,.

Published by:

Communications Division Fisheries and Oceans

Newfoundland Region Po. Box 5667 St. John's, Nfld. A1C 5X1 (709) 772-4421 LES TEXTES SONT DISPONIBLES EN FRANCAIS SUR DEMANDE

ONEWFOUNOLAND REGION

.GULF REGION

Cover

Satellite photography, combined with special techni"ues such as the use of heat-sensitive film and computer-aided image enhancement, is one of the many sophisticated tools scientists use to track such factors as ocean currents and temperatures that influence the growth, migra­tion patterns and other dynamics of fish stocks. The cover photo, taken in October, 1984, illustrates the varying temperature range of waters sur­rounding the eastern half of Newfoundland. To the north and east, and surrounding the Avalon Peninsula, are the frigid trails of the Labrador Current (purple and Qlue). Flowing southward over the outer edge of the Grand Banks, they drive a cold wedge between large swatches of warmer Gulf Stream - influenced water (yellow and red) over the Banks and the Flemish Cap area. White patches are cloud cover.

DEPARTMENT OF FISHERIES AND OCEANS

NEWFOUNDLAND REGION ANNUAL REVIEW 1986

CONTENTS

BRANCH ............. 2 Groundfish Program Pelagic, Shellfish, and Marine Mammals Prnnrl'lm

Freshwater and Anadromous Fish Program Experimental Ecology Program Regional Library

AND HABITAT MANAGEMENT BRANCH ........................................ 8 Resource Management Division Fisheries Technology Transfer and Development Division Habitat Division Fishing Vessel Insurance Program

INSPECTION SERVICES BRANCH .......................................................20 Facility Inspection Fish and Fish Product Inspection tie,itoclC1 Quality Investigations Fish Inspection Laboratories

HARBOURS AND INFRASTRUCTURE BRANCH ............................................24 Industry Programs Division Engineering and Construction Division

PROGRAM COORDINATION AND ECONOMICS BRANCH ............... 28

FISHERIES STATISTICS AND SYSTEMS BRANCH ..........................................32

2

Science Branch The Science Branch of the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, Newfoundland Region, is responsible

for the departmental fisheries research program in the area extending from the Cabot Strait eastwards to the Flemish Cap and northwards to the continental shelf off Baffin Island. This involves research respon­sibilities for 24 groundfish stocks; 17 pelagic shellfish - marine mammal stocks; marine phase of mixed Atlantic salmon stocks originating from Newfoundland, Quebec and Maritime six Arctic charr stocks; and other commercial and potentially commercial species. The Branch is also responsible for pro­grams to develop salmonid resources and for of the Regional Library. Scientific advice on freshwater and marine resources, based on a wide range of scientific and technical disciplines, is provided to those involved in regional, national and international deliberations related to protection, development and rational utilization of fisheries resources.

Early in 1986 the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans announced the integration of fisheries research with oceanography and hydrography under a single Assistant Deputy Minister for Science. This led to a con­solidation of the department's four ocean science and seven fisheries management regions into six DFO Regions, and a number of changes in reporting relationships. Various budget reductions were announced and adjustments for departmental downsizing were made. The Fisheries Research Branch was renamed the Science Branch and Research Branch Director M.C. Mercer was appOinted Regional Director, Science, Newfoundland Region.

As part of the science integration initiative, and in order to increase the coherence and visibility of the department's scientific effort, further announcements were made by the minister on September 24, 1986:

o "Fisheries research and ocean science will be consolidated to improve their focus and the way in which the needs of the industry are served. The integration of fisheries and oceanographic science programs will provide more cost-effective and coordinated research with new emphasis being placed on high priority science

o "To eliminate duplication and better align scientific activities to priorities, they are being organized along disciplinary lines - biological science, physical and chemical science, and hydrography."

"National Centres of Disciplinary Expertise are being to ensure that there will be speCialized teams with sufficient resources to address critical long-term research issues". (Note: Centre for Resource Assessment and Survey Methodology established in Newfoundland Region.)

o "By redirecting some of the Department's current resources, oceanography and hydrography components will be established in St. John's, Newfoundland. For the first time, the Newfoundland Region will have a full range of science programs. Research on cod and crab will be increased, as will parasite studies and fisheries ecology. The creation of this new capability responds dirliCtly to expressed requirements of fishing industry and other private sector interests. The Newfoundland Region will also be the lead region for cod research".

