Aboriginal Aquatic Resource and Oceans Management Program

The Aboriginal Aquatic Resource and Oceans Management (AAROM) program was established in 2004 to support increased engagement of Aboriginal groups working together in fisheries and oceans management and related issues, including habitat management and planning, environmental assessment and species at risk.

The program responds to a need identified by First Nations during consultations in 2002 on renewal of the Aboriginal Fisheries Strategy. They stressed the importance of Aboriginal communities becoming more involved in the decision-making processes used for aquatic resource and oceans management.

AAROM is applicable in areas where DFO manages the fishery, and where land claim agreements addressing those matters covered under AAROM are not in place. Where the Aboriginal group has signed a comprehensive land claims agreement, and one of more of the matters covered by the AAROM program are not dealt with in the agreement, the group would be eligible to apply for support in those matters not covered.

The AAROM program provides funding to Aboriginal groups to:

• establish aquatic resource and oceans management bodies
   
• increase the administrative capacity and scientific/technical expertise
   
• enhance existing collaborative management structures
   
• facilitate their participation in multistakeholder advisory processes and other processes related to a number of areas of DFO responsibility; and
   
• strengthen relationships through improved information sharing among Aboriginal communities, DFO and other stakeholders.
   

To date, AAROM funding has enabled First Nations to:

• hire qualified biologists, technicians, and fisheries managers to provide input into the management, use and development of aquatic resources and oceans.
   
• hire and train Aboriginal Fisheries Officers.
   
• develop professional, administrative and technical expertise.
   
• support the voluntary retirement of commercial fishing licences and the transfer of commercial fishing opportunities, including vessels and gear, to eligible Aboriginal groups, and
   
• pursue aquaculture-related activities.
   

Looking forward

The AAROM program is currently being reviewed to ensure that it continues to meet the needs of the Aboriginal communities it assists. Changes will focus on streamlining the program’s approach to administrative practices to further improve efficiency in service delivery, strengthen accountability and put greater focus on achieving results.