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Fisheries and Oceans Canada - News Release

BG-PR-05-006e

April 7, 2005

2004 SOUTHERN SALMON FISHERY POST-SEASON REVIEW

 

On November 18, 2004, Minister Regan announced the appointment of Mr. Bryan Williams, a former Chief Justice of the BC Court of Appeal, to lead an independent post-season review.  The particular concern was very low spawning escapements of Fraser River sockeye in 2004, and large numbers of unaccounted fish; i.e. fish that returned to the mouth of the river but did not make it to the spawning grounds.

 

Mr. Williams worked with the Integrated Salmon Harvest Planning Committee to conduct the review.  During January and February public meetings were held in Richmond (twice), Prince George, Kamloops, Surrey and Chilliwack.  Evidence was provided by organizations representing First Nations, recreational and commercial harvesters; DFO officials; members of the Pacific Salmon Commission; and several independent scientists.

 

The review has provided a detailed analysis of four key issues:

  • High Fraser River water temperatures and related sockeye mortality;

  • The accuracy of fish counts at Mission (near the mouth of the Fraser River) and at the spawning grounds;

  • Illegal fishing and unreported catch of legal fishing; and

  • The adequacy of management by the department.

It has been determined that there were 1.3 million unaccounted Fraser River sockeye.  The report identifies the major causes as high levels of fish mortality caused by record high temperatures in the Fraser River, illegal fishing and inadequate enforcement.  No determination could be made on the respective contribution of these factors. 

 

There are 47 recommendations calling for the following:

  • More in-river monitoring of fish abundance;

  • Better catch monitoring;

  • Further studies on the impact of high in-river temperatures, better forecasting of mortality impacts, and more responsive fishery management;

  • Research on the impact of set gillnets and drift gillnets, and stricter controls;

  • More enforcement and a new management structure for enforcement;

  • A review of the management structure and mandate for Fraser River sockeye;

  • A review of the effectiveness of consultation processes;

  • A review of the budgeting process and of the region’s financial situation; and

  • A review of past reviews, with an evaluation of responses to date, and preparation of new recommendations 
     

 

 

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