Welcome to the Inverness South Fishermen's Association Homepage

Gulf NS Halibut Fishery: Fisheries  and  Oceans  Canada  announces  that  the  Atlantic halibut
fishery will open for Gulf Nova Scotia fixed-gear licence holders, using vessel
class A69, in the
portions of NAFO Division 4T known as 4T9a and 4T9b.
The fishery will be opening from 5:00 am to 1:00 pm on Thursday, June 27.
This period may be modified due to inclement weather or other circumstances.
Should the fishery not open June 27, alternate opening dates will be on
Friday, June 28 or Saturday, June 29.
If conditions do not allow for an opening any of these days,
industry will be consulted before a new date is announced.
Should  portions  or  all  of  4T9a  and  4T9b  close  due  to  the  North  Atlantic  right  whales  dynamic closure protocol, Atlantic halibut fishing for the vessel class A69 will be permitted but it will be mandatory to closely attend fishing gear
as identified in the conditions of licence. There  is  approximately  8.764  t
of quota remaining for  the 2019 GNS Atlantic halibut  spring fishery.
Bursary Program for Women and Indigenous People: To meet demand and diversify the workforce, the federal government is providing more than $2 million in bursaries for women and indigenous people. Amazing opportunity to have 90% of marine training costs covered or receive a $5,000 bursary towards marine programs at NSCC:
Area 12 Snow Crab Fishery: DFO has released the Notice to Fish Harvesters announcing that the Snow Crab fishery in Area 12 will close as scheduled on July 1, 2019 at 00:00 hrs Atlantic daylight time (ADT).
2019 Spring Halibut Fishery: Upon review of the weather forecast for the Wednesday opening, DFO has issued a request for the Variation Order to open Wednesday, June 19 at 5:00 am.
2019-2020
GULF NOVA SCOTIA
–
ATLANTIC HALIBUT (4T)
FIXED GEAR FLEET, VESSEL CLASS A69
SPRING FISHERY
OPENING DATE
Antigonish
–
June  14, 2019
:
Fisheries  and  Oceans  Canada  announces  that  the  Atlantic halibut
fishery will open for Gulf Nova Scotia fixed-gear licence holders, using
vessel class A69, in the portions of NAFO Division 4T known as
4T9a and 4T9b.
The fishery will be opening at 5:00 am on Wednesday, June 19 and closing on  Thursday, June 20, 2019 at 5:00 pm.
This period may be modified due to inclement weather or other circumstances.
Should  the  fishery  not  open  June  19,  alternate  opening  dates
will  be  on  Thursday,  June  20  or 
Friday,  June  21.  If  conditions  do  not  allow  for  an  opening  any  of  these  days, industry  will  be
consulted before a new date is announced.
Should  portions  or  all  of  4T9a  and  4T9b  close  due  to  the  North  Atlantic  right  whales dynamic closure protocol, Atlantic halibut fishing for the vessel class A69 will be permitted but it will be
mandatory to closely attend fishing gear as identified in the conditions of licence.
The allocation for the 2019 Atlantic halibut spring fishery is 45.8t
.
Groundfish/Halibut TAC Notice to Fishers: DFO has released the 2019 TAC for Groundfish and halibut, click the link below to read:
Fisheries Closures for May 30th: Please find attached a Notice to Fish Harvesters regarding fisheries closures in the Southern Gulf of St. Lawrence due to the presence of North Atlantic Right Whales (NARW).
Fisheries Openings for May 28th: Please find attached a Notice to Fish Harvesters regarding the opening of grids previously closed due to the presence of North Atlantic Right Whales (NARW), as well as a document including the coordinates of all remaining closed grids.
ATLANTIC MACKEREL
MANAGEMENT PLAN 2018
The Minister has set the Total Allowable
Catch (TAC) for the Atlantic Mackerel
fishery for 2019.
The 2019 TAC for the commercial catch is
set at 8,000 tonnes under a one-year
management plan.
Please be advised that the department will
implement new gear restrictions and
reporting requirements to improve
monitoring of landings in the commercial
and bait mackerel fisheries for some fleets
in Atlantic Canada and Quebec.
The minimum fish size for commercial
mackerel retention will increase from 263
to 268mm as determined by the new stock
assessment.
The temporary freeze on the issuance of
new commercial mackerel licences for
fixed and mobile gear effective July 27,
2017 will continue. This includes the
addition of new gear types to existing
commercial licences.
NOTICE OF FISHERIES CLOSURES: PRESENCE OF NORTH ATLANTIC RIGHT WHALES
 
Moncton (New Brunswick) – May 14, 2019 – Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) – Gulf Region is providing a notice of temporary fisheries closures of a fishing area due to the confirmed presence of North Atlantic Right Whales (NARW). Due to the confirmed presence of more than three NARW outside the dynamic management area, the following grids will be closed on May 17, 2019 at 5:00 p.m. Atlantic Daylight Time (ADT): GU42, GU43, GU44, GV42, GV43, GV44, GV45, GW42, GW43, GW44, GW45, GX43, GX44, GX45.  
 
