Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) are areas of the ocean that are set aside to help restore populations of fish and marine species whose numbers have dropped because of fishing and other industrial activities. MPAs allow rare and endangered species to recover, as well as their habitat, spawning and rearing grounds.
Different sized areas and levels of protection can exist ranging from just protecting the seabed to more effective no-take zones, also called marine reserves. Although all MPAs contribute to conservation, no-take zones are essential to ensure species and habitat exist for future generations.
Research shows that MPAs contribute to the conservation of marine ecosystems and aid in the development of sustainable fisheries.
Fish Stocks In Decline
Only 0.02 percent of British Columbia's marine waters are fully protected. Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) reports that fish stocks in B.C. are declining.
Living Oceans Society's analysis of Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) Stock Assessment Reports, Management Plans and various research documents. We have found that of the 58 commercially harvested species in B.C.:
- 24 are rated as low
- 12 are below average
- only 11 are average to optimal
- 11 species lack information
For more information click here.
Fisheries management is a challenging task and new strategies are desperately needed. With current management techniques, approved fishing practices are leading to depleted fish stocks and the loss of non-commercial species. Establishing a network of marine protected areas would buffer against the limitations and uncertainties of DFO's current policies.
