Lack of fishing prohibitions in ‘grey zone’ could pose risk for right whales, expert says

Marine conservation expert Sean Brillant has raised concerns about the efforts of Fisheries and Oceans following the detection of North Atlantic right whales in the Bay of Fundy. The presence of these whales in an area where both Canadian and American fishermen catch lobster has prompted temporary fishing prohibitions to protect the endangered species.

Fisheries and Oceans announced several prohibited fishing areas in October after multiple right whales were detected in various fishing spots across the Maritimes, including the Bay of Fundy. When a right whale is detected in a managed area, fishing using non-tended fixed gear is prohibited for 15 days. If a whale is detected during days nine to 15 of the prohibition period, the ban is extended.

The lobster fishery in the Bay of Fundy is particularly concerning as the season is set to start in mid-November. Sean Brillant, a senior conservation biologist at the Canadian Wildlife Federation, expressed worries about the impact on harvesters if the whales continue to linger in the area. Fishers may be unable to use traditional gear and will have to resort to ropeless gear, posing challenges for their livelihoods.

Brillant noted that up to 25 right whales were detected in parts of the Bay of Fundy recently. However, one whale was spotted just outside the disputed “grey zone” near Grand Manan, where both Canadian and American fishers operate. Fisheries and Oceans confirmed the presence of eight whales in the grey zone but stated that there are no fishing prohibitions in place in the area due to differences in management measures between the two countries.

Despite the challenges posed by the fishing prohibitions, efforts have been made in recent years to develop fishing methods that reduce the risk of entanglements for right whales. Brillant emphasized the importance of implementing whale-safe gear to protect the species while ensuring the safety of harvesters.

Melanie Sonnenberg of the Grand Manan Fishermen’s Association highlighted the economic hardships faced by fishers due to bad weather and fishing restrictions. While fishers are adopting new equipment to prevent whale entanglements, finding a balance between conservation and livelihoods remains a challenge.

Fisheries and Oceans are committed to introducing whale-safe gear in the Bay of Fundy while collaborating with U.S. counterparts to ensure the safety of harvesters. The ongoing efforts aim to protect North Atlantic right whales and support sustainable fishing practices in the region.