Seeing the ocean for the fish

By Bob Rangeley, VP Atlantic Region, WWF-Canada
In our recent blog, my colleague described the vital leadership role NAFO plays in conserving the Grand Banks through effective governance. But what that really means is setting strict quotas on catch allowance, closing vulnerable ecosystem areas to fishing, enforcing timely and accurate reporting of catch data by fisheries…these are all essential to reduce the excessive fishing impacts on biodiversity and creating an environment that supports a thriving sustainable fishing industry.  An industry that could not only meet the demands of a growing market, but ensure the well being of our oceans and the millions who depend on it.

Moored fishing boats under a cloudy sky in Newfoundland, Canada. © Helen Jones/ WWF-Canada

WWF has been working with NAFO since 2005 to not only identify problems and provide scientific guidelines for practical solutions on the water, but to influence reform of NAFO towards transparent and effective governance with a big picture approach  – that what’s best for the ocean is best for the seafood economy.
Last week, NAFO took critical steps forward by addressing the long and overdue issue of inaccurate catch estimates, which to date have compromised the work of its scientists and any efforts towards recovery of depleted stocks. The issue of transparency was also addressed with NAFO holding most of its discussions in plenary (involving all members and WWF observers).
The cod stocks, which experienced a complete collapse twenty years ago, are showing signs of improving. They are still at only 21% of sustainable levels on the southern Grand Banks, so there is much to do to ensure excessive bycatch is further curtailed. Vulnerable habitats have been closed to fishing thereby preventing the expansion of bottom fishing into fragile forests of corals and sponges.
There is still much work to restore the Grand Banks but it would seem the tide is finallyturning, slowly towards responsible management.
In last week’s meeting my colleagues and I were pleased to see that the organization’s leaders (notably Canada, Norway, and the USA) have begun making meaningful connections between ecosystem recovery and the long-term value of their fisheries.
So how is WWF’s work with NAFO a success? Because after years of research and knowledge sharing (and yes also critiquing) WWF has built strong relationships with the many parties represented at NAFO, and the trust that goes with that to help influence decision making and bring about change for the recovery of the Grand Banks and a vital fishing economy.
WWF sees the big picture – the potential for a sustainable seafood economy that can support millions. And the opportunity for WWF to work with industry, government and consumers like you to make the crucial investment in oceans happen.