DFO is providing a 72 hours advanced notice of a fishery closure. All gear must be removed from the closed area before the time of closure.   The closure will be in effect for the following fisheries where the fishing seasons are currently opened: Snow Crab, Toad crab, Rock Crab, Lobster, Whelk, Greenland Halibut (fixed gear) and Winter Flounder (fixed gear). The closure will also be in effect for Atlantic Halibut (fixed gear), Mackerel (gillnet) and Herring (gillnet) when gear is left unattended.  DFO asks licence holders to be vigilant during fishing activities concerning the presence of North Atlantic Right Whales. Furthermore, please be  reminded that it is the responsibility of the licence holder to take into account the marine safety notices issued, amongst others, by Environment and Climate Change Canada and Transport Canada, as well as the standards and best practices in marine safety, and to take all measures to ensure safe fishing operations.
Regular updates and maps indicating sightings will be posted at the following address: http://dfo-mpo.gc.ca/species-especes/mammals-mammiferes/narightwhale-baleinenoirean/alert-alerte/index-eng.html
2019-20 INTERIM TAC FOR ATLANTIC HALIBUT AND GREENLAND HALIBUT IN THE GULF OF ST. LAWRENCE (4RST)
 
 Moncton, Québec, Dartmouth, St. John’s –The Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) announces today an interim Total Allowable Catch (TAC) for the Atlantic halibut and Greenland halibut fishery in the Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organization (NAFO) Divisions 4RST.
 
An interim TAC of 1,500 t for Greenland halibut will be authorized for the inshore fixed gear fleet and allocated according to current shares. Once a decision on the 2019 TAC is confirmed for this fishery, final allocations will be provided.
 
An interim TAC of 650 t for Atlantic halibut will be authorized and allocated to only the inshore and mid-shore fixed gear fleets according to their current shares. Once a decision on the 2019 TAC is confirmed for this fishery, final allocations will be provided.
Lobster Season Closing Dates: Moncton, NB – May 3 2019
– Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) is announcing
that the Lobster fishery in Lobster Fishing Area
LFA 24,
LFA 26A-2, and
LFA 26B South will open at 06:00 a.m. on Friday May 3rd, 2019 and will remain open until Wednesday July 3rd, 2019. 
LFA 26A-1 & A-3 will open at 06:00 a.m. on Friday May 3
rd, 2019 and will remain open until Saturday June 29, 2019. The Department will evaluate requests for a season extension later in the season.
LFA 26A-1   from Point Prim to Victoria, Prince Edward Island (PEI)
and LFA 26B North are projected to be open from 6:00 a.m. on Monday May 6, 2019 until Saturday July 6, 2019, 
subject to weather conditions
in each area. Another Notice to Fish Harvesters will be sent out if
weather conditions do not permit an opening.
DFO wishes to remind fish harvesters to take extra care when navigating on the opening day of
the lobster fishery as vessels are loaded with gear and traps.  Harvesters are encouraged to act
diligently in setting their traps and should ensure that vessels are loaded safely by reducing the
quantity of gear if necessary.
Fish harvesters must also exercise caution when navigating in location
s where dredging
operations are on-
going.
EPIRB Registration - Reminder, You can register your emergency beacon information:
-online (www.cbr-rcb.ca)
-by faxing or emailing a completed registration form (see attachment) (cbr@sarnet.dnd.ca)


Your beacon should have been delivered with a Registration Form included in the box with some of the fields already filled out.  Some models have the details of the beacon on a sticker which is not placed on the beacon and it is critical to do so.  The HEX code is the unique identifier of the beacon and is what the Coast Guard uses when investigating a beacon (15 digits starting with either 278,279,A78 or A79)


When a beacon is properly registered, we immediately get any information in the registration which includes vessel details and emergency contacts.  This is a vital part of a quick response for distress and reduces effort exhausted for false alarms.  If we cannot identify the source in a timely manner, assets are tasked to investigate and could be delayed for an actual distress.  There is also the possibility that a beacon is transmitting but a position cannot be determined, the registration info is all we have to investigate.

A blank registration form is available below.
Lobster Opening Update for May 1st from DFO - LOBSTER FISHING AREAS (LFA) 24, 26A AND 26B SOUTH OPENING
 
Moncton, NB – May 1, 2019 – Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) is announcing that the Lobster fishery in Lobster Fishing Area LFA 24, LFA 26A and LFA 26B South will open at 06:00 a.m. on Friday May 3nd, 2019. LFA 26A-1 from Point Prim to Victoria, Prince Edward Island (PEI) will open at 6:00 a.m. on Monday May 6, 2019, subject to weather conditions.
 
DFO wishes to remind fish harvesters to take extra care when navigating on the opening day of the lobster fishery as vessels are loaded with gear and traps.  Harvesters are encouraged to act diligently in setting their traps and should ensure that vessels are loaded safely by reducing the quantity of gear if necessary. 
 
Fish harvesters must also exercise caution when navigating in locations where dredging operations are on-going.
 
 
Lobster Opening Update for May 1st - Season Opening at 6am on FRIDAY, MAY 3RD. No more calls will take place regarding the season opening. I will post the official Notice to Fishers from DFO when I receive it. Inverness South is submitting a request for a day for day extension. We will post the response from DFO when we receive it. 
Snow Crab Fishery Update for April 29th - SNOW CRAB FISHERY OPENING DATE:
CRAB FISHING AREAS 12 (12, 18, 25 AND 26) and 12E
Moncton and Quebec – April 29, 2019
Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) announces the opening date of the snow crab fishery in Crab Fishing Areas 12 (12, 18, 25 and 26) and 12E.
The fishery will open at 00:01 Atlantic Daylight Time (ADT) on May 2, 2019.
The fishery will close on July 1, 2019 at 00:00 hrs ADT. All gear must be removed from the water before the end of the day June 30, 2019.
All licence conditions will be valid for the entire fishing season.
All aid to navigation buoys may not all have been placed. Licence holders are advised to exercise extreme caution.
Furthermore, it is reminded that, during the period where fishing is authorized, it is the responsibility of the licence holder to take into account the marine safety notices issued, among others, by Environment and Climate Change Canada and Transport Canada, as well as the standards and best practices in marine safety, and to take all measures to ensure a safe fishery.
Lobster Season Update for April 29th - DFO announces the delay of lobster fisheries in LFA 24, LFA 26A and LFA 26B South.  The lobster fishery in these areas will not open on Tuesday April 30th, 2019.
 Another call is to take place on  TUESDAY April 30th, 2019 at 3h30 pm for LFA 26A and LFA 26B South. 
A separate call will take place for LFA 24 at 8h00 am tomorrow, a separate email with dial-in numbers will be sent out by the PEI area office.
Area 12 Snow Crab Season Update for April 27th: The Committee held its 6th call this morning. The weather predictions are not looking favorable for an opening tomorrow to allow enough time for fish harvesters to safely go out to set their traps.
As such, the next call will take place on Monday at 10:30 (Atlantic Time) to discuss a potential opening on Tuesday or Wednesday.
2nd Lobster Update for April 27th: due to high winds, the lobster fishery in LFA 24, 26A and 26 B South will not open on Monday April 29, 2019 as targeted. 
 
