Scientific Elements of the Northern Gulf of St. Lawrence (NAFO 3Pn4RS) Atlantic Cod Rebuilding Plan

Abstract

The Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) stock in the northern Gulf of St. Lawrence (NAFO 3Pn4RS) is below its limit reference point. Given the new Fish Stock Provisions that came into force by regulation in April 2022, this means that Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) is legally required to develop a rebuilding plan for this stock. A rebuilding plan comprises several elements, many of which are defined or supported by information and analyses provided by DFO’s Science sector. More specifically, it is under the purview of DFO Science to provide scientifically defensible options for a rebuilding target and rebuilding timeline (Tmin), to evaluate the probability of meeting rebuilding objectives and timelines based on different fishery management options proposed, to identify indicators for tracking rebuilding progress and guide decisions for the periodic review of the rebuilding plan. Peer review of these new elements and analyses is an important step in ensuring that they constitute the best science possible based on the available data, resources and timeline for their development.