Terms of Reference

Maritimes Research Vessel Survey Trends on Georges Bank

Regional Science Response Process – Maritimes Region

June 16, 2014
Dartmouth, Nova Scotia

Chairperson: Lottie Bennett

Context

Although all groundfish stocks cannot be assessed each year, it is important to provide annual updates on trends of the stocks to highlight any potential areas of concern.  The information will be used by DFO Resource Management as background for discussions with various industry stakeholders on recommendations for management measures, as well as determining which stocks will be requested to be reviewed in more detail with a full assessment in the following year.

Objectives

Review and evaluate information obtained from the DFO Research Vessel Surveys on the Georges Bank, within Strata 5Z1-5Z4, for Atlantic Cod, Haddock and Yellowtail Flounder, as well as for the following stocks that will not undergo a formal assessment in 2014/2015.

These stocks include:

• Pollock
• White Hake
• Smooth Skate
• Thorny Skate
• Barndoor Skate
• Winter Skate 
• Little Skate  

In particular, provide information on distribution, biomass estimates, and length composition, highlighting any trends over the long-term (duration of RV survey), mid-term (past 15 years) and most recent period (5 years).

Expected Publication

• Science Response

Participation

• DFO Science
• DFO Resource Management