ST. JOHN’S, N.L. - Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Newfoundland and Labrador Region, has released the Subdivision 3Ps Cod Science Advisory Report for 2007.
The findings or elements studied in the report include:
•Stock status was evaluated from commercial landings (1977 to March 31, 2007), logbook data (1997-2006) in conjunction with abundance indices from Canadian research vessel (RV) trawl surveys (1972-2007), industry trawl surveys (1997-2005), and sentinel surveys (1995-2006). Exploitation (harvest) rates were estimated from tagging experiments.
•DFO Research Vessel (RV) biomass and abundance indices were revised to include data from inshore strata that have been surveyed since 1997; these indices have been variable in the recent time period with no clear trend. The industry trawl survey has shown a declining trend. Two fixed gear abundance indices from fishing conducted shoreward of the DFO RV survey have been stable in recent years.
•Two strong year-classes (1997-1998) are well represented in the catch during 2003-2006; however, these are followed by weaker recruitment (2000-2004 year-classes), and at current catch levels, it is anticipated that fishing mortality will increase over the next few years.
The 2007 Science Advisory Report is based on peer-reviewed data and information provided through the Regional Advisory Process (RAP).
The report is available online at:
www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca
