Fisheries science and advice
Science advice is an important consideration in fishery management decisions along with a range of other factors, such as Indigenous Knowledge and socio-economic considerations from discussions with Indigenous communities and stakeholders.
The Canadian Science Advisory Secretariat coordinates scientific peer review and the provision of science advice within Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO). Expertise required to provide high-quality advice in the peer-review process may come from a wide variety of sources and perspectives, including DFO researchers and scientists, external scientists from academia, other departments and from other countries, local and Indigenous knowledge holders, and experts involved in environmental non-governmental organizations.
We use the Sustainable Fisheries Framework to follow a precautionary approach to manage our fisheries. This approach means being cautious when scientific information is uncertain in order to avoid seriously harming our fisheries or environment. It also means not using a lack of science as a reason to delay action.
We actively monitor the health of fish stocks to ensure the conservation of species, and continue to support the research and monitoring necessary to ensure sustainable fisheries.
Related links
- Fishing in pursuit of a moderate livelihood
- Peace and Friendship Treaties in the Maritimes and Gaspé
- The Marshall decisions
- Our response to the Marshall decisions
- 2021 moderate livelihood fishing
- Lobster Science Partnership Roundtable
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