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What We Heard: Adapting Maritimes fisheries to a changing climate

Note: Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) held a series of 7 regionally focused workshops to discuss climate change impacts, barriers to adaptation, and actions to support the resilience of Canada’s wild-capture fish harvesters and harvesting industry.

What we heard report: Regional perspectives on adapting Canadian fisheries to a changing climate

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Disclaimer

The following report contains opinions expressed by those who attended the regional workshop sessions and do not necessarily reflect the views of Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO).

Throughout this report, participant views are represented as received by DFO. However, in some instances there are discrepancies between participant interpretations and what is authorized by DFO. As such, participant comments may not correspond to the statutory, regulatory, and policy framework as understood by DFO. In addition, participant recommendations noted below reflect general consensus but should not be interpreted as having received unanimous consent.

Executive summary: key takeaways

Participants reported experiencing several impacts from climate change on their fisheries, including:

Participants reported several concerns regarding fisheries in the era of climate change, including:

Participants are taking several actions to adapt to the impacts of a changing climate, including:

Participants highlighted what they consider to be some of the biggest barriers to adaptation, including:

Participants shared ideas for specific actions, or opportunities, to support adaptation efforts including:

Report

Impacts of a changing climate on Maritimes’ fisheries

How is climate change impacting your fisheries

Workshop participants highlighted various climate change impacts and vulnerabilities, particularly the shifts in species distribution. Many noticed changes in migration patterns and routes, with species moving northward, leading to a decline in native populations in the Maritimes region. The warming waters are bringing new fish from tropical regions, complicating the prediction of bycatch and non-target species. A key concern for many was the impact of these shifts on food availability for target species, as they relocate to different areas or depths.

Additionally, Participants raised concerns about changes in the timing of fisheries have, noting they are now fishing at times they had not before—starting earlier in the spring —as ice-free waters have become more common. However, fluctuating and less predictable sea surface temperatures have led to lower and more unpredictable catches. As fish migrations and aggregations shift, participants said this is affecting fish quality and availability, and in some cases, leading to gear conflicts. These distributional and timing shifts were also described as causing more conflicts among harvesters. Moreover, participants noted that the overlapping changes in fisheries across international borders have increased tensions, particularly with harvesters from the United States, given that many fisheries are shared across jurisdictions.

We heard that lobster fisheries have been heavily impacted, with harvesters noting rapid changes in seasonality, size distribution, and product quality. It was highlighted that the southern regions are seeing declines in lobster populations, while the northern areas are experiencing gains, creating inequitable impacts. Discussions around lobster season changes have been frequent, with warmer and colder bottom temperatures affecting the timing of lobster moults and changes to the age of maturity.

Participants shared concerns over the inability to harvest traditional species, such as salmon, noting the significant cultural impacts this has on Indigenous communities. They also highlighted how climate change is deeply affecting commercial fishing and the broader processing chain in coastal communities. The increased frequency and severity of storms are raised safety concerns for harvesters, while also threatening infrastructure and leading to increased gear loss. Additionally, there isa sense that churning waters are disrupting species patterns and behaviours, making fishing less predictable.

The rise of invasive species like green crabs and sea vomit has become a growing concern, particularly in relation to at-risk species like salmon and eels, as these invaders outcompete native species for resources. In addition, participants reported an increase in diseases and vibrio, especially among shellfish like scallops and oysters. These combined climate change impacts are leaving both harvesters and Indigenous communities struggling to adapt, contributing to a growing sense of concern over the future predictability of fishing in the Maritimes region.

What are your biggest areas of challenge and concern related to these climate impacts

Participants raised a number of significant concerns, many of which are linked to shifting environmental conditions and the impact this is having on fisheries. One of the most pressing concerns heard from participants was regarding current fisheries policies and management approaches. Participants noted that current policies and regulations require amendments to effectively address the extensive, climate-driven changes to fisheries. In particular, a key concern raised was how policies will respond to the shifting abundance and distribution of species. One major question that came up was how access to resources will be determined when species shift away. Species distribution and who should have access to resources in light of these changes were highlighted as a key concern.

Participants emphasized that a holistic approach to fisheries management that goes beyond the science of individual stocks to consider the broader picture, including all fisheries and communities, will allow Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) to make future decisions. Expanding the current single-species management system will improve flexibility and increase the speed of response to rapid climate changes, with participants calling for a more proactive and flexible management regime, including in-season decisions to address anomalies.

The incorporation of climate impacts into management plans was another key point, with participants requesting that more attention and resources be directed towards incorporating climate considerations into all fisheries decisions going forward. Many expressed that existing fisheries management processes should be updated in the near future to address increases in new species emerging in Canadian waters, disappearing stocks, and changing seasons as a result of climate change.

Participants also highlighted the broader impacts and challenges of climate change on coastal communities, including employment, the service sector, and infrastructure. Some suggested that changes should be considered not only to ensure fisheries survive but to allow them to thrive in support of coastal communities. There was also a notable concern about how Indigenous fisheries will be managed amid uncertainty, with questions about how Canada will ensure that its commitments to Indigenous communities and fisheries are upheld in the face of climate change.

