Notice

On June 29, 2012, the Fisheries Act was amended. Policy and regulations are now being developed to support the new fisheries protection provisions of the Act (which are not yet in force). The existing guidance and policies continue to apply. For more information, see Changes to the Fisheries Act.

Definitions

Aquatic Site

For the purposes of the Aquatic Sites Classification System (ASCS), an aquatic site is defined as a water lot, or land or part of land that is completely, partially, or occasionally submerged by water. This includes the hyporheic zone (where shallow groundwater and surface water mix), but excludes deep-seated groundwater, and applies to both freshwater and marine sites. Exceptions to the above definition may be established, on a case-by-case basis, using professional judgment.

Fish

“Fish” includes (a) parts of fish, (b) shellfish, crustaceans, marine animals and any parts of shellfish, crustaceans or marine animals, and (c) the eggs, sperm, spawn, larvae, spat and juvenile stages of fish, shellfish, crustaceans and marine animals.