Terms of Reference

An Update of Stock Status and Determination of Limit Reference Points for the American Plaice stocks in i) NAFO Subarea 2+ Division 3K, and ii) NAFO subDivision 3Ps

Regional Peer Review Process – Newfoundland & Labrador Region

March 20 & 21, 2012
St. John’s, Newfoundland

Chairperson: Brian Healey, Stock Assessment Biologist, DFO Science (NL)

Context

Ecosystems and Fisheries Management has requested identification of reference points for the above mentioned American Plaice (Hippoglossoides platessoides) stocks in order to apply the DFO Precautionary Approach framework (DFO, 2009). The limit reference point and the upper stock reference will be used to define the critical, cautious and healthy zones.

Objectives

To address the request for advice, the following objectives have been set:

• Provide an update of stock status.
• To the extent possible, determine the following reference points:
  • Limit Reference Point (Biomass and Removal)
  • Upper Stock Reference

Expected publications

• Science Advisory Report
• Proceedings
• Research Document(s)

Expected Participation

• DFO Science
• DFO Ecosystem and Fisheries Management
• Province of Newfoundland & Labrador
• Academia
• Industry Representatives
• IFREMER (France)
• Non-governmental Organizations

References Cited

DFO, 2009. A fishery decision-making framework incorporating the Precautionary Approach. (http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/reports-rapports/regs/sff-cpd/precaution-back-fiche-eng.htm)