For the safety of all involved, the season opening will be delayed until the weather improves.

​Another call is to take place on MONDAY April 29th, 2019 at 10h00 am.  Note the change in time to allow Environment Canada to do our call and the snow crab ice committee call at 10h30.

Lobster Update for April 27th: Season has been delayed. Another conference call will take place Monday, April 29th at 10:15am.
Crab Tender Draw Results: Our quota was awarded to 3 fishers:
Blenise Young
Craig Cameron
and Dennis Cameron 
will be fishing our quota for $1.00 per pound
Snow Crab Update for April 25th: DFO held the 5th conference call to discuss the opening of the snow crab fishery in Area 12 and 12E.
Ice conditions are still an issue in northern NB. 
 The next call will take place Saturday afternoon at 3:30 Atlantic Time to discuss a potential opening on Sunday.
DFO will let us know if anything changes.
Lobster Season Update for April 25th: DFO will have their annual weather conference-call for the opening of the spring lobster fishery, LFA 24, LFA 26A and LFA 26B South Saturday, April 27th at 11:00 AM to go over the weather forecast for the scheduled opening of Monday April 29, 2019
Snow Crab Update for April 24th: DFO had  provided an update on the status of the Snow Crab fishing season in Areas 12 and 12E.

·         The Snow Crab Area 12 Committee for the opening date held a 4th conference call this afternoon to discuss the status of the opening of the Snow Crab fishery.
·         The hovercraft continues to do its work in northern New Brunswick. The ice is all broken up, however, the winds have pushed the ice all back against the Shippagan and Caraquet wharves and boats are unable to move. We are hoping that the ice will shift out of the wharves by tomorrow.
·         The Committee will hold a 5th  call tomorrow, April 25th at 10:30 (Atlantic time) to discuss a potential opening on either tomorrow evening at 18h00, or Friday am at 06h00 (Atlantic Time), if the ice can move away from the NB wharves.
·         DFO will provide another update to industry following that call.
Crab Tender Meeting: We will hold our 2019 crab tender meeting on Thursday, April 25th at 7pm at the Mabou Fire Hall. Quota this year is 59.391t.
Snow Crab Fishery Update for April 22nd: DFO has sent an update on the status of the Snow Crab fishing season in Areas 12 and 12E.
·       The Snow Crab Area 12 Committee for the opening date held a third conference call this afternoon to discuss the status of the opening of the Snow Crab fishery.
·       The hovercraft was in Caraquet Thursday evening, but unfortunately had to return to the Matapedia area on Saturday to help with flooding issues.
·       The hovercraft has returned to NB and is currently doing its work in Caraquet and will return to Shippagan afterwards to finish clearing ice in a few spots. The hovercraft will then clear the channels afterwards and do work on the other side of the bridge.
·       Shippagan: 90% of the fleet is in the water, and the rest of the boats will go in the water tomorrow.
·       Caraquet: the boats will start going in the water tomorrow and will take 2-3 days to have all boats in the water.
·       High winds are predicted until Friday.
·       The Committee will hold a 4th  call on Wednesday, April 24th late in the afternoon to discuss a potential opening date.
·       DFO will provide another update to industry following that call.
High Water Alarms: High water alarms are in. We need a volunteer from each wharf to distribute for us. If you are interested in helping please let us know asap. Mabou, the Coal Mines, and Inverness are already looked after.
Area 12 Snow Crab Fishery Update for April 19th: DFO has sent an email to provide an update on the status of the Snow Crab fishing season in Areas 12 and 12E.

·         The Snow Crab Area 12 Committee for the opening date held two conference calls so far to discuss the status of the opening of the Snow Crab fishery.
·         Ice is still an issue in the ports in northern New Brunswick (NB): Shippagan and Caraquet.
·         Hovercraft services in Northern NB
o   The CCG hovercraft attempted to make its way to Shippagan earlier this week but was forced to divert to alleviate flooding issues in Matapedia.
o   The hovercraft broke down a few times and once it got repaired had to continue work to present flooding issues.
o   The Canadian Coast guard just confirmed that the hovercraft is currently on its way to northern NB and was expected to be in Caraquet yesterday evening.
·         The Committee will hold a 3rd call on Monday, April 22nd, in the afternoon to get an update on the situation.
·         DFO will provide another update to industry following that call.
Lobster Harvesting Plan and New Management Measures Notice to Fishers: DFO has released the management plan for lobster for 2019. Click below to read the Notice to Fishers: 
Spring Herring Fishery: DFO has released the Conservation and Harvesting Plans for the Spring Herring Fishery. Click below to read:
Inverness South Halibut Meeting: In preparation for the upcoming DFO halibut meeting, we will hold a meeting on Sunday, April 21st at 7pm at the Mabou fire hall. This meeting will be to discuss Halibut only.
DFO Halibut Meeting: there will be a meeting at the Port Hood Fire Hall on April 25, 2019 beginning 2:00pm to discuss the GNS halibut fishery.
The number of seats at the table will be limited to 2 per group.

