Terms of Reference

Stock Status Update of Offshore Scallop in Scallop Fishing Areas (SFA) 25-27

Regional Science Response Process – Maritimes Region

April 1, 2015
Dartmouth, NS

Chairperson: Andrew Newbould

Context

The 2015 offshore scallop fishery commences on January 1, 2015, under an interim Total Allowable Catch (TAC) pending availability of formal Science advice. The advice will be used to provide information to the offshore scallop sector, including licence holders, the Province and, ultimately, to seek industry consensus and a Departmental decision on TACs for the 2015 fishery. Science advice is required to make informed TAC decisions and to respect the precautionary approach in fisheries management decisions.

The most recent stock assessment for Offshore Scallop was conducted in 2013 (DFO, 2013a; DFO, 2013b).  Stock assessment updates were complete in 2014 (DFO, 2014a; DFO, 2014b).

Objectives

• The objectives of this meeting are to provide updated advice on the stock status of offshore Scallops in Scallop Fishing Area (SFA) 27 (Georges Bank A) and SFA 26 (Browns Bank North). The advice should include a range of catch scenarios and anticipated results.

Expected Publication

• Science Response

Participation

• Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) Science
• DFO Resource Management

References

DFO. 2013a. Assessment of Georges Bank Scallops (Placopecten magellanicus). DFO Can. Sci. Advis. Sec. Sci. Advis. Rep. 2013/058.

DFO. 2013b. Assessment of Browns Bank North Scallops (Placopecten magellanicus). DFO Can. Sci. Advis. Sec. Sci. Advis. Rep. 2013/059.

DFO. 2014a. Assessment Update of Georges Bank Scallops (Placopecten magellanicus). DFO Can. Sci. Advis. Sec. Sci. Resp. 2014/038.

DFO. 2014b. Assessment Update of Browns Bank North Scallops (Placopecten magellanicus). DFO Can. Sci. Advis. Sec. Sci. Resp. 2014/039.