Bait availability and the approval process for new bait were raised as concerns, particularly regarding the use of green crab as bait for lobster fisheries. Some participants are worried about the risks that green crab poses to lobster, such as spreading diseases like white-spot syndrome virus and other parasites.

Participants emphasized the need for increased data beyond target species to understand the impacts of climate change on predator/prey relationships, which are critical for managing fisheries. Additionally, increasing the capacity of coastal infrastructure, trying to reduce operating costs for replacing gear, and improving coordination between federal and provincial governments in accessing infrastructure were discussed. Extreme weather events and their impacts on fishing operations, science surveys, and fish food sources were also noted as significant concerns.

Participants expressed concerns about the impact of climate change on mollusks, particularly in relation to salinity, calcium carbonate production, food availability at increased depths, increased turbidity from storms, and the timing of algal blooms. The potential effects of climate change on salmon were also highlighted, especially in relation to changes in migration routes, spawning success, and the availability of prey, which are affecting salmon reproduction and survival rates.

A number of lobster-specific concerns were also raised, particularly related to the timing of lobster moults, which affect their survivability during transport. Additionally, it was noted that soft-shelled lobsters are facing increased mortality and loss of value due to increased handling during this vulnerable stage.

Finally, participants wrestled with the challenge of balancing precautionary measures with the need to support coastal communities that depend on fishing. The dilemma lies in planning for reduced yields while still allowing some fishing to take place to sustain local economies, raising tough questions about how to strike a balance between sustainability and economic livelihoods.

What has changed the most in your fisheries

Participants reported that species patterns are becoming increasingly unpredictable, making fisheries more complex to manage. The impacts on productivity have varied dramatically across different species, with some experiencing declines while others are shifting to new areas or emerging in unexpected locations. This unpredictability has added significant challenges to forecasting fish populations, making it harder to plan fishing efforts and manage resources effectively. As a result, there is growing concern about how to adapt to these changing conditions and ensure the sustainability of fisheries in the face of such variability.

Adapting to a changing climate

What actions are you taking to respond or adapt to the impacts of changing conditions

Participants shared several ongoing and planned actions aimed at adapting to the challenges posed by climate change. Below, you will find some examples of key adaptation strategies being implemented in the Maritimes region.

Many participants are taking actions to enhancing data collection and research efforts, such as:

Participants shared some of the actions they are taking, aimed at diversifying fisheries, fishing gear and harvesting methods, such as:

Participants emphasized the need to work collaboratively in adapting to climate change and shared a few examples of their strategies:

These collective efforts reflect a comprehensive and multi-faceted approach to adapting to the challenges posed by climate change, with a strong emphasis on research, innovation, collaboration, and the integration of both environmental and social science considerations.

What do you think are the biggest barriers to adaptation

Participants identified several significant barriers that are making it harder for harvesters to adapt to the impacts of climate change on fisheries. Participants identified a significant need for more cohesive and flexible regulations in fisheries management, especially as climate change accelerates. The current regulatory systems could be amended to achieve a more holistic approach, reducing issues with licensing for harvesters and improving coordination between policies affecting different species and areas, and enabling DFO to act more swiftly and with more flexibility in response to emerging fisheries and species distribution shifts.

Participants explained that the current fisheries regime and regulatory system overall is too slow to adapt. For example, participants shared that regulations on fishing times and gear types take too long to change, making it difficult to remain agile in the face of shifting conditions. Participants called for a shift from reactive to proactive decision-making, implementing plans for likely crises, such as those linked to climate change, to promote industry stability and mitigate risks. Additionally, participants suggested that an increased breadth of data be used by DFO to improve future projections and predictions about climate impacts, predator-prey relationships, and species movements.

The politicalization of fisheries decisions was identified as a major barrier. Participants find it challenging when policies and decisions shift based on political cycles rather than sound, long-term planning, and feel that it creates instabilities for harvesters. Furthermore, increasing enforcement could create a more harmonious environment for harvesters, improve certainty and strengthen the ability to achieve meaningful change. To improve the situation, participants called for a more integrated management approach that includes input from harvesters and environmental scientists, and a more balanced consideration of both adaptation and mitigation strategies. The decision-making process must include a broader understanding of regional and local dynamics, as well as support for owner-operator businesses and infrastructure investment. Participants noted that a fragmented regulatory framework and regional inconsistencies in decision-making could be addressed by a more unified, forward-thinking, and inclusive approach to address the challenges facing the fisheries industry, with particular attention to climate change and long-term sustainability.

What do you need to better adapt to the impacts of changing conditions

Participants highlighted several areas of support that are needed to better adapt to climate change, focusing on proactive, flexible approaches to fisheries management and greater collaboration. The following key themes emerged at the workshop:

In summary, participants called for a more flexible, inclusive, and transparent approach to fisheries management, one that recognizes the evolving challenges of climate change and integrates diverse knowledge and perspectives. Through ongoing dialogue, education, and collaboration, we can work towards sustainable fisheries.

