An annual audit of Canada’s fisheries says the number of healthy fish stocks is on the decline.
Oceana Canada’s annual report report flags the Department of Fisheries and Oceans for not acting with the speed and rigor needed to rebuild depleted stocks.
Dr. Robert Rangley co-authored the report, and says there are three key takeaways:
“The healthy stocks declined, critical stocks went up, and then we’re starting to see some crustaceans enter the critical stocks,” Rangely said. “Normally it’s been groundfish, those fin fish like cod and now we’re seeing some of the other shrimp and snow crab also entering into the critical state which is not a trend yet, but something to watch closely,” he stated.
Rangely notes that there are several reasons why DFO hasn’t been able to keep on top of the issue.
“Let’s be clear, it is a difficult job,” Rangely stated. “It’s a bit of a hole that’s been dug through the historical fact of over-fishing ground fish stocks. That’s a challenge. We don’t expect everything is going to rebuild overnight but you have to have plans for the future,” he explained.
The report urges Ottawa to set timelines and targets for rebuilding critically depleted stocks.
Rangely notes that climate change and pollution are also factors that will affect the ability to ensure a sustainable, adaptable seafood industry in the future.
The report isn’t all doom and gloom.
Rangely identified the modernized Fisheries Act as a highlight.
The Act, which became law in June 2019, will require rebuilding plans for depleted fish populations.
Oceana Canada says that the government has also made a significant financial commitment to assess and rebuild fish populations.
