In 1977, both Canada and the US extended their coastal jurisdiction to 200 miles. As a
result, in 1979, the 1953 Halibut Convention was modified to prevent Canadian halibut
vessels from fishing in US waters and US vessels from fishing in Canadian waters. The
1979 Convention modification also empowered the individual governments to impose
1fishing regulations on their own halibut fleets. In the same year, Canada imposed limited
entry on the halibut fleet and 435 vessels qualified to receive a commercial halibut (or
Category “L”) licence.
In 1989 a small group of halibut vessel owners approached Fisheries and Oceans Canada
(DFO) for assistance in developing an individual quota (IQ) program. As a result, an
Individual Vessel Quota (IVQ) system was implemented in the halibut fishery in 1991 on a
two-year trial basis with extensive input from industry participants.
During the trial period the IVQ system proved very successful at meeting conservation
objectives and improving the economic viability of the fleet. The IVQ program remains in
place today.
The fishery is cost-shared between government and industry. The industry currently funds
DFO fisheries management staff salaries, DFO fisheries management staff overtime, DFO
fisheries management staff travel, DFO computer programming, and departmental
equipment purchases ($108,000). The industry contracts with third party service providers
for a dockside monitoring program (100% of landings) and an at-sea monitoring program
(100% of sea days). The industry also funds various rockfish science initiatives ($485,000
in 2006). Halibut vessel owners also pay another $1.3 million in licence application fees to
DFO for the privilege of accessing the halibut resource.
The hook & line fishery for halibut is now managed on a multi-species basis. In 2006 a
three-year pilot program was implemented in Canada’s Pacific commercial groundfish
fisheries, commonly referred to as groundfish integration. Under this pilot program there is
100% at-sea monitoring, 100% dockside monitoring, individual vessel accountability for all
catch (both retained and released), individual vessel quotas and reallocation of these quotas
between vessels and fisheries to cover catches of non-directed species (retained and
released). Seven distinct commercial groundfish sector groups; Halibut (L), Sablefish (K),
Inside Rockfish (ZNI), Outside Rockfish (ZNO), Lingcod (Schedule II), Dogfish (Schedule
II) and Groundfish Trawl (T) are managed as distinct fisheries but are integrated as they
must reallocate IVQ between vessels and fisheries to cover catches of non-directed species
(retained and released).
• For more information on the groundfish integration pilot program, see Department
of Fisheries and Oceans – Pacific Region. Integrated Fisheries Management Plan
– Groundfish, April 1, 2006 to March 31, 2007, Section 13.
• For more information on the monitoring requirements for the groundfish integration
pilot program and the commercial hook & line fishery for halibut, see Department
of Fisheries and Oceans – Pacific Region. Integrated Fisheries Management Plan
– Groundfish, April 1, 2006 to March 31, 2007, Appendix 1.
• For more information on the management of the commercial hook & line fishery for
halibut, see Department of Fisheries and Oceans – Pacific Region. Integrated
2Fisheries Management Plan – Groundfish, April 1, 2006 to March 31, 2007,
Sections 1 to 13 and Appendix 6.
• The Department of Fisheries and Oceans – Pacific Region. Integrated Fisheries
Management Plan – Groundfish, March 10, 2007 to March 31, 2008 is now
available (http://www-ops2.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/xnet/content/MPLANS/MPlans.htm)
3MSC PRINCIPLE 2: Fishing operations should allow for the maintenance
of the structure, productivity, function and diversity
of the ecosystem (including habitat and associated
dependent and ecologically related species) on which
the fishery depends
2.1 (MSC Criterion 1): The fishery is conducted in a way that maintains
natural functional relationships among species and
should not lead to trophic cascades or ecosystem state
changes.
Subcriterion 2.1.1. There is adequate understanding of ecosystem factors
relevant to the distribution and life history strategy of
the target species.
Indicator 2.1.1.1. The nature and distribution of habitats relevant to
the fishing operations are known.
Response
It is generally acknowledged that the geographical distribution of the Pacific halibut
fishery is very well known. 1 Fishing distribution is monitored in detail and information
is recent.
For the hook & line fishery for halibut, the location of fishing operations is well
documented. By condition of licence fishing location must be reported through:
a) hail reporting requirements;
b) mandatory logbooks; 2
c) an at-sea monitoring program (either by observers or video-based electronic
monitoring systems that include GPS); and,
d) fish slip reporting requirements.
• See Conditions of 2006/2007 Halibut Licence.
• See Department of Fisheries and Oceans – Pacific Region. Integrated Fisheries
Management Plan – Groundfish, April 2006 to March 31, 2007, Appendix 1.
According to Hoag et al. (1997) there is a broad understanding of the habitats in which
the fishery is carried out. 3 Information and data on the nature and distribution of marine
habitats of Canada’s Pacific coast are collected and documented by Fisheries and Oceans
Canada. The vast majority (almost 90% in 2004) of the commercial halibut catch is taken
1
Scientific Certification Systems, Inc., page 47.
2
In addition, IPHC samplers review logbooks and verify fishing operation location with vessel masters at
the time of landing (Leaman 2004, 2005, 2006).
3
Scientific Certification Systems, Inc. (2006), page 47
4in the north coast area. 4 The marine ecosystems of the North Coast area (north of Cape
Caution) are discussed in Jamieson and Davis, 2004. DFO also recently completed a
summary of the current knowledge of cold water corals in British Columbia (Jamieson et
al., 2006).
Scoring Summary
The information presented establishes that the intent of indicator 2.1.1.1 has been met.
Both 60 Scoring Guideposts have been met.
Both 80 Scoring Guideposts have been achieved.
Both 100 Scoring Guideposts have been met.
4
IPHC Internet Page, Catch and Effort on the BC Coast, 1980 – 2004.
(http://www.iphc.washington.edu/halcom/commerci.htm)
5Indicator 2.1.1.2. Information is available on non-target species
affected by the fishery.
Response
The list of non-directed and non-target species affected by the hook & line fishery for
halibut…”is well documented as a result of the surveys conducted by the International
Pacific Halibut Commission.” 5 The IPHC also estimates the amount of sub-legal halibut
caught in the hook & line fishery for halibut and includes the mortality associated with
these sub-legal catches in its annual assessments (Leaman, 2006).