Lobster Tag Question: Just for everyone's information, we have had several people ask us about this, the number 18 on our lobster tags is not an error, and does not represent the current year. That number is the DFO assigned tag supplier number. It tells DFO who supplied that particular tag. 
E-Logs -  find below a Notice to Fish Harvesters concerning the progressive implementation of the electronic logbook (ELOG) in the Snow Crab, Shrimp and Lobster fisheries in the Gulf Region.
North Atlantic Right Whale - Please see below the Notice to Fish Harvesters for stakeholders in the Gulf Region providing the details of the 2019 management measures to protect the North Atlantic Right Whale.
Dockside Monitoring Information: DFO has asked us to inform everyone that the dockside monitoring company, Seefish Dockside Monitors, is no longer designated in the Maritimes and Gulf Regions. Fish harvesters who previously had agreements with Seefish will now be required to enter into a contract with another dockside monitoring company. 
Below is a list of dockside monitoring companies who are designated in the Gulf Region:
Snow Crab 2019: DFO has released the TAC, the Conservation Harvesting Plan, and Allocation numbers for 2019.
GSL 16F Fall Herring Gillnet Fishery: The draft 3rd Surveillance Audit of the 16F Fall Herring Fishery is available to be read. Click the link below to read. The 3rd audit report will be finalized and published on the MSC website on or before April 30th.
Atlantic Mackerel Advisory Committee Meeting: Held March 28th in Halifax, NS. Trevor MacInnis attended for Inverness South. Some notes from the meeting:
Stock assessment was completed March 1
- large amount of Canadian mackerel being caught in the US
-recruitment and conditions being affected by warming waters
-spawning biomass is 1/20 of what it was in the 80’s
-2017 and2018 recruitment at all time lows
- 2015 age class has carried the fishery the last 2 years
-representatives from NFLD seriously question whether their fish might be a separate stock and have a different spawning ground
-dfo science says it is likely that small southern gulf fish are the same fish NFLD is catching after growing all summer (everyone agreed more study needed)
-new management plan to address 1)amount of recruitment, 2) fish mortality 3)amount of fish caught that is not accounted for, whether in the US, bait fishery or recreation fisheries
Next steps- rebuilding stock and keeping positive growth projections vs acceptable TAC
Marine Basic First Aid: Heidi Connors is offering Marine Basic First Aid at several locations over the next few months:
ROC MC in April: If anyone needs their ROC-MC for this season, it is being offered once more before the start of lobster:
ROC MC
Nautical Institute
Class #: 2131
Dates: April 16 - 18, 2019
Price: $450
This Industry Canada approved course will enable radio station personnel to efficiently utilize aspects of the GMDSS communications systems applicable to Sea Area 1 operations. This course adheres to the fundamental recommendations for training of maritime radio personnel as outlined in the Industry Canada RIC-25. Upon successful completion of this course, ROC-MC Certificates will be issued.
To register contact:
nautical@nscc.ca
902-625-4228
*this will be our last ROC MC offering until June
 
Christena MacMillan
Marine Administrative Assistant
Nova Scotia Community College
Nautical Institute
Office: 902-625-4334
Web: nscc.ca
http://www.nscc.ca/learning_programs/marine_training/marine/
PFD Requirements: Transport Canada has sent a message to everyone which should help clarify the requirements regarding PFDs. Click the link to read:
Atlantic Groundfish Advisory Committee Meeting: Trevor MacInnis and Eugene Beaton attended for Inverness South. Some notes from the meeting:
​
-the grey seal herd continues to be the biggest obstacle to southern gulf cod and whitehake recovery

-science is stating that with significant reduction in the herd , as much as 65 to 75 % , southern gulf cod would barley sustain it’s present stock
Sent from my iPhone
-white hake fares only a little better with it’s stock being at historic lows as well

-Redfish and halibut stocks have been increasing and are in healthy zones right now

-there was a proposal of up to a 30% increase in the TAC for halibut

-North of Smokey fisher association recommended the spring halibut season open April 1st or whenever the ice goes

-species that are deep water fish are doing much better than shallow fish, since they at much less risk of predation from seals
Humane Harvesting Training: For anyone requiring this type of training, sessions are coming up:
HUMANE HARVESTING TRAINING


NORTH SYDNEY
LOCATION: CLANSMAN MOTEL
WHEN: APRIL 16, 2019 - 8:30 AM
COST: $250 PER PERSON


NEIL’S HARBOUR
LOCATION: NEIL’S HARBOUR FIRE HALL
WHEN: APRIL 17, 2019 – 8:30 AM
COST: $250 PER PERSON
Please Register BEFORE April 12, 2019

Contact:
Becs
Telephone: 902-794-2227
Email: Becs@capebretonfish.com

Sandra
Telephone: 902-742-6167
Email: Sandra@nsfsc.ca

Update to Volunteer Request: We have 2 members who have responded to our request for help. Brian Hinkley will join Jordan on the board and Howie Beaton will be our alternate. 
Thank you to both of them, Jordan greatly appreciates the help.