In total, Science Branch staff in the Newfoundland Region will increase by 38.5 person years (22%) over the next two years. The hydrographic vessel MAXWELL (and crew) will also be assigned to Region in support of coastal These resources will permit new initiatives in areas of long-standing concern .to fisheries managers and the fishing industry.

As part of an overall organization and accountability review of the department, responsibilities for Atlantic Fish Habitat Management are assigned to the ADM, Atlantic Fisheries. In October 1986, definitions were developed of respective sector roles for Science and Atlantic Fisheries and Habitat Management regarding fish habitat. The general scope of habitat responsibilities under Science will now include: .. management and planning of the habitat science program .. management of habitat science issues .. the provision of scientific advice to Fisheries and Habitat Management respecting:

- fish and fish habitat and the impacts of human activities mitigative measures techniques for restoring and improving habitat

- habitat management area planning - public meetingS/hearings, public information and education/training

testimony .. biological effects monitoring .. baseline data gathering and trend analysis .. scientific and development .. expert witness .. scientific information and advisory services, including the preparation and dissemination of scientific

information on fish habitat and related departmental science programs .. provision of scientific criteria and other scientific advice in support of guidelines and regulations.

GROUNDASHPROGRAM

Groundfish researchers provide biological advice to national and international fisheries managers on the management of commercially and potentially commercially important of the Newfoundland-Labrador area.

In exercising this mandate, the Program relies on two data sources. Research vessel surveys provide in­formation on the distribution and abundance of various as well as on the various biological and physical parameters needed to understand the dynamics the various species. Biological samples from the commercial fishery provide data on the numbers and weight of fish removed at each age from the fishery each year and on relative abundance of stocks from year to year based on commercial catch rates.

The following paragraphs summarize Program activities and achievements during 1986.

o Assessments of 25 stocks subject to catch quota regulations were conducted and advice on TACs (Total Allowable Catch) for the 1987 fishing season was provided through either CAFSAC (Canadian Atlantic

Scientific AdviSOry Committee) or NAFO (Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organization). o Twenty-two cruises with research vessels were conducted. Seven of these were to measure changes

in abundance of resources and collect ancillary biological information. Three were seasonal surveys of NAFO 3L to evaluate changes in distribution and abundance of major groundfish species among the four seasons. One was a cruise to study the deepwater species of Greenland halibut and roundnose grenadier in Subareas 0+ 1. One was to further test the feasibility of using acoustic methods to estimate the abundance of groundfish. One was to study the factors affecting the inshore migration of cod by locating a body of cod in the offshore/nearshore and studying its behaviour in tion to temperature, capelin abundance and other environmental factors. One was a special cruise to the 2J3K area during the winter commercial fishery to estimate abundance of commercial concentrations. One was to investigate distribution and abundance of juvenile flatfish in the Grand Banks area with the aim of recruitment to the commercial fishery. One was to tag cod in the offshore area of Grand Banks. One was a special survey of Divisions One was a special survey to study distribution and

abundance of fish on either side of the 200 mile limit in the area of the "tail" of the Grand Bank. Two cruises on a smaller research vessel (SHAMOOK) were to tag cod in the Newfoundland-Labrador inshore area. One cruise on a smaller research vessel was to acoustically track and tag cod in the 3L inshore area. One cruise of a smaller research vessel was made to Labrador to coliect samples of cod from the commercial fishery.

o Biological samples were collected from the Canadian and foreign offshore fisheries; these data were used in the assessment of the various stocks.

o The acoustic and trawl survey on the GADUS ATLANTICA was successful in locating concentrations of cod only in the northern area near the Grey Islands. No concentrations were found in the southern areas where concentrations were found in 1985. Comparative rates of return from cod tagged off the Grey Islands and east of Funk Island gave better insights into the variability of inshore migration bet­ween the two areas off the northeast coast of Newfoundland.