In addition, reporting catch of directed and non-directed species, octopus and seabirds in
the BC hook & line fishery for halibut is mandatory by condition of licence. Catch
(retained and released) is reported through a mandatory logbook program, a 100% at-sea
monitoring program and a 100% dockside monitoring program. The 100% at-sea
monitoring program allows DFO to monitor the directed, non-directed and non-target
species affected by the fishery.
• See Conditions of 2006/2007 Halibut Licence.
• See Department of Fisheries and Oceans – Pacific Region. Integrated Fisheries
Management Plan – Groundfish, April 2006 to March 31, 2007, Appendix 1.
• Summary data on catches in the BC hook & line fishery for halibut can be found
on the DFO Pacific Region website at the following link:
http://www-ops2.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/contractordata/rptsectorcatch%20summary.pdf
• Data on all species retained and released is also attached.
DFO's Science Branch, in partnership with the fishing industry and other government
agencies (i.e. U.S. National Marine Fisheries Service and the International Pacific
Halibut Commission), have significantly increased the emphasis on multi-species
indexing surveys.
Fourteen different surveys are now conducted on an annual or biennial rotation. They
provide abundance indices for groundfish and the supporting specimen data on size or
age composition. Most of these began after 2000, and even the previously established
surveys have been modified recently to be more effective for groundfish indexing. The
data being gathered through these surveys includes biological data, age composition data,
and life history. As information is continually gathered from the fourteen new and
modified established surveys, this will help DFO better understand the effects of
exploitation.
While this information is being compiled, individual stocks of rockfish are assessed as
outlined below:
5
Scientific Certification Systems, Inc., 2006, page 47.
6Rougheye rockfish: No formal assessment model; interpretation of commercial
CPUE trends. (Latest assessment document available at http://www.dfo-
mpo.gc.ca/csas/csas/publications/resdocs-docrech/2005/2005_096_e.htm)
Rougheye Halibut
2006 Landed Catch (lbs)
319,021 11,711,285
(Dockside Monitoring Program)
Redbanded rockfish: No formal assessment model; interpretation of commercial
CPUE trends. (Latest assessment document available at http://www.dfo-
mpo.gc.ca/csas/Csas/Publications/ResDocs-DocRech/2006/2006_073_e.htm).
Redbanded Halibut
2006 Landed Catch (lbs)
328,490 11,711,285
(Dockside Monitoring Program)
Silvergrey rockfish - Catch-at-age analysis tuned with commercial CPUE. Yields
determined from target reference points for F (Latest assessment document available
at http://www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/sci/psarc/ResDocs/2002_128_e.pdf).
Silvergrey Halibut
2006 Landed Catch (lbs)
93,103 11,711,285
(Dockside Monitoring Program)
Canary rockfish - Catch-curve analysis and trends in surveys. Harvest based on
target reference points for F (fishing mortality). (Latest assessment document
available at http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/csas/Csas/publications/ResDocs-
DocRech/1999/1999_203_e.htm).
Canary Halibut
2006 Landed Catch (lbs)
16,397 11,711,285
(Dockside Monitoring Program)
Bocaccio – Interpretation of trends in survey indices. (Latest assessment document
available at http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/csas/Csas/publications/ResDocs-
DocRech/2004/2004_027_e.htm).
Bocaccio Halibut
2006 Landed Catch (lbs)
15,382 11,711,285
(Dockside Monitoring Program)
Yellowtail rockfish - Catch-at-age analysis and previous harvest levels (Latest
assessment document available at http://www.dfo-
mpo.gc.ca/csas/Csas/publications/ResDocs-DocRech/1997/1997_132_e.htm).
Yellowtail Halibut
72006 Landed Catch (lbs)
2,829 11,711,285
(Dockside Monitoring Program)
Widow rockfish - Quotas based on previous harvests (Stanley, R. D. 1995. Shelf
rockfish assessments for 1995 and recommended yield options for 1996. PSARC
Working Paper G95-10).
Widow Halibut
2006 Landed Catch (lbs)
122 11,711,285
(Dockside Monitoring Program)
Longspine thornyhead – A directed survey was conducted (2001-2003) to assess
relative abundance trends during that period. This is augmented by interpretation of
commercial CPUE (Latest assessment document is available at http://www.dfo-
mpo.gc.ca/csas/Csas/publications/ResDocs-DocRech/2004/2004_059_e.htm)
Longspine Halibut
Thornyhead
2006 Landed Catch (lbs)
122 11,711,285
(Dockside Monitoring Program)
Pacific ocean perch – Commercial CPUE analysis (Latest assessment document is
available at http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/csas/Csas/publications/ResDocs-
DocRech/1999/1999_016_e.htm).
POP Halibut
2006 Landed Catch (lbs)
909 11,711,285
(Dockside Monitoring Program)
Shortraker rockfish - Commercial CPUE analysis (Latest assessment document is
available at http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/csas/Csas/publications/ResDocs-
DocRech/1999/1999_016_e.htm).
Shortraker Halibut
2006 Landed Catch (lbs)
52,595 11,711,285
(Dockside Monitoring Program)
Yellowmouth rockfish - Commercial CPUE analysis (Latest assessment document is
available at http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/csas/Csas/publications/ResDocs-
DocRech/1999/1999_016_e.htm).
Yellowmouth Halibut
2006 Landed Catch (lbs)
24,717 11,711,285
(Dockside Monitoring Program)
8Shortspine thornyhead - Commercial CPUE analysis (Latest assessment document is
available at http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/csas/Csas/publications/ResDocs-
DocRech/1999/1999_016_e.htm).
Shortspine Halibut
Thornyhead
2006 Landed Catch (lbs)
120,504 11,711,285
(Dockside Monitoring Program)
Redstripe rockfish - Commercial CPUE analysis (Latest assessment document is
available at http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/csas/Csas/publications/ResDocs-
DocRech/1999/1999_016_e.htm).
Redstripe Halibut
2006 Landed Catch (lbs)
170 11,711,285
(Dockside Monitoring Program)
Yelloweye rockfish – age based catch curve analyses with estimates of fishing and
natural mortality (F and M); target harvest rates were selected using an optimal
rockfish harvest rate FOPT ≤ 0.5 M. Latest assessment document is available at
http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/csas/Csas/publications/ResDocs-
DocRech/2001/2001_139_e.htm).
