Terms of Reference

Assessment of Divisions 2J+3KL Capelin

Regional Peer Review - Newfoundland and Labrador Region

March 11-13, 2020
St. John’s, NL

Chairperson: Laura Wheeland

Context

Divisions 2J+3KL Capelin was last assessed in 2019 (DFO 2019).

The current assessment is requested by Fisheries Management to inform the development of management measures for the stock for the upcoming fishing season.

Objectives

Provide an index of capelin abundance for 2020. In support of an index, the following items will be reviewed:

• Report on physical, chemical, and biological oceanographic conditions.
• Review information on historical catches up to and including the 2019 fishery.
• Analyze trends in abundance from the spring acoustic survey and larval recruitment index.
• Review behavioural information on occurrence, distribution, and spawning times.
• Analyze biological information on sizes, ages, maturities, and condition.
• Provide update from capelin forecast model.

Expected Publications

• Science Advisory Report
• Proceedings
• Research Document

Expected Participation

• Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) Science and Fisheries Management
• Newfoundland and Labrador Department of Fisheries and Land Resources
• Nunatsiavut Government
• Indigenous groups
• Fishing Industry
• Academia
• Non-governmental organizations

References

DFO. 2019. Assessment of 2J3KL Capelin in 2018. DFO Can. Sci. Advis. Sec. Sci. Advis. Rep. 2019/048.