Terms of Reference

Update of 4VWX Herring

Regional Science Response Process – Maritimes Region

March 2014
Dartmouth, N.S.

Chairperson: Lottie Bennett

Context

Maritimes DFO Resource Management has requested that DFO Science provide an update on the science advice for 4VWX herring management unit in support of the 2014/2015 fishery. The last assessment of 4VWX herring was conducted in March 2013.

Objectives

Review and update biological and fishery information on 4VWX herring stock status to assist with establishing the final quota for 2014/2015 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 whether the goals of the rebuilding plan are being met.

Expected Publications

• Science Response

Participation

• DFO Science 
• DFO Resource Management