Yelloweye Halibut
2006 Landed Catch (lbs)
268,428 11,711,285
(Dockside Monitoring Program)
Quillback rockfish – age based catch curve analyses with estimates of fishing and
natural mortality (F and M); target harvest rates were selected using an optimal
rockfish harvest rate FOPT ≤ 0.5 M. Latest assessment document is available at
http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/csas/Csas/publications/ResDocs-
DocRech/2001/2001_139_e.htm).
Quillback Halibut
2006 Landed Catch (lbs)
61,383 11,711,285
(Dockside Monitoring Program)
All other rockfish captured in the halibut fishery (i.e. copper, china, black, tiger,
darkblotched, rosethorn, greenstriped, dusky, vermilion, sharpchin, aurora, splitnose,
blackgill and bank rockfish) are unassessed.
Copper Halibut
2006 Landed Catch (lbs)
5,091 11,711,285
(Dockside Monitoring Program)
China Halibut
92006 Landed Catch (lbs)
2,640 11,711,285
(Dockside Monitoring Program)
Black Halibut
2006 Landed Catch (lbs)
1,503 11,711,285
(Dockside Monitoring Program)
Tiger Halibut
2006 Landed Catch (lbs)
1,897 11,711,285
(Dockside Monitoring Program)
Darkblotched Halibut
2006 Landed Catch (lbs)
1,606 11,711,285
(Dockside Monitoring Program)
Rosethorn Halibut
2006 Landed Catch (lbs)
3,087 11,711,285
(Dockside Monitoring Program)
Greenstriped Halibut
2006 Landed Catch (lbs)
1,621 11,711,285
(Dockside Monitoring Program)
Dusky Halibut
2006 Landed Catch (lbs)
196 11,711,285
(Dockside Monitoring Program)
Vermilion Halibut
2006 Landed Catch (lbs)
507 11,711,285
(Dockside Monitoring Program)
Sharpchin Halibut
2006 Landed Catch (lbs)
75 11,711,285
(Dockside Monitoring Program)
Aurora Halibut
2006 Landed Catch (lbs)
12 11,711,285
(Dockside Monitoring Program)
Splitnose Halibut
2006 Landed Catch (lbs)
6 11,711,285
(Dockside Monitoring Program)
Blackgill Halibut
2006 Landed Catch (lbs) 4 11,711,285
10(Dockside Monitoring Program)
Bank Halibut
2006 Landed Catch (lbs)
0 11,711,285
(Dockside Monitoring Program)
Though the groundfish integration pilot has focused on the directed and non-directed
catch of all groundfish species, the mandatory logbook and at-sea monitoring programs
currently in place enable DFO to gather information on non-target species (non-
groundfish fish species, seabirds, marine mammals, corals, sponges, etc.,) affected by the
hook & line fishery for halibut. With more comprehensive data on all non-target species
the management approach can be adapted through time, on the basis of those data that are
archived and made available for review.
The management of migratory birds is the responsibility of Environment Canada through
the Canadian Wildlife Service (CWS). CWS currently undertakes monitoring programs
to provide information on the status of seabird species and identifies threats to their
populations and to their habitats. These monitoring programs are conducted at Haida
Gwaii (Queen Charlotte Islands), Triangle Island, Desolation Sound and Georgia Basin
(south coastal BC) and provide population trend data
(http://www.ecoinfo.ec.gc.ca/env_ind/region/seabird/seabird_e.cfm).
However, some of the scavenging seabirds breed in other areas and only visit Canada’s
Pacific coast outside the breeding season. The CWS routinely conducts at sea surveys
(aboard Coast Guard vessels) to monitor abundance, distribution, and seasonality of
pelagic seabirds off the west coast of Canada. The data, spanning more than 18 years, are
being analyzed and will be used to produce an atlas of the seasonal distribution of all
pelagic seabirds off Canada’s west coast
(http://www.speciesatrisk.gc.ca/search/speciesDetails_e.cfm?SpeciesID=797#limits).
In addition, the IPHC documents sightings of seabirds as part of its annual setline survey
program (Melvin et. al, 2004a & Leaman, 2006).
In 2000, the commercial halibut fleet voluntarily introduced seabird avoidance devices
and practices into the fishery and requested DFO make these measures a mandatory
requirement while fishing halibut. In 2002, seabird avoidance devices and practices
became a mandatory condition of licence in all the commercial halibut, sablefish and
rockfish longline fisheries in Pacific Canada.
• See Department of Fisheries and Oceans – Pacific Region. Integrated Fisheries
Management Plan – Groundfish, April 2006 to March 31, 2007, Section 8.4.
• See Conditions of 2006/2007 Halibut Licence, Section 16.
In 2005, CWS undertook an assessment of seabird bycatch in British Columbia’s net and
longline fisheries (Smith and Morgan, 2005). The report made a number of
11recommendations, many of which have been adopted in the hook & line fishery for
halibut.
In addition, Canada is currently completing a response to the UN FAO International Plan
of Action (IPOA) for Seabirds. Canada has a National Seabird Bycatch Working Group
(NSBWG), made up of staff from DFO and Environment Canada, that was established to
oversee the preparation of the National Plan of Action (NPOA) – Seabirds. 6 This group
will also oversee the implementation of this NPOA. Canada’s NPOA-Seabirds. To
accomplish this task, the working group will continue to work with industry and non-
governmental organizations, as appropriate.
There is no evidence to suggest there are significant interactions with marine mammals or
sea turtles. However, DFO has proposed amendments to the Marine Mammal
Regulations that will require operators of fishing vessels to record and report any contact
with a marine mammal. 7
Information on populations and distributions of killer whales can be found in Barrett-
Lennard and Ellis (2001) and on the Species at Risk website
http://www.speciesatrisk.gc.ca/search/speciesResults_e.cfm?lang=e&common=killer%20
whale&op=1&latin=&taxid=0&stid=0&disid=1%2c18).
Information on populations and distributions of pinnipeds can be found in Olesiuk
(1999).
Scoring Summary
The information presented establishes that the intent of indicator 2.1.1.2 has been met.
The 60 Scoring Guidepost has been met.
