Terms of Reference

Assessment of 4VWX Herring

Regional Peer Review - Maritimes Region

March 26-27, 2013
Dartmouth, N.S.

Chairperson: K. Clark

Context

Maritimes DFO Resource Management has requested that DFO Science undertake an assessment of the 4VWX herring management unit in support of the 2012/2013 and 2013/2014 fisheries. The last assessment of 4VWX herring was conducted in April 2011 using a new assessment framework. 

Objectives

Review and evaluate biological and fishery information on 4VWX herring stock status to assist with establishing the final quota for 2012/2013 and 2013/2014 fisheries, as required in the Integrated Fisheries Management Plan, including but not limited to:

• An evaluation of the southwest Nova Scotia / Bay of Fundy spawning component.
• A compilation and review of information regarding the offshore Scotian Shelf spawning component and the coastal Nova Scotia spawning component.
• An update on southwest New Brunswick migrant juvenile fishery component.
• Evaluate the status of the fishery with respect to the conservation Lower Reference Point

In addition, provide advice on the recovery and rebuilding of 4VWX herring, and review reporting procedures to be used for stock status updates until the next formal assessment.

Expected Publications

• Science Advisory Report  
• Proceedings 
• Research Documents  

Participation

• DFO Science 
• DFO Resource Management
• Provincial government (fisheries)  
• Herring fishing industry
• Aboriginal communities/organizations