Terms of Reference

Development of reference points for the precautionary approach for the stock of Atlantic mackerel in Subareas 3 and 4

Regional Peer Review – Quebec Region

March 20, 2014
Mont-Joli, Quebec

Chairperson: Martin Castonguay

Context

The Precautionary Approach (PA) is a general philosophy to managing threats of serious or irreversible harm when there is scientific uncertainty. That condition often apply in fisheries; therefore PA should be incorporated in fisheries management. The first step in PA framework development is usually estimation of limit reference points.

Canada is committed domestically and internationally to the use of PA in managing its fisheries. Over the last few years, there have been several initiatives in Canada to define the PA in a fisheries context, to identify benchmarks that would be consistent with the approach and to apply it in fisheries management. The fundamental principles guiding this approach have been outlined in two key documents produced by DFO: 1) the Science Advisory Report 2006/023 that identifies the minimal requirements for harvesting strategies to be compliant with the PA and 2) the 2008 Decision-Making Framework Incorporating the Precautionary Approach; a policy document to guide the incorporation of PA principles in the management of Canadian fisheries.

To be compliant with the PA, fishery management plans should include harvest strategies that are developed according to a science-based Limit Reference Point, an Upper Stock Reference Point and Removal Reference points. These points define the limits of stock status zones (i.e., Healthy, Cautious, and Critical). It is expected that the management decisions respect the actions each of the stock zones as they are described in DFO Precautionary Approach guidance referenced above.

Objectives

The key objective of the meeting is to define limit reference points, consistent with the precautionary approach for the stock of Atlantic mackerel in Subarea 3 and 4 based on the best scientific information available. This information includes the results of the egg surveys, catch at age, biological data,  and a sequential population analysis.

Specifically, the following objectives have been set:

• Examine the available data to determine the reference point indicators and provide a rationale for the recommended indicators.
• Identify and recommend reference points based on indicators.
• Review the proposed reference points and uncertainties related.

Expected Publications

• Proceedings
• Research Document

Participation

• Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) (Science and Ecosystems and Fisheries Management sectors)