The 80 Scoring Guideposts has been met.
The 100 Scoring Guidepost has been met.
6
Canada is currently in the process of consulting the public and interested stakeholders on its NPOA –
Seabirds. Following this consultation, Canada is planning to present the finalized NPOA – Seabirds to the
United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization’s (FAO) Committee on Fisheries at its next session in
March 2007. Canada’s NPOA – Seabirds can be viewed on the following webpage:
www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/consultations/index_e.htm
7
See Section 10 of the proposed amendments to the Marine Mammal Regulations
(http://www-comm.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/pages/consultations/marinemammals/mmr-update_e.htm)
12Indicator 2.1.1.3. Information is available on the position and
importance of the target species within the food web.
Response
The IPHC has conducted a great deal of research into the ecology of halibut, the
fundamentals are well known and the IPHC has ongoing research programs focussed on
the aspects of uncertainty important to fish stock evaluation and management (Scientific
Certification Systems, 2006). Examples of the IPHC research include Leaman (2004,
2005, 2006), Best and St-Pierre (1986) and St-Pierre and Trumble (2000). IPHC reports
are listed at http://www.iphc.washington.edu/halcom.
Scoring Summary
The information presented establishes that the intent of indicator 2.1.1.3 has been met.
The 60 Scoring Guidepost has been met.
The 80 Scoring Guideposts has been met.
The 100 Scoring Guidepost has been met.
13Indicator 2.1.1.4. There is information on the potential for the
ecosystem to recover from fishery related impacts.
Response
The elements of the ecosystem (directed, non-directed and non-target species) that are
impacted by the hook & line fishery for halibut are well documented due to the catch
reporting and monitoring programs in place. See response to Indicator 2.1.1.2.
Although a comprehensive catch reporting and monitoring program is in place in the
hook & line fishery for halibut, DFO will still adopt additional measures to ensure
affected elements of the ecosystem recover from fishery-related impacts. For example,
one of the five guiding principles DFO identified for the commercial groundfish sector
states, “Species and stocks of concern will be closely monitored and actions such as
reductions of TACs and other catch limits will be considered and implemented to be
consistent with the precautionary approach for management.”
• See Department of Fisheries and Oceans – Pacific Region. Integrated Fisheries
Management Plan – Groundfish, April 2006 to March 31, 2007, Section 4.
One example of DFO taking action to ensure affected elements of the ecosystem can
recover from fishery related impacts is the 2002 Inshore Rockfish Strategy (DFO 2002,
DFO 2006). The strategy addressed four areas under the fisheries management and stock
assessment regime to protect inshore rockfish from fishery related impacts:
a) Protect a part of inshore rockfish populations from harvest through the use of
rockfish conservation areas (RCAs) that are closed to fishing. 8
b) Collect information on total fishery mortalities through improved catch
monitoring programs.
c) Reduce harvests to levels that are less than the estimates of natural mortality (i.e.,
less than two percent). As a result lower TACs were adopted in the commercial
fisheries
d) Improve the ability to assess the status of inshore rockfish populations and
monitor changes in abundance.
Another example of DFO taking action to ensure affected elements of the ecosystem can
recover from fishery related impacts is the introduction of closed areas to preserve four
sponge reefs located in waters off central and northern British Columbia. While these
measures currently apply to the groundfish trawl fishery, DFO continues to monitor
fishing activity in adjacent areas to ensure current measures continue to provide the
needed protection of sponge reef ecosystems.
8
There are currently 164 RCAs along the coast of British Columbia (http://www-comm.pac.dfo-
mpo.gc.ca/pages/consultations/fisheriesmgmt/rockfish/default_e.htm).
14• See Department of Fisheries and Oceans – Pacific Region. Integrated Fisheries
Management Plan – Groundfish, April 2006 to March 31, 2007, Section 8.1.
With respect to scavenging seabirds, according to Scientific Certifications Systems
(2006), the requirements to permit recovery of populations, such as albatross, are well
known. As noted in the response to Indictor 2.1.1.2., Canada is currently completing a
response to the UN FAO International Plan of Action (IPOA) for Seabirds. Canada has a
National Seabird Bycatch Working Group (NSBWG), made up of staff from DFO and
Environment Canada, that was established to oversee the preparation of the National Plan
of Action (NPOA) – Seabirds. This group will also oversee the implementation of this
NPOA. To accomplish this task, the working group will continue to work with industry
and non-governmental organizations, as appropriate.
Scoring Summary
The information presented establishes that the intent of indicator 2.1.1.4 has been met.
The 60 Scoring Guidepost has been met.
The 80 Scoring Guideposts has been met.
The 100 Scoring Guidepost has been met.
15Subcriterion 2.1.2. There is adequate understanding of ecosystem factors
relevant to the distribution and life history strategy of
the target species.
Indicator 2.1.2.1. Information is available on the nature and extent of
the bycatch (capture of non-target species).
Response
Non-directed and non-target species caught (retained and released) in the hook & line
fishery for halibut are well documented due to the catch reporting and monitoring
programs in place. See responses to Indicator 2.1.1.2 and Indicator 2.1.1.4.
DFO also obtains information on non-target species’ size, age and sex composition
through its port sampling program (DFO has two full-time port samplers who take
random samples from commercial landings in all areas of the coast), through samples
taken by at-sea observers on trawl and hook & line groundfish vessels and through
samples taken by field staff of research trips.
Scoring Summary
The information presented establishes that the intent of indicator 2.1.2.1 has been met.
The 60 Scoring Guidepost has been met.
Both 80 Scoring Guideposts have been met.
The 100 Scoring Guidepost has been met.
16Indicator 2.1.2.2. Information is available on the extent of discards (the
proportion of the catch not landed).
Response
Non-directed and non-target species caught (retained and released) in the hook & line
fishery for halibut are well documented due to the catch reporting and monitoring
programs in place. See responses to Indicator 2.1.1.2 and Indicator 2.1.1.4.
Vessels in the BC hook & line fishery for halibut may release groundfish but the
estimated mortality associated with these releases is, where applicable, counted against
the vessel’s IVQ (and annual IVQ species cap) or trip limit for the species in question. A
vessel’s catch is calculated by adding both landed weight and the estimated mortality of
all catch either utilized at-sea or released at-sea. Vessels landing fish in excess of the
IVQ holdings identified in licence condition and allowable overages are restricted from
further fishing opportunities until such time as additional IVQ has been acquired.
