Terms of Reference

Maritimes Research Vessel Survey Trends on Georges Bank

Regional Science Response Process – Maritimes Region

May 25, 2021
Virtual Meeting

Chairperson: Rabindra Singh

Context

Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) has conducted Winter Research Vessel (RV) Surveys in the Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organization (NAFO) Area 5Z (i.e., Georges Bank) using a standardized protocol since 1987. Results of these surveys provide information on trends in abundance for many groundfish species in the DFO Maritimes Region. The survey information will be used by DFO as background for discussions with various industry stakeholders on recommendations for management measures, and may be used to prioritize requests for advice in 2022/2023.  The last update on Maritimes Research Vessel Survey Trends on Georges Bank was completed in May 2020.

Objectives

The objective of this regional science response process is to review and evaluate information obtained from the February – March DFO Research Vessel (RV) Survey for Atlantic Cod, Haddock and Yellowtail Flounder on Georges Bank in Strata 5Z1-5Z4, as well as the stocks listed below. In particular, update the RV survey trends document to include survey data for 2021 and provide information on distribution, biomass estimates, and length composition, as well as identify any trends over the long-term (duration of RV survey) and the recent time period (three years).

• Pollock
• Smooth Skate
• Thorny Skate
• Barndoor Skate
• Winter Skate
• Little Skate
• Longhorn Sculpin
• Ocean Pout
• Lobster

Expected Publication

• Science Response

Expected Participation

• DFO Science
• DFO Resource Management