The Canadian government is taking further steps to protect the endangered North Atlantic right whale with the launch of its five-year Whalesafe Fishing Gear Strategy. The strategy focuses on preventing whale entanglements in fishing gear, a leading cause of injury and death for these marine mammals. With an estimated 380 individuals remaining, including approximately 70 reproductively active females, the North Atlantic right whale is critically vulnerable, making protective measures essential.
The Whalesafe Fishing Gear Strategy prioritizes the use of on-demand, or "ropeless," fishing gear, which uses acoustic signals to retrieve fishing pots, eliminating the need for vertical ropes that can entangle whales. The strategy also advocates for the use of weaker ropes that break under 1,700 pounds of force, allowing entangled whales a better chance of freeing themselves. Fisheries and Oceans Canada plans to begin implementation on the East Coast, with the goal of nationwide adoption by 2030.
Developed in consultation with harvesters, gear manufacturers, Indigenous groups, and whale experts, the strategy aims to balance whale protection with the needs of Canada's fishing industry. Ongoing gear testing in select eastern Canadian fisheries will allow harvesters to fish in areas typically closed due to right whale detection, provided they use whalesafe gear. This collaborative approach recognizes the importance of sustainable fishing practices for coastal economies and the livelihoods of Canadian harvesters.
The strategy outlines five key goals, including the development of supportive policies, identification of high-risk fisheries, addressing knowledge gaps, and identifying high-risk management areas. By working closely with harvesters to test and adapt whale-safe gear, Canada aims to implement practical and effective solutions that ensure the safety of both whales and fishers. The initiative also aligns with Canada's commitment to sustainable seafood and helps Canadian fisheries meet eco-certification standards and international import requirements.