The exceptions to this rule are sub-legal sized halibut, sub-legal sized lingcod, sub-legal
sized sablefish and unmarketable dogfish; these categories may be released at-sea without
being counted against a vessel’s IVQ provided all releases occur within view of the at-sea
observer or at-sea electronic monitoring system (however, these releases must be reported
and are documented by DFO).
Vessels utilizing an electronic monitoring system are not permitted to release rockfish; all
rockfish must be retained. Vessels carrying an at-sea observer are permitted to release
rockfish but the estimated mortality associated with these releases is, where applicable,
counted against the vessel’s IVQ (and annual IVQ species cap) or trip limit for the
species in question.
• For more information see Department of Fisheries and Oceans – Pacific Region.
Integrated Fisheries Management Plan – Groundfish, April 2006 to March 31,
2007, Sections 1-13, Appendix 1 and Appendix 6.
Scoring Summary
The information presented establishes that the intent of indicator 2.1.2.2 has been met.
The 60 Scoring Guidepost has been met.
The 80 Scoring Guideposts has been met.
The 100 Scoring Guidepost has been met.
17Indicator 2.1.2.3. There is information on any unobserved fishing
mortality (i.e. sources of mortality other than those
above).
Response
Unobserved fishing mortality is considered to be rather a minor issue in most longline
fisheries (Scientific Certification Systems, 2006).
Survival rates of sublegal halibut caught on the longlines has been measured and these
data are used in the estimation of fishing mortality (Leaman, 2004, 2006, 2006).
Information on lost gear is collected from fishing logs and dockside logbook interviews
conducted by the IPHC; this information is used to estimate unaccounted mortality of
halibut (Leaman 2004, 2005, 2006). In the BC hook & line fishery for halibut logbooks
can also be audited for sub-legal halibut catches and lost gear using the at-sea monitoring
program (observer or electronic monitoring system) in place.
Scoring Summary
The information presented establishes that the intent of indicator 2.1.2.3 has been met.
The 60 Scoring Guidepost has been met.
The 80 Scoring Guideposts has been met.
The 100 Scoring Guidepost has been met.
18Subcriterion 2.1.3. There is adequate knowledge of the effects of gear-use
on the receiving ecosystem and extent and type of
gear losses.
Indicator 2.1.3.1. There is adequate knowledge of the physical impacts
on the habitat due to use of gear, and impacts are
kept below unacceptable levels.
Response
As outlined in Section 8.1 of the Department of Fisheries and Oceans – Pacific Region.
Integrated Fisheries Management Plan – Groundfish, April 2006 to March 31, 2007, has
implemented measures to preserve four sponge reefs located in waters off central and
northern British Columbia. While the measures currently apply to the groundfish trawl
fishery, DFO continues to monitor fishing activity in adjacent areas to ensure current
measures continue to provide the needed protection of sponge reef ecosystems.
By regulation, halibut can only be harvested by hook & line gear on Canada’s Pacific
coast. 9 It is generally acknowledged that the impacts of trawling are much greater than
anchored passive gears such as long-lines and traps (Ardon and Jamieson 2006, Fossa et
al 2002). Therefore, the halibut fishery avoids major impacts on habitat as it is entirely a
hook & line fishery (Scientific Certification Systems, 2006).
The catch reporting and at-sea monitoring programs provide a record of catches (directed,
non-directed and non-target) and fishing effort by area. This information includes any
coral or sponge brought aboard during fishing operations.
DFO has undertaken research on reducing bycatch of corals and sponges in the BC trawl
fishery (Ardon and Jamieson, 2006) but continues to monitor catches of non-target
species in the hook and line fishery for halibut.
Scoring Summary
The information presented establishes that the intent of indicator 2.1.3.1 has been met.
Both 60 Scoring Guidepost have been met.
Both 80 Scoring Guideposts have been met.
9
Department of Justice, Pacific (Fisheries) Regulations, 1993, Part IX, Section 76. It should be noted that
starting in 2007, commercial sablefish vessels using trap gear will be able to retain incidentally caught
halibut as part of the groundfish integration initiative.
19Indicator 2.1.3.2. Any gear lost during fishing operations is
documented, and management seeks to minimize
losses.
Response
Information on lost gear is collected from fishing logs and dockside logbook interviews
conducted by the IPHC; this information is used to estimate unaccounted mortality of
halibut (Leaman 2004, 2005, 2006). In the BC hook & line fishery for halibut logbooks
can also be audited for lost gear using the at-sea monitoring program (observer or
electronic monitoring systems).
Since 1991, the hook & line fishery for halibut has been managed under an IVQ regime
which has led to a slower-paced fishery. The reported level of gear loss is estimated to be
low and appears to be relatively constant (Leaman 2004, 2005, 2006).
Scoring Summary
The information presented establishes that the intent of indicator 2.1.3.2 has been met.
The 60 Scoring Guidepost has been met.
Both the 80 Scoring Guideposts have been met.
The first 100 Scoring Guidepost has been met. The second 100 Scoring Guidepost has
been met for the directed (or “target”) species.
20Subcriterion 2.1.4. Strategies have been developed within the fisheries
management system to address and restrain any
significant negative impacts of the fishery on the
ecosystem.
Indicator 2.1.4.1. Levels of acceptable impact are determined and
reviewed.
Response
A number of strategies have been developed within the fisheries management system for
the hook & line fishery for halibut to address and restrain any significant impacts on the
ecosystem.
Halibut can only be harvested by hook & line gear on Canada’s Pacific coast. 10 The
hook & line fishery for halibut is managed under an IVQ regime on a multi-species basis;
directed, non-directed and non-target species caught (retained and released) are well
documented due to the catch reporting and monitoring programs in place and ensure
allowable harvest levels are not exceeded. The use of seabird avoidance devices and
measures is mandatory in the fishery and Canada is drafting a response to the UN
International Plan of Action - Seabirds. Closed areas have been implemented to protect
species of concern and DFO continues to monitor sensitive areas and stocks of concern.
