Science as a Cornerstone of Decision-Making

To effectively manage Canada’s fisheries, Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) needs the right information at the right time from the right place. Science is a cornerstone of fisheries management. To regulate size limits, quotas, seasons, and gear, managers require information on the biology of the fish species, their migration, their abundance and other biological and environmental factors. Researchers and technicians of DFO are responsible to provide this information. We rely on the latest data and the resulting scientific peer reviewed advice to make important decisions for the sustainable management of Canadian fisheries.

Fishery officers, habitat officers and participants in Canada’s fisheries collect valuable information during the course of their work and activities. Fish harvesters are usually required to enter data in a fishing vessel logbook about the catch – how much, what and where it was caught, how long it took to catch it, and other specific details.

Key data is collected and analyzed by DFO scientists – some of the world’s leading experts in environmental, fisheries, and oceanography research. DFO’s scientists are involved in some of the most advanced national and international research activities taking place in oceans and freshwater today. This includes studying large areas of the ocean to learn how all the elements of an ecosystem are affected by human activities, such as fishing. Considering the effects of fishing on the various components of the ecosystem when making decisions for fisheries will help Canada sustain healthy fish stocks. DFO scientists work closely with recognized universities and science-based international organizations such as the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea and the World Health Organization.  DFO scientists also participate in regional fisheries management organizations such as the Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organization and the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas to share and improve global scientific research and knowledge.

DFO is committed to providing sound peer reviewed science through an objective, inclusive and transparent advisory process. The scope of the advisory process includes provision of all scientific advice required by fisheries managers at DFO by comparing data collected year after year to monitor trends in the fishery. Peer reviewed analysis and advice are provided to DFO officials and the Minister to make informed decisions.

DFO provides peer reviewed results to all participants, and gives all interested parties a clear understanding of their roles and responsibilities.   Peer reviewed advice is published and publicly accessible through DFO’s website.  There have been many challenges in building an advisory process that meets those high standards, but we have succeeded. In meeting these challenges, our progressive leadership has been acknowledged consistently at home and abroad.

More Information:

• Fisheries and Oceans Canada – Scientific Research and Monitoring Activity