Important: Volunteers Needed: Jordan needs 2 volunteers to join him on the Fleet Planning Board (1 would be an alternate). So far Jordan has asked several members to join him on the board but everyone has refused. To remain in the Fleet Planning Board, our organization needs to have 2 members and an alternate. These names must be submitted by March 20th.
Please keep in mind that the Fleet Planning Board is the organization that has supplied the safety equipment and is funding the training programs. It is important that we remain a member of the Fleet Planning Board, but we need a few volunteers to do so.
If anyone is interested in joining Jordan on the FPB, please contact us ASAP. 
Season Date Change: Since the last discussion about changing our season dates due to June 30th falling on a sunday, DFO reached out to inform us that we were the only LFA in the Gulf that had not requested to change our season dates. As such, we have decided to submit the date change in order to be in line with everyone else. Therefore, as long as we are not delayed by the ice, we will have an April 30th start (setting on Monday, April 29th) and a Saturday, June 29th closure. 
DFO has informed us that this will have no effect on any decision that may have to be made if we are delayed due to ice conditions. They are considered 2 separate issues.
ELogs: ELogs are coming! Voluntary for 2019, mandatory for 2020.
2019 Tag Delivery: Here is the schedule for 2019 tag delivery in Southern Inverness County: THURSDAY, MARCH 14TH, 2019
Judique Store 10 am
Murphy’s Pond Wharf 11 am
Mabou Arena Parking lot 1 pm
Inverness Wharf 2 pm
For more information call:
902-224-1100
Update: Changing Season Dates: Jordan has heard from several fishers concerned about the proposed request to change our lobster season dates. As such, we will NOT be submitting a request and will leave the season dates as they are. Thank you to everyone who called, emailed and messaged. Your input is greatly appreciated!
Changing Season Dates: This season our opening falls on Tuesday, April 30th with our closure falling on Sunday, June 30th. In order to avoid a Sunday closure, we are planning to ask DFO to shift our season dates to opening on Monday, April 29th with a closure on Saturday, June 29th. If anyone disagrees with this, we ask that you call Jordan (902) 302-0038 on Monday and let him know.
Small Pelagics Advisory Committee Meeting: Jordan MacDougall attended the Small Pelagics Advisory Committee Meeting in Moncton, NB on February 21st. Some notes from the meeting:

Chaired by Marc LeCouiffe
Overall discussion centered on the decline in herring landings. The landings have been declining for years. There seemed to be no consensus on a TAC for 2019.
The mackerel fishery is changing. A lot of small and undersized mackerel in the Gulf area. Newfoundland is in better shape as far as mackerel landings. There are larger mackerel there. 
Also discussed was the Marine Mammal Protection Act. Jordan also attended the first meeting on Dec. 6, 2018 in Moncton. We will have to meet US criteria by 2021. We have to meet this criteria or our exports will be denied entry into the US. The Department of Fisheries is working hard to meet this criteria. 

Tuna Board Meeting With DFO: Jordan MacDougall attended a Tuna meeting on January 28th in Antigonish. The Tuna Board met with Alan Dwyer, Ron Pumphrey, and Serge Doucet. The main topic was pressure being put on DFO to support a pilot project. The project is being headed by John Couture. The project has to do with going with an ITQ and sharing amongst a group of tuna fishers in the Gulf fleet. DFO wanted to inform the Tuna Board of this project. However, the Board doesn't support the pilot project. A vote was taken and over 70% of members want the status quo.
Also discussed was putting in a proposal for green sticks with the Atlantic Fish 
​Fund.
Maine Atlantic Herring Fishery Quota Severely Cut for 2019: The Maine Herring Fishery quota for 2019 has been cut from 50,000mt to 21,000mt due to low recruitement numbers. Seafood news has a very interesting article on this cut and its effects, click the link to read:
Atlantic Fisheries Fund: It is important to note that anyone can submit a proposal to the Atlantic Fisheries Fund. (They have a recommended cut off of a minimum request of more than $10,000). Click the links below to read the Application and Proposal Guidelines and to view a template developed by the NS Dept. of Fisheries to help get a proposal organized:
Atlantic Fisheries Fund Proposal: We are asking for everyone to send in ideas for inclusion in our proposal to the Atlantic Fisheries Fund. As discussed at the AGM, we are intending to submit a proposal for funding under the AFF. We are looking at a proposal centered on maintaining the maximum quality of our product while on our vessels. Most live wells tested do not pass oxygen level tests.  We are considering a proposal to equip everyone interested with the best in lobster quality control.... new hoses, water pumps, live well tanks, canopies, oxygen level testers, etc... We are asking for suggestions for this proposal. At this point, we are looking for fishers to suggest items they would like to see in the proposal and we will compile a list of materials that would likely get approval. Once the list is made, we will ask interested fishers to identify which items they would be interested in requesting. 
The fund will provide non-repayable funding of 80% of the total cost of our proposal. 20% will have to come from interested fishers. Of this 20%, 10% can be "in kind" and 10% must be in cash.
We will be conducting meetings regarding this proposal as things come together more.
For now, we are asking that everyone send in their ideas for the proposal via email or mail.
We are allowed to submit multiple proposals over the remaining 6 year term of the fund, so we would like to begin with this project and possibly submit other projects in the future. 
2019 AGM Minutes: The minutes from the 2019 AGM are available to be read. Click the link below: 
4th Annual Marine Tradeshow: ​PEI Fishermen’s Association, in conjunction with their AGM/Conference, is proudly hosting their 4th Annual Marine Tradeshow February 22nd (10am-5pm) and 23rd (9am-12) at the Delta Prince Edward in Charlottetown. They have over 70 marine orientated exhibitors at this year’s show. The show is open to the public and admission is FREE!
The 2 day event is a great platform for the exhibitors to show their product to the fishermen and guests and for everyone to network for the upcoming fishing seasons.
Recreational Fisheries Advisory Meetings: The slide presentations from the meetings are available below:
NARW Protection Measures for 2019:​ The Government has implemented a few changes to the measures taken to protect the NARW for the 2019 season. Click the link below to read the entire press release:​
AGM: Thank you to everyone who attended our 2019 AGM. The minutes will be posted soon as well as some links to information discussed.
2019 AGM Reminder: Reminder that our AGM will be held Tuesday, February 5th at 2pm at the Mabou Parish Hall.
Guest speakers will be:
1. Victoria Cullen (Fleet Planning Board) - 2018 science review
2. Neil Pardy - Fisheries Loan Board
3. Don Martell - Safety and Compliance
4. Stacey Frame and Brenda Bradford - Atlantic Fisheries Fund
We hope to see everyone there! 
MSC Suspends all North East Atlantic Mackerel Certificates, pending ICES review of Stocks: An interesting article from Seafood News regarding the suspension of MSC certification for North East Atlantic Mackerel effective March 2, 2019, pending review of stocks. Click the link to read:
Course availability from NSCC: There are still seats available for the following:
MED SDV-BS
An 8 hour MED with respect to Small Non-pleasure Domestic Vessel Basic Safety.
January 28, 2019
8:30 AM - 4:00 PM
 