See responses to Indicator 2.1.1.2, Indicator 2.1.1.4, Indicator 2.1.2.2 and Indicator
2.1.3.1.
While the measures have been taken to ensure any impacts the hook & line fishery for
halibut has on the ecosystem are taken into consideration (and mitigated where possible),
DFO has recognized the need fully incorporate ecosystem considerations into the
management of fisheries in a consistent and systematic way.
• Four of the five management issues identified in Section 8 of the 2006/07
groundfish management plan are focussed on ecosystem issues.
• DFO has taken a number of steps to identify, manage and protect sensitive marine
ecosystems and species. Many of these initiatives, such as Canada’s Ocean
Action Plan and Marine Protected Areas, are discussed in Canada’s submission to
the United Nations. 11
DFO is also currently developing a Fisheries Sustainable Development Framework that
will include: (1) a decision-making framework based on the precautionary approach to
assist in making fisheries decisions; (2) a new set of national policies to help better
10
It should be noted that starting in 2007, commercial sablefish vessels using trap gear will be able to retain
incidentally caught halibut as part of the groundfish integration initiative.
11
Canada’s Submission to the United Nations can be found at http://www.dfo-
mpo.gc.ca/misc/un59_25_e.htm
21integrate ecosystem considerations in the management of fisheries (i.e., forage species,
sensitive benthic habitat areas, by-catch); and, (3) fisheries sustainability reports to
monitor progress towards sustainability in all key Canadian fisheries, including
implementation of the precautionary approach and ecosystem considerations.
Scoring Summary
The information presented establishes that the intent of indicator 2.1.4.1 has been met.
The 60 Scoring Guidepost has been met.
The 80 Scoring Guidepost has been met.
The 100 Scoring Guidepost has been met.
22Indicator 2.1.4.2. Management objectives are set in terms of impact
identification and avoidance/reduction.
Response
See response to Indicator 2.1.4.1.
DFO has set a number of management objectives to detect and reduce impacts in the
commercial groundfish sector (which apply to the hook & line fishery for halibut). For
example, in 2002 DFO introduced its Inshore Rockfish Strategy (DFO 2002, DFO 2006).
The strategy addressed four areas under the fisheries management and stock assessment
regime to protect inshore rockfish from fishery related impacts:
1. Protect a part of inshore rockfish populations from harvest through the use of
rockfish conservation areas (RCAs) that are closed to fishing.
2. Collect information on total fishery mortalities through improved catch
monitoring programs.
3. Reduce harvests to levels that are less than the estimates of natural mortality (i.e.,
less than two percent). As a result lower TACs were adopted in the commercial
fisheries
4. Improve the ability to assess the status of inshore rockfish populations and
monitor changes in abundance.
In 2003 DFO identified five guiding principles that the commercial groundfish sector had
to meet for the future:
a) All rockfish catch must be accounted for.
b) Rockfish catches will be managed according to established rockfish management
areas.
c) Fishers will be individually accountable for their catch.
d) New monitoring standards will be established and implemented to meet the about
three objectives.
e) Species and stocks of concern will be closely examined and actions such as
reductions of TACs and other catch limit will be considered and implemented to
be consistent with the precautionary approach for management.
These guiding principles led to the development of the integrated groundfish
management regime and catch reporting and monitoring programs in place in the hook &
line fishery for halibut today. See responses to Indicator 2.1.1.2, Indicator 2.1.1.4,
Indicator 2.1.2.2 and Indicator 2.1.3.1.
Four of the five management issues identified in Section 8 of the 2006/07 groundfish
management plan are focussed on impact identification and avoidance/reduction.
Scoring Summary
23The information presented establishes that the intent of indicator 2.1.4.2 has been met.
The 60 Scoring Guidepost has been met.
Both 80 Scoring Guideposts have been met.
Both 100 Scoring Guideposts have been met.
24Subcriterion 2.1.5. Assessments of impacts associated with the fishery
including the significance and risk of each impact
show no unacceptable impacts on the ecosystem
structure and/or function, on habitats or on the
populations of associated species.
Indicator 2.1.5.1. All the significant effects of the fishery on the
ecosystem have been identified.
Response
A number of strategies have been developed within the fisheries management system for
the hook & line fishery for halibut to ensure all the significant effects of the fishery on
the ecosystem have been identified.
See response to Indicator 2.1.4.1.
Scoring Summary
The information presented establishes that the intent of indicator 2.1.5.1 has been met.
The 60 Scoring Guidepost has been met.
The 80 Scoring Guidepost has been met.
The 100 Scoring Guidepost has been met.
25Indicator 2.1.5.2. The impacts on ecosystem structure and function
from removal of target stocks are held below
unacceptable levels.
Response
As noted in Scientific Certifications Systems (2006), “Harvesting of halibut is
conservative in terms of stock size and fishing mortality rate…and there is no evidence to
suggest that removal of halibut at the present fishing rate has an adverse impact on
ecosystem structure or function.” 12
Scoring Summary
The information presented establishes that the intent of indicator 2.1.5.2 has been met.
Both 60 Scoring Guideposts have been met.
Both 80 Scoring Guideposts have been met.
The 100 Scoring Guidepost has been met.
12
Scientific Certification Systems (2006), Page 57.
26Indicator 2.1.5.3. The impacts on ecosystem structure and function
from removal of non-target stocks are held below
unacceptable levels.
Response
Halibut can only be harvested by hook & line gear on Canada’s Pacific coast. 13 The
hook & line fishery for halibut is managed under an IVQ regime on a multi-species basis;
directed, non-directed and non-target species caught (retained and released) are well
documented due to the catch reporting and monitoring programs in place and ensure
catches (retained and released) stay within allowable harvest levels. Threshold levels to
address seabird bycatch are being developed and mitigation measures have been adopted.
Closed areas have been implemented to protect species of concern and DFO continues to
monitor sensitive areas and stocks of concern. See responses to Indicator 2.1.1.2,
Indicator 2.1.1.4, Indicator 2.1.2.2, Indicator 2.1.3.1 and to Indicator 2.1.4.1.
As one of its stated guiding principles for the commercial groundfish sector, DFO
continues to closely examine species and stocks of concern and actions will be
considered and implemented to be consistent with the precautionary approach for
management (DFO, 2006). Examples of such actions include reductions in TACs for
certain rockfish species and the introduction of Rockfish Conservation Areas that are
closed to fishing (DFO, 2006).
