Concerns about mackerel and herring stocks on the East Coast are prompting “urgent action” from Ottawa.
Fisheries and Oceans Canada has closed the Atlantic mackerel commercial and bait fisheries in Atlantic Canada and Quebec.
There will also be no directed commercial or bait fishing for southern Gulf spring herring.
“Southern Gulf spring herring and Atlantic mackerel are stocks that have been in the critical zone for lengthy periods and need to be allowed to regenerate for the continued sustainability and success of the entire fishery,” Fisheries Minister Joyce Murray said in a statement.
DFO said it has implemented a number of management measures in recent years, but they have not been enough to regenerate the stock.
Herring and mackerel are an important food source for other species, including tuna and Atlantic cod, and are a traditional source of bait in some commercial fisheries, including lobster and snow crab.
“I recognize many harvesters depend on these fisheries. I will continue working with them and fishing groups from across Atlantic Canada and Quebec to ensure the best outcomes for these stocks and the people who depend on them,” said Murray.
DFO noted that many harvesters have already begun sourcing bait from elsewhere or using alternative bait, adding they have invested in projects that support more sustainable, alternative bait.
Officials said the closures will be revisited following the next stock assessments.
