Snow crab capture. (Photo: Stock File)

Snow crab fishery closes to protect right whales

CANADA
Saturday, July 22, 2017, 00:20 (GMT + 9)

Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) decided the closure of snow crab Fishing Area 12, in the Southern Gulf of St. Lawrence, starting July 20, with the aim of protecting North Atlantic right whales from risks posed by the crustacean fishing gear in the area.

DFO took the decision after becoming aware that on July 19 the eighth North Atlantic right whale was found dead this month in the Gulf of St. Lawrence and that another specimen of the species was also found entangled in fishing gear in the same area later that day.

So far 98 per cent of the total allowable catch for snow crab in the banned area has already been harvested. 

“We understand the impact this could have on fishers. However, the recent whale mortalities in the area are unprecedented and this closure is an important measure to address the situation,” DFO claimed.

The closure decision reverses an extension issued late last week that extended the fishing season to July 28 throughout fishing Area 12, except for a small portion where the whales were known to frequent.

The DFO said they are continuing to cease whale disentanglements on their boats as they review their policies and practices regarding the issue.

 
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