Scoring Summary
The information presented establishes that the intent of indicator 2.1.5.3 has been met.
Both 60 Scoring Guideposts have been met.
Both 80 Scoring Guideposts have been met.
The 100 Scoring Guideposts has been met.
13
It should be noted that starting in 2007, commercial sablefish vessels using trap gear will be able to retain
incidentally caught halibut as part of the groundfish integration initiative.
27Indicator 2.1.5.4. Fishery impacts on habitat structure are held below
unacceptable levels.
Response
By regulation, halibut can only be harvested by hook & line gear on Canada’s Pacific
coast. 14 It is generally acknowledged that the impacts of trawling are much greater than
anchored passive gears such as long-lines and traps (Ardon and Jamieson 2006, Fossa et
al 2002). Therefore, the halibut fishery avoids major impacts on habitat as it is entirely a
hook & line fishery (Scientific Certification Systems, 2006).
The catch reporting and at-sea monitoring programs provide a record of catches (directed,
non-directed and non-target) and fishing effort by area. This information includes any
coral or sponge brought aboard during fishing operations.
DFO has undertaken research on reducing bycatch of corals and sponges in the BC
fisheries. To date much of the work has focussed on the trawl fishery (Ardon and
Jamieson, 2006), however, similar work is currently underway with respect to longline
gear.
As outlined in Section 8.1 of the Department of Fisheries and Oceans – Pacific Region.
Integrated Fisheries Management Plan – Groundfish, April 2006 to March 31, 2007, has
implemented measures to preserve four sponge reefs located in waters off central and
northern British Columbia. While the measures currently apply to the groundfish trawl
fishery, DFO continues to monitor fishing activity in adjacent areas to ensure current
measures continue to provide the needed protection of sponge reef ecosystems.
DFO has taken a number of steps to identify, manage and protect sensitive marine
ecosystems and species. Many of these initiatives, such as Canada’s Ocean Action Plan
and Marine Protected Areas, are discussed in Canada’s submission to the United
Nations. 15
DFO is also currently developing a Fisheries Sustainable Development Framework that
will include: (1) a decision-making framework based on the precautionary approach to
assist in making fisheries decisions; (2) a new set of national policies to help better
integrate ecosystem considerations in the management of fisheries (i.e., forage species,
sensitive benthic habitat areas, by-catch); and, (3) fisheries sustainability reports to
monitor progress towards sustainability in all key Canadian fisheries, including
implementation of the precautionary approach and ecosystem considerations.
14
Department of Justice, Pacific (Fisheries) Regulations, 1993, Part IX, Section 76. It should be noted that
starting in 2007, commercial sablefish vessels using trap gear will be able to retain incidentally caught
halibut as part of the groundfish integration initiative.
15
Canada’s Submission to the United Nations can be found at http://www.dfo-
mpo.gc.ca/misc/un59_25_e.htm
28Scoring Summary
The information presented establishes that the intent of indicator 2.1.5.4 has been met.
The 60 Scoring Guidepost has been met.
The 80 Scoring Guidepost has been met.
The 100 Scoring Guidepost has been met.
29Indicator 2.1.5.5. The effects of the fishery on associated biological
diversity and productivity are held below
unacceptable levels.
Response
See response to Indicator 2.1.4.1.
Scoring Summary
The information presented establishes that the intent of indicator 2.1.5.5 has been met.
The 60 Scoring Guidepost has been met.
The 80 Scoring Guidepost has been met.
The 100 Scoring Guidepost has been met.
302.2 (MSC Criterion 2): The fishery is conducted in a manner that does not
threaten biological diversity (at the genetic, species or
population levels and avoids or minimizes mortality
of, or injuries to endangered, threatened or protected
species.
Subcriterion 2.2.1. Fishing is conducted in a manner that does not have
unacceptable impacts on recognized protected,
endangered or threatened species.
Indicator 2.2.1.1. There is information on the presence and populations
of listed and protected species.
The only species listed as protected, threatened or endangered under Canada’s Species at
Risk Act that may be encountered in the BC hook & line fishery for halibut is the short-
tailed albatross. However there has never been a record of a short-tailed albatross being
caught in the hook & line fishery for halibut in either logbooks or at-sea monitoring data
(observers or electronic video monitoring). Similarly, observers on IPHC setline surveys
have not recorded a short-tailed albatross in Canadian waters (Melvin et al. 2004a,
Leaman 2004, Leaman 2005, Leaman 2006).
The biology, numbers, distribution and population dynamics of short-tailed albatross are
very well known (Clark 2000, Rappoport 2003a,b, Species at Risk Website). A draft
recovery strategy is being developed under Canada’s Species at Risk Act for short-tailed
albatross. 16 However, as noted in Scientific Certification Systems (2006), the numbers of
short-tailed albatross have been increasing steadily for several decades, indicating that
this population should recover even without any reduction of interaction with the halibut
fishery. In addition, they note that,
“…the halibut fishery has not been in any way responsible for contributing
to the endangered status of the short-tailed albatross. The species was
reduced to the verge of extinction by direct human persecution, at a time
when there was no longline fishery for halibut. There is clear
understanding that the population will recover if demographics remain as
they are now…” 17
The Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC) designated
Bocaccio rockfish as threatened in 2002. However, in November 2005 the Government
of Canada decided to refer the assessments of bocaccio rockfish back to COSEWIC for
further information and consideration as “…two scientific assessments subsequent to that
16
Species at Risk Website:
http://www.speciesatrisk.gc.ca/search/speciesDetails_e.cfm?SpeciesID=797#limits)
17
Scientific Certification Systems (2006), page 64.
31by COSEWIC reported a different species abundance; there is also a lack of confidence
in the strength of the data used to support the COSEWIC assessment.” 18
• In 2004, DFO completed an update on the stock status of bocaccio rockfish
(Stanley et al., 2004). DFO also completed an allowable harm assessment for
bocaccio rockfish in 2004 that concluded that recent catch levels were low enough
that they did not place recovery of the stock in jeopardy (DFO, 2004).