SVOP (Small Vessel Operator Proficiency)
This course meets the requirements of a stand-alone course that addresses the particular need for minimum training of operators of commercial vessels, other than tugs, and fishing vessels up to 15 gross tonnage or 12 meters overall length engage on a near coastal, class 2 (including an inland voyage on Lake Superior or Lake Huron) or a sheltered waters voyage.

January 29 - February 01, 2019
Time: 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM
 
MED DVS (Domestic Vessel Safety)
This course is designed to provide first time seafarers with the minimum knowledge of emergency response required to safely work aboard a vessel; to determine the hazards associated with the marine environment and their own vessel, and of how to prevent shipboard incidents including fire.
To apply you must be at least 15 years of age and hold a valid Transport Canada Seafarer's Medical.
Feb 12-14th, 2019
8:30 AM - 4:00 PM
 
Call to book your seat today at 625-4228 or by email: nautical@nscc.ca


If you have any questions please let me know!
Christena


Christena MacMillan
Marine Administrative Assistant
Nova Scotia Community College
Nautical Institute
Office: 902-625-4334
Web: nscc.ca
http://www.nscc.ca/learning_programs/marine_training/marine/

2019 Minister's Conference: For anyone interested in attending, this is a very informative conference coming up in February:
Escape Size Vote:​ Thank you to everyone who returned their ballot. Vote results are in:
19 voted No Change
9 voted to increase to 46mm
31 voted to increase to 47mm
Therefore, we will be submitting a request to DFO to have the increase to 47mm put in our conditions. 
Important: We will be requesting that the change take place for the 2020 season, not for the upcoming 2019 season, in order to give everyone more time. 
Gulf Nova Scotia Fleet Planning Board Meeting: Jordan MacDougall attended the Gulf Nova Scotia Fleet Planning Board meeting in Stellarton on December 13, 2018. Some notes from the meeting:

Gulf Nova Scotia Fleet Planning Board Meeting
Stellarton, NS
December 13, 2018

Notes:
The morning session discussed the scientific fishery for Atlantic Halibut, the 2018 temperature data, and a professor from St. FX discussed a science project. The 2018 science data for lobster is available on the Fleet Planning Board website at www.fleetplanningboard.ca.

​There were 5 guest speakers during the afternoon session:

​1. Tom LeBlanc – Department of Labour
a. There have been 17 fishing related deaths in Canada this year. He announced there are going to be more inspections and charges for non-compliance.
b. The Department of Labour did 44 compliance checks in South West Nova and charged 4 fishers for not wearing PFDs. The first fine is $100.00 for the helper and $500.00 for the Captain; the fines double for second offenses.
c. One Captain had a crew member drown; he is facing a $100,000 fine and community service time.

2. Rob Freake – Transport Canada
a. He discussed all aspects of boat compliance, from life rafts to PFDs to flares.
b. He stressed that if anything happens, you want to be compliant.
c. It is necessary for fishers to meet both federal and provincial regulations.

3. Ralph Heighton – Provincial Representative
a. He talked about the Atlantic Fisheries Fund. Nova Scotia is behind the other provinces when it comes to projects. He encourages any fisher or organization to apply for funding. You can go to https://www.canada.ca/en/fisheries-oceans/news/2017/08/the_atlantic_fisheriesfundopenforbusinesscanadaandtheatlanticpro.html to find out about qualifications and how to apply.
b. The Loan Board can lend more funds without going to the Ministry, up to 5 million dollars. The Province is open to refinancing bank loans. Check out their website at https://novascotia.ca/fish/funding-programs/how-to-apply/. Contact Nicole Sampson, Coastal Resource Coordinator, for help at 902-631-1476.

4. / 5. Allan Dwyer and Ron Pumphrey – Department of Fisheries and Oceans
a. Ron talked about learning the new job.
b. Both men stressed that they would prefer to hear from the fishing organizations, rather than individual fishers. With so many fishers with different opinions, they find it better to have the organizations present the ideas or plans of individual fishers.
Articles Worth Reading: www.seafoodnews.com has several very interesting articles:

Nova Scotia looks to keep redfish quota as other provinces want in:
https://www.seafoodnews.com/Story/1126326/Nova-Scotia-looks-to-keep-redfish-quota-as-other-provinces-want-in

Concern Mounts for Winter Season as Nova Scotia Lobster Landings Down Considerably
https://www.seafoodnews.com/Story/1126086/Concern-Mounts-for-Winter-Season-as-Nova-Scotia-Lobster-Landings-Down-Considerably

Lobster Exporters Extend Claws Toward New Markets
https://www.seafoodnews.com/Story/1126190/Lobster-Exporters-Extend-Claws-Toward-New-Markets
Atlantic Fisheries Fund: In August of 2017, the Government of Canada announced the Atlantic Fisheries Fund (AFF). The AFF will focus on growing opportunities and increasing market value for sustainably sourced, high quality fish and seafood products from Atlantic Canada. For more information, please click the links below:
Trawl Surveys for Snow Crab: Please be advised that the contract : ``Vessel charter to carry out trawl surveys for snow crab`` is now published at the following site: https://buyandsell.gc.ca/procurement-data/tender-notice/PW-18-00853951. This contract is for 2019 with options to renew for 2020 and 2021.
 
