What is the federal government's whalesafe fishing gear strategy?

The federal government has launched a five-year strategy to develop and support the use of new fishing gear designed to reduce the risk of entangling whales, especially the endangered North Atlantic right whale.

What types of whalesafe fishing gear are included in the strategy?

The strategy includes two categories of gear: on-demand systems that use acoustic signals to lift fishing pots and remove vertical ropes, and lower-breaking links designed to break at 1,700 pounds of force, allowing whales to free themselves if entangled.

Will the whalesafe fishing gear strategy expand to other regions or species?

Yes, the initiative, which initially focuses on North Atlantic right whales in eastern Canada, is planned to eventually expand to the west coast and include other whale species.

Home / Environment / Whale Safety Gear: A 5-Year Plan Launched

Whale Safety Gear: A 5-Year Plan Launched

4 Feb

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Summary

A five-year strategy to develop new fishing gear to prevent whale entanglement has been introduced.
The gear includes 'on-demand' systems and ropes with lower breaking strength.
The initiative aims to protect North Atlantic right whales, with future expansion planned.

The federal government has initiated a five-year strategy to develop and support the use of innovative fishing gear designed to minimize whale entanglements. This comprehensive plan aims to protect endangered species, particularly the North Atlantic right whale. The initiative will collaborate with harvesters and experts to identify cost-effective solutions.

The strategy introduces two categories of whalesafe gear: on-demand systems utilizing acoustic signals to retrieve fishing pots and eliminate vertical ropes, and lower-breaking link technology that snaps at 1,700 pounds of force. While on-demand gear is more expensive, the strategy intends to foster development and reduce costs for all types of equipment.

Currently focused on eastern Canada's North Atlantic right whale populations, the government plans to extend this effort to the west coast and other marine species. Areas identified as high-risk for whale entanglement will be mandated to implement some form of whalesafe gear, with tailored solutions for different fisheries. Funding to assist harvesters in acquiring this new equipment is still under discussion.