• For more information on bocaccio rockfish see Department of Fisheries and Oceans
– Pacific Region. Integrated Fisheries Management Plan – Groundfish, April
2006 to March 31, 2007, Sections 8.3.
Scoring Summary
The information presented establishes that the intent of indicator 2.2.1.1 has been met.
The 60 Scoring Guidepost has been met.
The 80 Scoring Guidepost has been met.
Both 100 Scoring Guideposts have been met.
18
Canada Gazette Vol. 140, No. 8 (http://canadagazette.gc.ca/partII/2006/20060419/html/si61-e.html)
32Indicator 2.2.1.2. The interactions of the fishery with listed and
protected species are known.
Response
Through the mandatory catch reporting and monitoring programs in place independently-
collected data is available on directed, non-directed and non-target species encountered in
the BC hook & line fishery for halibut. These programs would document interactions
with any listed and protected species.
See response to Indicator 2.2.1.1.
Scoring Summary
The information presented establishes that the intent of indicator 2.2.1.2 has been met.
The 60 Scoring Guidepost has been met.
The 80 Scoring Guidepost has been met.
The 100 Scoring Guidepost has been met.
33Indicator 2.2.1.3. The level of interaction known to pose an
unacceptable risk to such species is known, and
impacts are held below unacceptable levels.
Response
Through the mandatory catch reporting and monitoring programs in place independently-
collected data is available on directed, non-directed and non-target species encountered in
the BC hook & line fishery for halibut. These programs would document interactions
with any listed and protected species. These programs can be used to demonstrate that
impacts on any listed or protected species are being kept below unacceptable levels.
See response to Indicator 2.1.4.1 and Indicator 2.2.1.1.
Scoring Summary
The information presented establishes that the intent of indicator 2.2.1.3 has been met.
The 60 Scoring Guidepost has been met.
The 80 Scoring Guidepost has been met.
The 100 Scoring Guidepost has been met.
34Subcriterion 2.2.2. Strategies have been developed within the fisheries
management system that address and restrain
impacts of the fishery to adequately protect
threatened or endangered species.
Indicator 2.2.2.1. In the case of threatened or endangered species,
management objectives are set in terms of impact
identification and avoidance/reduction.
• See responses to Indicator 2.1.1.2, Indicator 2.1.1.4, Indicator 2.1.2.2, Indicator
2.1.3.1, Indicator 2.1.4.1 and Indicator 2.2.1.1.
The Management Issues outlined in the 2006/2007 groundfish management plan address
specific species of concern in terms of impact identification and avoidance/reduction
(DFO, 2006). The management system and catch reporting and monitoring programs in
place ensures catches (retained and released) of all directed, non-directed and non target
species are well documented and stay within allowable harvest levels.
• See Department of Fisheries and Oceans – Pacific Region. Integrated Fisheries
Management Plan – Groundfish, April 2006 to March 31, 2007, Section 8.
DFO has also specified five guiding principles for the commercial groundfish sector that
are related to impact identification and avoidance/reduction:
a) All rockfish catch must be accounted for.
b) Rockfish catches will be managed according to established rockfish management
areas.
c) Fishers will be individually accountable for their catch.
d) New monitoring standards will be established and implemented to meet the about
three objectives.
e) Species and stocks of concern will be closely examined and actions such as
reductions of TACs and other catch limits will be considered and implemented to
be consistent with the precautionary approach for management.
• See Department of Fisheries and Oceans – Pacific Region. Integrated Fisheries
Management Plan – Groundfish, April 2006 to March 31, 2007, Section 4.
The at-sea monitoring program also allows identification of the impacts the fishery may
be on the ecosystem and can aid in the development of effective avoidance/reduction
strategies (e.g., closed areas).
With respect to compliance with regulations to protect species of concern the
enforcement policy and activities of DFO Department are the responsibility of the
Conservation and Protection (C&P) directorate within fisheries management. More
35information on the C&P directorate is available at the following website:
http://www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/ops/CP/Default_e.htm
In addition to regular duty fishery officer activities, patrols and surveillance there are the
equivalent of four fishery officer positions dedicated exclusively to the halibut fishery to
ensure compliance.
• See Department of Fisheries and Oceans – Pacific Region. Integrated Fisheries
Management Plan – Groundfish, April 2006 to March 31, 2007, Section 9 and
Appendix 6, Section 11.
Scoring Summary
The information presented establishes that the intent of indicator 2.2.2.1 has been met.
The 60 Scoring Guidepost has been met.
Both 80 Scoring Guidepost have been met.
Both 100 Scoring Guideposts have been met.
362.3 (MSC Criterion 3): Where exploited populations (of non-target species)
are depleted, the fishery will be executed such that
recovery and rebuilding is allowed to occur to a
specified level within specified time frames, consistent
with the precautionary approach and considering the
ability of the population to produce long-term
potential yields.
Subcriterion 2.3.1. There are management measures in place that allow
for the rebuilding of affected populations.
Indicator 2.3.1.1. There is sufficient information to allow determination
of necessary changes in fishery management to allow
recovery of depleted populations.
Response
If a population is depleted, the catch reporting and monitoring programs in place ensure
DFO has the information necessary to make effective changes to the fishery.
• See response to Indicator 2.1.1.2, Indicator 2.1.1.4, Indicator 2.1.4.1 and Indicator
2.2.1.1.
DFO continually collects information on species of concern and monitors the impacts of
the hook & line fishery for halibut on depleted populations. The Department has
implemented changes in fishery management to allow the recovery of depleted
populations.
For example, three of the five management issues identified in 2006/07 groundfish
management plan are focussed on changes in fishery management to allow recovery of
depleted populations.
• See Department of Fisheries and Oceans – Pacific Region. Integrated Fisheries
Management Plan – Groundfish, April 2006 to March 31, 2007, Section 8.
In addition, due to concerns over some inshore rockfish stocks, in 2002 DFO introduced
its Inshore Rockfish Strategy. The strategy addressed four areas under the fisheries
management and stock assessment regime to protect inshore rockfish from fishery related
impacts and ensure harvests remained within allowable levels (DFO 2002, DFO 2006).
The voluntary implementation of seabird avoidance measures and devices in 2000 and
their mandatory requirement in 2002 and beyond also represents a necessary change in
fishery management to minimize impacts and allow recovery of depleted populations.
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