A groundbreaking initiative has been unveiled by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) to tackle the critical issue of whale entanglements in fishing gear. The 'Whalesafe Fishing Gear Strategy' aims to revolutionize fishing practices and protect these majestic creatures. But here's where it gets controversial: will it be enough to save endangered whale species?
The strategy, spanning five years, initially targets the Atlantic provinces and their diverse whale populations, including the critically endangered North Atlantic right whale. DFO's director, Brett Gilchrist, emphasizes the need to protect these species from the deadly threat of fishing line entanglements.
"The focus is on endangered whales first," Gilchrist said, highlighting the urgency of the situation. The strategy aims to collaborate with fish harvesters rather than imposing fishery closures, a delicate balance between conservation and industry.
At the heart of this initiative is 'whalesafe gear,' specially designed equipment to prevent or minimize entanglements. While not a new concept, its adoption has been limited, according to Hanna Vatcher, a right whale advocate. She emphasizes the industry's unintentional harm to whales and the need for widespread testing of this gear.
The strategy report acknowledges the need for diverse options, as the new gear may not suit all fisheries. Gilchrist aims to expand testing, identifying high-risk entanglement areas and implementing on-demand whalesafe gear. This approach has been advocated by Vatcher and Oceana Canada, who recommended its inclusion in the strategy.
Vatcher praises the strategy, reflecting years of collaboration with various stakeholders. However, she raises concerns about the lack of new funding, questioning the resources needed to achieve these objectives. The next few years will see objectives laid out, but harvesters face closures without immediate access to whalesafe gear.
DFO has categorized gear into two main types: on-demand and low breaking-strength gear. On-demand gear allows traps to sit on the seafloor with a buoy and rope or airbag, released on demand by harvesters. The alternative uses traditional fishing methods but with a special link that breaks under force.
The typical commercial lobster and snow crab fishing practice involves dropping pots with attached buoys, leaving a risk of whale entanglement. Another priority is establishing a system to authorize gear and set standards for manufacturers and harvesters.
On-demand gear is already available through the CanFish gear lending program in the Maritimes, created by the Canadian Wildlife Federation. Vatcher highlights the program's success, having caught one million pounds of snow crab with 200 sets of gear. However, she notes the low adoption rate of whalesafe gear, wishing for its inclusion in the strategy to address cost and access barriers.
DFO's primary concern is the North Atlantic right whale population. Vatcher reports 20 calves born this season, the most in 15 years, with a target of 50 calves annually for species recovery. In October, there were roughly 380 right whales, including around 70 reproductive females.
"This is good news, showing the species' resilience, but we must remain cautious," Vatcher said.
Harvesters and organizations have been testing methods like on-demand gear for over five years. Martin Maillet, executive director of the Maritime Fishermen's Union, sees the strategy as a path to refine these whale protection approaches. He emphasizes the need for cost-effective solutions, using whalesafe gear in high-risk areas rather than replacing entire fleets.
Maillet acknowledges the varying effectiveness of whalesafe approaches, depending on conditions and proximity between fishermen.
This initiative raises important questions: Can we strike a balance between conservation and industry? Will the 'Whalesafe Fishing Gear Strategy' be successful in protecting endangered whale species? Share your thoughts in the comments!
