Coral & Sponge Conservation Strategy for Eastern Canada 2015
Table of Contents
- Complete Text
- Executive Summary
- Acronyms
- Introduction
- Purpose of the Strategy
- Why Protect Corals and Sponges?
- Geographic Scope
- International Context
- Canadian Context
- Status of Coral and Sponge Conservation in Eastern Canada
- Research on Corals and Sponges in Eastern Canada
- Objectives
- Targets and Actions
- Development and Implementation
- References
- Appendix A: Biology of Corals and Sponges in Eastern Canada
- Appendix B: Challenges for Coral and Sponge Conservation
- Appendix C: Management Measures
- Appendix D: Ecological Risk Assessment Framework
- Appendix E: Relevant Publications
- Contact Information
Development and Implementation
Implementation
While the implementation of region specific targets and actions will be led within each respective DFO region, there will be collaboration among the regions where appropriate. The five DFO regions within eastern Canada will work together to promote consistency in the implementation of legislation and policy to conserve and protect corals and sponges, and find efficiencies in research efforts and data sharing.
Some of the actions listed in the Strategy are within the scope of work already planned or underway within the Department and can therefore be managed within existing resources. Where gaps exist, particularly with respect to research and monitoring, the Strategy will inform future strategic planning and funding allocation.
The fishing industry, international partners, ENGOs, and academics have played an important role in achieving the coral and sponge conservation measures currently in place. It is hoped that these groups will continue to collaborate and provide information and advice to regulators. For other groups, such as the oil and gas industry, the Strategy identifies opportunities to collaborate on research, as well as conservation issues.
The conservation and protection of corals and sponges may have implications for fishing, oil and gas, and other human activities. The Department will provide opportunities for stakeholders potentially impacted by the implementation of the Strategy to be consulted before any management measures are taken. A Strategy for the conservation and protection of corals and sponges provides transparency, stability, and predictability in the Department’s management response.
Review
Each region will report annually on the status of Targets and Actions identified within the Strategy, an exercise that will be coordinated by the Newfoundland and Labrador Region. The Strategy will undergo a review every five years.
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