- Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) has extended the Gulf of St. Lawrence herring moratorium for two more years due to lack of stock recovery.
- Fishermen argue they have seen more herring, but DFO maintains the species remains in the critical zone.
- The industry struggles with higher bait costs and the rejection of a scientific fishery proposal.
The extension of the moratorium has sparked frustration among fishermen who rely on herring as bait for commercial fisheries. Many believe that on-the-ground observations show signs of stock improvement, but DFO asserts that scientific data does not support reopening the fishery.
The lack of herring continues to affect the broader fishing industry, forcing reliance on alternative bait sources like mackerel and redfish. Fishermen have also raised concerns about the lack of updated research, as moratoriums often lead to reduced scientific monitoring.
DFO Extends Gulf Herring Moratorium, Raising Concerns Among Fishermen
DFO’s decision to extend the moratorium stems from ongoing concerns about herring stocks remaining below the critical threshold. Scientists cite environmental factors such as warming waters and declining food availability as key reasons for the lack of recovery.
Despite these scientific assessments, many fishermen insist they are observing more herring while at sea. They argue that a lack of real-time stock assessments may be misrepresenting the species’ actual condition, leading to an unnecessarily prolonged closure.
The industry has faced financial strain, as alternative bait options like mackerel and redfish are more expensive. This increased cost has affected profitability for fisheries that depend on affordable bait, such as lobster and snow crab harvesters.
Efforts to introduce a scientific fishery—where limited catches could help assess the stock—have been rejected by DFO, further frustrating industry representatives. They argue that collaborative research efforts would provide a clearer picture of stock health wle allowing some level of fishing.
While the herring moratorium aims to protect a struggling species, its long-term impact on the fishing industry raises concerns. Striking a balance between conservation and economic sustainability remains a challenge.
“Conservation means the wise use of the earth and its resources for the lasting good of men.” – Gifford Pinchot