Gulf NS Lobster Advisory Committee: The Gulf NS Lobster Advisory Committee Meeting was held in Moncton Dec. 4 - 5. Wayne MacLellan attended for Inverness South. Some notes from the meeting:

Right Whales
- Enter the Gulf late April and leave in December
- 190 Right Whales were observed in the Gulf in 2018
- Only 1 Right Whale was observed inside 50 metres.

Electronic Log Books
- Voluntary in 2019
- Mandatory in 2020

Lobster Rope
- Lift lines to be marked in the future, no date or year set yet.
- All lobster fishing areas are on the up swing

Bait
- NO modified lobster traps allowed for Rock Crab (will be charged)
US MMPA and Market Accessibility: A meeting was held in Moncton, NB last week regarding the US Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) and Market Accessibility. The meeting presentation is available to be read on the link below:
Reminder of Mackerel Survey:  DFO would like to remind everyone of this researchers informal Mackerel survey. Her email follows:
Hello,
 I am a post-doctoral researcher from Belgium working in Canada on northwest Atlantic mackerel, together with scientists at the Maurice-Lamontagne Institute (DFO). In order to better estimate the size of the Canadian mackerel stock, I would like to have first-hand experiences of commercial, recreational and bait mackerel fishers on their activities. With better estimates of the mackerel stock size and its productivity I hope to be able to provide better management advice and stock predictions.
 The survey consists of 6 small parts and for most of the questions (about 12) there is space to write an explanation if you wish (and appreciated!). Unless specified otherwise, all questions concern the 2018 fishing season.
 This survey is completely anonymous and personal identifying information is not even collected by me.
 I would like to thank you in advance for filling in this survey (https://goo.gl/forms/HVQwcojkIrrI3HhU2). Please feel free to contact me by email or phone in addition to the survey.
 Elisabeth Van Beveren
 elisabeth.vanbeveren@dfo-mpo.gc.ca
418 509-3480
Important Notice of Maritime Link Submarine Cables from Emera Newfoundland & Labrador (Emera NL):  Emera Newfoundland & Labrador (Emera NL) has installed two submarine High voltage electricity cables across the Cabot Strait to interconnect the electrical grids of Nova Scotia and
Newfoundland. The cables run parallel from Cape Ray, NL and make landfall at Point Aconi, NS.
The attached map shows the location of the cable routes and the coordinates for the cable exit
locations near Cape Ray, NL and Point Aconi, NS. The locations of the cables were published on
the hydrographic chart update with Canadian Hydrographic Services (CHS) in December 2017.
The following CHS charts were updated: 4002, 4003, 4015, 4022, 4045, 4277, 4363, 4367 and
4823.
For the protection of all marine vessels equipment, as well as the personal safety of marine
crews, it is imperative that interactions with these high‐voltage electrical cables are avoided.
For more information, call Emera NL 1‐855‐722‐3373
Email: info_MaritimeLink@emera.com
Visit our website at: www.EmeraNL.com
Overview of the US Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) Import Provisions: In 2016, the U.S. published new regulations (81 FR 54390) implementing the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) import provisions pertaining to the reduction of marine mammal bycatch in foreign commercial fishing operations.  Under the import provisions, which take effect on January 1, 2022, harvesting nations intending to export fish and fish products to the U.S. must apply for and receive a comparability finding from the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) for each of its commercial fisheries.   Detailed information from the U.S. government on the MMPA import provisions can be found at: https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/foreign/marine-mammal-protection/noaa-fisheriesestablishes-international-marine-mammal-bycatch-criteria-us-imports
An overview of the import provisions can be read at the link below:

Important Upcoming Dates and Events:


​
​

Can/Us Exchange Rate:

Weekly Price Report:

Weekly Fish Price Report for the Weekly Period Ending September 29, 2018:
 
Agriculture & Fisheries      
 
LOBSTER (CANNERS):
PEI ...................................................................... $4.25 NB  ........................................................... $4.25-$4.50
 
 NOTE: Minimum carapace size for canners is 77.0 mm unless otherwise noted.  Minimum carapace size for markets is 81.0 mm unless otherwise noted.
 
 
LOBSTER (MARKETS):
PEI ...................................................................... $4.75 NB  ........................................................... $4.75-$5.00
 
 
ROCK CRAB:
PE ....................................................................... $0.70
 
 
OYSTERS:    
PEI Choice. .................................. $25.00-$28.00/peck        Standard .................................. $8.00-$10.00/peck  
 
 
BAR CLAMS:
PEI ............................................................ $0.40/piece
 
 
MACKEREL:
PEI ...................................................................... $0.50
 
 
EELS:
PEI ...................................................................... $3.00
 
 
 HERRING:
PEI ...................................................................... $0.40
 
 
QUAHAUGS:
PEI    
Small .................................... $0.17-$0.21/piece           
Medium. ......................................... $0.17/piece            Large .............................................. $0.17/piece
 
 
SOFTSHELL CLAMS:
PEI ...................................................................... $1.75
 
 
MUSSELS:
PEI ............................................................ $0.65-$0.70
 
 
NOTE: The above prices were effective for period ending June 30, 2018  and were paid to inshore fishers at dockside on a per pound basis unless otherwise stated. Prices do not include rebates or adjustments.  Prices are compiled based upon surveying a representative number of buyers and may not reflect all prices paid to fishers or aquaculturists.
 
