Terms of Reference

Assessment of Quebec inshore waters Rock Crab

Quebec Region Science Advisory Process

February 2, 2010
Maurice Lamontagne Institute
850, route de la mer, Mont-Joli, Qc

Chairperson: Martin Castonguay

Background

DFO Quebec Science Branch reviews the status of some Gulf of St. Lawrence invertebrates and groundfish stocks in support of management of the fishery. Fisheries and Aquaculture management has requested a scientific advice on Quebec inshore waters rock crab stock status in 2010.

Objectives

Provide scientific advice on the management of rock crab stocks in Quebec’s inshore waters (management units 12, 16 and 17) for the 2010-2012 fishing seasons. This advice shall include:

• Conclusion of an assessment of the status of rock crab populations in management units 12 in the Gaspé Peninsula and Magdalen Islands, 17 in Gaspé Peninsula and 16 on North Shore, based on:
• • commercial fishery statistics;
  • effort and CPUE;
  • size distribution.
• The identification of indicators to follow the stock status during years without formal stock assessment.
• The identification and priorization of research projects to be considered for the future
• Perspectives and/or recommendations on the current measures of management in the Magdalen Islands, in the Gaspé Peninsula and on North Shore for the 20010-2012 fishing seasons.

Products

CSAS Science Advisory Report on Quebec inshore waters Rock Crab.
CSAS Proceedings summarizing the discussion.

Participation

DFO Science and Fisheries Management
Fishing industry
Provincial representatives
Aboriginal Communities / Organizations