Why did Canada decide not to list the American eel under SARA?

Canada decided against listing the American eel under SARA, citing scientific data, socio-economic factors, and consultations, choosing instead to manage populations under the Fisheries Act.

What is the significance of the American eel to First Nations?

The American eel holds deep cultural, spiritual, and medicinal significance for many First Nations, playing a vital role in their traditions, identity, and historical food sources.

Are American eel populations declining in Canada?

Data indicates that American eel populations are vulnerable in Nova Scotia and imperiled in Prince Edward Island, with significant declines observed in other areas like the Ottawa River.

Home / Environment / Canada Refuses Eel Protection, Angering First Nations

Canada Refuses Eel Protection, Angering First Nations

6 Dec

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Summary

Canada will not list the American eel under the Species at Risk Act.
First Nations express concern over the decision, citing cultural loss.
The government will manage eels under the Fisheries Act instead.

Canada announced Tuesday it would not list the American eel under the Species at Risk Act (SARA), a decision that has drawn criticism from First Nations communities with significant cultural and spiritual connections to the species. Charles Doucette of Potlotek First Nation expressed disappointment, noting the drastic decline in eel populations, which were once central to his community's traditions, medicine, and feasts. He highlighted the stark contrast between past abundance and the current scarcity, questioning the government's inaction.

The federal government opted to manage eel populations under the Fisheries Act, a move favored by commercial elver fishers but viewed with skepticism by environmentalists and Indigenous knowledge keepers. Scientific assessments have indicated declining eel populations in several Atlantic provinces, with Nova Scotia's populations considered vulnerable and Prince Edward Island's imperiled. Similar declines are noted in regions like the Ottawa River, where historical abundance has plummeted due to factors like damming and habitat loss.