Terms of Reference

Stock Assessment of Capelin in Divisions 2J+3KL

Regional Peer Review - Newfoundland and Labrador Region

March 4-6, 2025

Virtual

Chairperson: Nadine Wells

Context

The Resource Management sector of Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) has requested a stock assessment for 2J+3KL capelin. The current assessment is requested to inform the development of management measures for the stocks for the upcoming fishing season. This stock is prescribed under section 6 of the Fisheries Act.

The assessment will review new information on status of the stock in the aforementioned stock area. The advice will be used to inform the total allowable catch (TAC) for the 2J+3KL and 3Ps capelin fisheries for 2025. NAFO Divisions 2J+3KL capelin was last assessed in 2024 (DFO 2024).

Objectives

Provide advice on:

• Stock status and trends (acoustic biomass index, forecast model, landings/ catches, spawning behaviour, biological trends, recruitment) with respect to the stock’s limit reference point.
• Ecosystem and climate change considerations affecting the stock including relevant summaries of oceanographic conditions, biological community structure and trends, and pertinent knowledge of ecological interactions (e.g., predator, prey).

Expected Publications

• Science Advisory Report
• Research Document

Expected Participation

• Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) Science and Fisheries Management
• Newfoundland and Labrador Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture
• Indigenous groups
• Fishing Industry
• Academia
• Non-governmental organizations

References

• DFO. 2024. Assessment of Divisions 2J+3KL Capelin to 2023. DFO Can. Sci. Advis. Sec. Sci. Advis. Rep. 2024/050.