Premiere issue
Read on for the latest aquatic news and find out how you can help our oceans.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
David Suzuki Foundation makes key recommendations to revive DFO
A report released by the Suzuki Foundation chronicles the Department of Fisheries and Oceans'(DFO) failure to conserve West Coast fish stocks and the habitat that sustains them. Although the DFO has achieved some success, its overall performance has been unacceptable. The report makes key recommendations to improve the effectiveness of this beleaguered institution.
An assessment of Fisheries and Oceans Canada Pacific region’s effectiveness in meeting its mandate, is the most in-depth analysis of its kind to date and is based on extensive interviews with respected fisheries experts, government reports and extensive analysis of internal DFO records and budgets.
Read our report
BC’s northern abalone have highly orchestrated mating rituals. The fish reproduce by a process called “broadcast spawning.” In order to make offspring, males and females must gather closely in one spot and coordinate the release of sperm and eggs.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DFO’s new Wild Salmon Policy needs work
The DFO’s highly anticipated new Wild Salmon Policy has failed to meet expectations. As some B.C. salmon stocks swim towards collapse, most environmentalists, fishermen, and First Nations had hoped this policy would include adequate framework and funds to reverse some of the damage to B.C.’s salmon. Unfortunately, the policy is merely a watered-down version of what the conservation community had called for. To learn more, visit:
Read the David Suzuki Foundation’s response to the Wild Salmon Policy
See the DFO's complete Wild Salmon Policy
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Limiting Cultus sockeye harvest is a step in the right direction for DFO
Cultus lake sockeye salmon stocks will be given some respite this summer, thanks to DFO’s 2005 harvest plan which limits the exploitation of this endangered species. Unfortunately, the Cultus sockeye is one endangered stock among many which require urgent protection and recovery strategies.
Read our latest news release on this issue
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Smart seafood
Confused about which type of fish to choose at your favourite restaurant or grocery store? We can help you make an informed decision.
Atlantic Halibut and all other Atlantic flatfish should be avoided. These fish are caught by the “otter trawl” method that involves towing a large net close to the seafloor. Trawl fishing inadvertently takes other marine life in its wake which is later discarded. Despite the current recovery strategy for flatfish, most stocks are still declining. Your best bet is to steer clear of all Atlantic flatfish.
This time of year, Pacific Halibut gets our approval as a sustainable dining option. These fish are caught in Alaska or off the west coast of B.C. Pacific Halibut are harvested using an “eco-friendly” method called longlining that doesn’t cause a lot of habitat damage.
See the Seafood Guide for details
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Take Action!
The summer fishing season is well underway and the world is watching B.C.’s threatened salmon stocks closely.
Tell fisheries minister Geoff Regan that B.C.’s salmon stocks need more rigorous catch limits with better monitoring and enforcement of industry activities. Regan must limit the exploitation of endangered Cultus sockeye to a maximum of 12% of returning fish.
The ministry must also have a dedicated budget and staff scientists who understand the impacts of climate change if the B.C. government is to protect salmon for the future.
E-mail him now! Regan.G@parl.gc.ca