Home  Oceans Management

Oceans Management

Oceans are a finite resource, yet the scale and diversity of oceans-related activities are growing dramatically. Commercial fishing fleets, fish farmers, recreational boaters, ecotourists, cruise ship operators, off-shore oil & gas developers and marine transport companies all compete for a piece of the ocean. The growth of coastal and marine activities has resulted in ecosystem imbalances, degradation of the marine environment and the introduction of potentially harmful species.

In January 1997, Canada enacted a law, the Oceans Act, that established a new and innovative approach for the way our nation will manage its oceans in the 21st century.

Canada released its Oceans Strategy on July 12, 2002. The Oceans Strategy will provide policy direction, assist in building partnerships, and pursue a number of key activities, which include:

• integrating science and traditional ecological knowledge to increase our understanding of marine ecosystems;
• reducing marine pollution;
• developing a Federal Marine Protected Areas Strategy
• using Integrated Management to resolve conflicts and manage human activities in ocean areas where multiple interests are involved;
• promoting stewardship and public awareness; and
• promoting international collaboration to protect globally shared fisheries and ocean resources.

Because of its Oceans Act responsibilities, Fisheries and Oceans Canada has an important role to play in implementing Canada’s Oceans Strategy. As a first step, DFO will lead discussions with provinces and territories to seek their support for a joint work plan to implement the Oceans Strategy. At the same time, DFO will seek opportunities to cooperate with industry, Aboriginal people and ocean stakeholders in working towards a modern oceans management regime that involves Canadians in decisions that affect them.