Looking to the future

What is your future vision for climate-adapted Maritimes fisheries

Participants shared their future visions for climate-adapted Maritimes fisheries. Their visions emphasized a collaborative, team-oriented approach to fisheries management, prioritizing stakeholder and partner engagement to ensure sustainable and thriving fisheries.

A key priority identified at the workshop was maximizing collaboration within the fisheries sector and reducing conflict. A collaborative approach encourages mutual support and resource sharing, where all parties —Indigenous Peoples, stakeholders, environmental non-governmental organizations, and others—are brought together to work towards common goals. Participants emphasized the importance of inclusive stakeholder meetings that allow everyone to contribute to the decision-making process, while also breaking down barriers between different groups. A vision for successful future fisheries would incorporate a diverse range of voices, ensuring that the interests of all stakeholders are taken into account. Participants also highlighted the importance of ensuring that Indigenous and local communities are central to the fisheries decision-making process, ensuring that economic, ecological, and socio-cultural goals are aligned. The aim of climate-adapted Maritimes fisheries should be to support the health of fish populations while also nurturing vibrant, sustainable communities.

Participants emphasized the need for climate change to be at the forefront of fisheries management decisions. In participants’ future vision, DFO would play an active role in implementing policies and strategies focused on climate-related issues. Management approaches would be nimble and responsive to climate challenges, providing harvesters with confidence in the adaptability of the system. A focus on integrating climate considerations at all stages—from data collection to decision-making— was identified as a crucial step in building resilient fisheries that can adapt to changing environmental conditions. To adapt to climate change, fisheries management should adopt agile practices that allow for quick, flexible responses to emerging challenges. Participants stressed the importance of predictive modelling, especially around surface and bottom temperatures, to help forecast changes and inform decision-making. Management systems should be integrated, with active involvement from diverse stakeholders, to ensure that fisheries remain resilient in the face of climate change.

Workshop participants’ future vision for climate-adapted Maritimes fisheries revolves around collaboration, resilience, and inclusivity. Through a more integrated approach, with diverse stakeholders working together, the region can create sustainable fisheries that thrive economically, ecologically, and socially. The goal is to ensure that both the fisheries and the communities that depend on them remain resilient as they face the ongoing impacts of climate change.

What does success look like

Participants identified several key perspectives on what successful fisheries could look like in the face of climate change. Success in fisheries management incorporates effective information sharing among DFO and stakeholders and discussion during advisory committee meetings which will enhance. agility, improve collaboration, and increase transparency with harvesters. It is also essential that meeting notes capture conflicts and encourage more efforts to seek consensus among stakeholders.

Incorporating predictive modelling into all stock assessment surveys was seen as a crucial step in guiding management decisions more effectively. Success also hinges on creating an inclusive environment for new entrants into the fishing industry, as they bring fresh perspectives and ideas for fisheries. Long-term sustainability should be incentivized, potentially by encouraging new entrants to invest in scientific research and adopt a longer-term view, even if this means sacrificing some short-term opportunities.

There is growing competition for space in the marine environment, with increasing pressures from marine protected areas, offshore wind development, transportation routes, and oil and gas projects. Success will require recognizing these spatial constraints and developing strategies that account for the impact of these pressures, particularly in the context of climate change. As stock ranges shift due to climate change, fisheries may face spatial limitations, with some needing to move into areas already constrained by other ocean uses or protections. Flexibility in management is key in responding to these challenges. Planning should focus on multispecies management, ecosystem approaches, and a climate-informed strategy that prioritizes both prosperous coastal communities and healthy oceans.

Participants advocated for new survey methodologies that can better capture climate change impacts. Additionally, participants put a strong emphasis on establishing a value-based management system. This system should be rooted in core values such as sustainability, long-term thinking, and holistic, collaborative approaches, such as taking inspiration from IK and practices, which advocate for a seven-generation perspective.

What are the best opportunities to support adaptation to get us there

Participants identified several important opportunities to better position Maritimes fisheries to respond to the challenges posed by climate change. These actions emphasize structural changes, stronger collaboration, and increased awareness to ensure long-term sustainability.

To ensure the Maritimes fisheries are resilient to climate change, a collaborative, proactive approach is needed. Key actions include ensuring more inclusive consultation processes, diversifying the sector, and increasing public awareness. A long-term commitment to adaptability and sustainability, with a focus on protecting vital areas and fostering innovation, will be critical in navigating the climate uncertainties of the future.

Results of the polling exercise

During the workshop, participants were asked to take part in an anonymous polling exercise. Participant responses are displayed below. Please note that Question 3 required participants to provide an open-text response; responses reflect the text as submitted.

Question 1: Choose all of the following that apply to you and your role

Figure 1
Bar graph showing polling results for question 1.

Question 2: On a scale from 1 to 5 (1 being the lowest and 5 being the highest), please indicate the extent to which you agree or disagree with the following statements

Figure 2
Bar graph showing polling results for question 2.

Question 3: What could increase the agility and flexibility of the fisheries management regime to respond to future challenges

Open text responses:

Participant list

Representatives from the following organizations, groups, environmental non-governmental organizations, institutions, and/or governments attended the workshop. In alphabetical order:

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