 
This price report is available online:
 
www.princeedwardisland.ca/en/information/ agriculture-and-fisheries/weekly-fish-price-reports ​
Shortcuts to Links and Information:
Safety Forms: It is strongly recommended that all Captains print and use the following forms regarding safety onboard their vessel. In case of an accident, having completed these forms and completed the checklists will simplify the investigation and show due diligence on your part:
Notice a defective or hazardous navigation aid in or near your harbour?
Call the Canadian Coast Guard at the number below:
1-800-686-8676

A reminder to all fishers: all crew members are required to WEAR a certified PFD while working. If there is an accident on board your vessel, you can be held liable and be charged and fined if your helpers are not wearing them. Keep everyone safe - comfortable, small PFDs are available, easy to wear, and ensure your crew is safe.
SIN numbers Required for all fishers who receive crab share:
Due to issues that have arisen in recent years, the Canada Revenue Agency is requiring that we have each fishers SIN on their T4a.  In the past, if a fishers SIN was unknown, we could leave it off their T4a. This is no longer the case.

We are asking for all fishers who receive crab share from Inverness South to please send us your SIN as soon as possible if you have not already done so. Thank you for your cooperation!​​
Snow Crab Tagging Study: ​ DFO wishes to advise that a tagging study is currently being conducted by DFO Science in the southern Gulf of St. Lawrence to better understand the movement of snow crab. The Notice to Fishers below contains all the information regarding what to do if you capture a tagged crab:
The Northern Pulp Pipeline:​ The article below is an excellent read, with lots of information about Northern Pulp and the current fight against their intention to pipe effluent into the Strait. It was written by Linda Pannozzo and published in the Halifax Examiner on November 22, 2017. Click the link below:
Eastern Shore Fishermen worried about proposed Marine Protected Area:​The proposed marine protected area, taking in the Eastern Shore Islands, would be the first marine protected area along the Atlantic coast of Nova Scotia.
​Click the link below:

Snow Crab Fishery has MSC certification suspended: The death of several whales in 2017 have lead to the Snow Crab fishery in certain areas to have its MSC certification suspended. To read the article from www.seafoodsource.com, click the link below:
EPIRB Registration: The registration of 406MHz beacons is mandatory, and crucial, for Search and Rescue operations. Unfortunately, too many beacon owners are not registering them and it is resulting in many lost hours of Search and Rescue resource time during false alarms, which there have been too many of lately. During an actual emergency, a correctly registered beacon can provide critical information, such as contact information and communication details, that prevent delays in emergency response. Registration is free. In each EPIRB box, there is a registration form for the Canadian Beacon Registry that should be completed and returned via fax (1-877-406-3298) or email to cbr@sarnet.dnd.ca .  Users can also register online at www.cbr-rcb.ca . 
 
406MHz beacons must be self-tested as per the manufacturer’s instructions and the registration of these beacons must be kept up to date. Also, when a beacon is disposed of the Canadian Beacon Registry must be advised and the batteries must be removed to prevent activation from a disposal site. When a vessel is sold, or retired from service, the Canadian Beacon Registry must be advised of the fate of the EPIRB that is installed on board.
  
Do not hesitate to contact me should you have any questions or concerns  /  N'Hésitez pas à communiquer avec moi si vous avez des questions,
 
Angie Cornish
Administrator / Administrateur
 
Canadian Beacon Registry / Registre canadien des balises
PO Box 1000 Stn Forces / CP 1000 Succ. Forces
Astra, ON, K0K 3W0
Telephone:1-877-406-7671
Fax:1-877-406-3298
cbr@sarnet.dnd.ca
www.cbr-rcb.ca
National Defence / Défense nationale
Government of Canada / Gouvernement du Canada
Reporting Lost Traps within 72 hours: If you lose traps and need replacement tags, you must report the lost traps to DFO within 72 hours of losing them. This requirement is on page 2 of our lobster conditions. It states: 
2.8 REPORTING OF LOST GEAR
2.8.1 While fishing under this licence, the licence holder/operator shall report lost gear to
Fisheries and Oceans Canada. The following information shall be declared by email: DFO.GLF.Gear-
Engins.GLF.MPO@dfo-mpo.gc.ca within 72 hours of noticing that the gear has been lost:
a) sequence number of tag attached to the lobster trap that has been lost;
b) VRN or VIN
c) latitude and longitude of last known position of lost lobster trap; and
d) date the lobster trap was last fished.
ELOGS:​ DFO approved electronic logbook (ELOG) applications are now available and fish harvesters can register on the DFO web site to get their ELOG key to begin working with these new tools.

At this time the use of ELOGs in the Gulf Region is optional. There is a qualified client application for Gulf Snow crab – Area 12, traditional midshore fleet. More applications will follow as they are developed by the private sector.

For Members:

Please check our site daily for the most recent updates regarding :
- DFO announcements
- Meeting updates
- Changes to licensing and conditions
- All other information affecting fishers in our area 

If you wish to join:

Click on the link below, fill out the blank registry form, and mark Inverness South as your association of choice!

We welcome your feedback!

This site is intended to provide a central source of information relevant to our fishers. We have tried to make it as user-friendly and informative as possible.
If you have any suggestions on how we may improve this site, or any information you would like to see added, simply contact us using one of the methods available under the Contacts tab at the top of the page.

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