Science Response 2021/009

Recovery Potential Assessment for six designatable units of whitefish (Coregonus spp.) in Yukon Lakes

Context

After the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC) assesses an aquatic species as Threatened, Endangered or Extirpated, Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) undertakes a number of actions required to support implementation of the Species at Risk Act (SARA). Many of these actions require scientific information on the current status of the wildlife species, threats to its survival and recovery, and the feasibility of recovery. Formulation of this scientific advice has typically been developed through a Recovery Potential Assessment (RPA) that is conducted shortly after the COSEWIC assessment. This timing allows for consideration of peer-reviewed scientific analyses into SARA processes including listing and recovery planning.

In 2018, eight Designatable Units (DUs) of whitefish were assessed as Threatened in Canada, and two more were determined to be Extinct, by COSEWIC. This Recovery Potential Assessment (RPA) pertains to six of those DUs; those found in the Yukon Territory in Squanga, Little Teslin and Dezadeash Lakes. This RPA provides descriptions of the known status of these DUs, an overview of the biology and habitat requirements, and an assessment of the threats and factors which contribute to the Threatened status and may limit recovery.

In support of listing recommendations for the six whitefish DUs assessed as at risk in the Yukon Territory, Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) Science has been asked to undertake a RPA, based on the national RPA Guidance. The science advice in the RPA may be used to inform both scientific and socio-economic aspects of the listing decision, development of a recovery strategy and action plan, and to support decision making with regards to the issuance of permits or agreements, and the formulation of exemptions and related conditions, as per sections 73, 74, 75, 77, 78 and 83(4) of SARA. The advice in the RPA may also be used to prepare for the reporting requirements of SARA s.55. The advice generated via this process will update and/or consolidate any existing advice regarding the six whitefish DUs assessed as at risk in the Yukon Territory.

The RPA provides up-to-date information and discusses associated uncertainties of the 22 elements of the Terms of Reference under the following categories:

This Science Response results from the Science Response Process of April 14, 2020 on the Recovery Potential Assessment – Whitefish - Yukon Lakes Designatable Units.

Science Response 2021/009 (PDF, 1,033 KB)

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