o The first survey of Subareas 0+1 (Davis Strait) by the SCience Branch was conducted in 1986 and the results for Greenland halibut and round nose grenadier will be submitted to a NAFO Special Session in 1987 on "Biology of Demersal Resources of North Atlantic Continental Slope".

o Extensive analyses took place on survey data from the "nose" of the Grand Bank, documenting the proportions of various species outside the 200 mile limit in this area in response to various questions posed the Fisheries Commission of NAFO. Results of seasonal research surveys conducted in 1985 and early 1986 were invaluable in this regard. A special working group on the assessment of cod in Divisions 2J3KL was held in conjunction with the NAFO Scientific Council Meeting in June. 1986, to which the Gadoids Section made a major contribution.

o The cod catches in the inshore fishery along the southern part of the east coast were again low in 1986 and a special meeting of CAFSAC was convened in November, 1986, to address a number of questions posed by senior managers regarding the reasons for these lower f'",tf''''<><>

o A special cruise was conducted in the area of the "tail" of the Grand Bank and preliminary results in­dicate significant differences in abundance of major species inside and outside the 200 mile limit.

D ConSiderable progress was made on a cod atlas depicting catch and effort information bi-monthly for each stock from data collected by observers on foreign and domestic vessels.

o A significant effort was directed at the problem of parasites in cod, including collection and examination 01 samples from research vessel cruises throughout the area.

PELAGIC FISH, SHELLFISH AND MARINE MAMMALS PROGRAM

The objective of PSMM is to provide reliable real-time biological advice to national and international fisheries managers on the management of important pelagic (herring, capelin, mackerel) shellfish (lobster, scallop, shrimp, crab, squid) and marine mammal (harp and hooded seals, whales) in the Newfoundland­Labrador area.

In fulfilling this mandate, Program researchers rely primarily on two data sources. Research vessel surveys provide data on the distribution and abundance of various species and on various physical and biological parameters. Biological data from the commercial fishery provide data on age-specific annual removals, as well as estimates of the relative abundance of various stocks from year to year based on commercial catch rates.

The following are highlights of the 1986 PSMM Program.

D Assessments of 17 stocks subject to quota regulations were conducted for advice on total allowable catch. o Twenty-five cruises with research vessels were conducted; pelagic acoustic (8), crab (5), herring and

capelin larvae (4), scallops (3), squid (2), capelin tagging (2) and shrimp (1). In addition, aerial (helicopter) methodology surveys 01 hooded seals were undertaken in the Magdelan Islands area. Fixed wing air­craft surveys were also made of capelin in inshore areas. Researchers also undertook community of seals along the Labrador coasts aboard fisheries patrol vessels.

o A pilot acoustic survey, using a BIOSONICS dual-beam hydroacoustic system, was successfully com­pleted in October, 1986, along eastern Newfoundland; integrated counts and strength estimates were derived for individual herring schools. Application of this approach to future acoustic surveys for herring will allow more accurate and efficiently derived estimates of absolute abundance.

o Analysis of the recruitment dynamiCS of the major spring-spawning herring stocks in the Northwest Atlantic demonstrated that environmental parameters were the major determinants of recruitment variability. Removal of the environmental variability revealed generic dome-shaped stock-recruit curves which were characterized by a high degree of compensatory denSity-dependence in recruitment.

o The ability to process ascoustic data onboard ship has resulted in having available for the first time current estimates of recruitment and biomass of capelin. In past years the of the previous year's su rveys had to be projected ahead two years.

o The utility of aerials surveys as a method of estimating inshore abundance of spawning capelin was validated through com parisians with two independent sources of abundance.

o A time-series (1976-86) of estimates of population fecundity, along with an index of larvellobster abun­been completed and will provide a valuble insight into the stock-recruit dynamics of lobster.

o Significant additions to the data base on snow crab growth-per-molt were made in 1986 and a paper has been submitted describing the growth dynamics of snow crab.

o Growth patterns of shrimp off northern Newfoundland-southern Labrador were described for the first time and the results were published in the primary literature.

o Data from the Gulf Stream and Grand Banks surveys enabled the successful prediction of low inshore squid abundance in 1986.

o Reproductive rates of male harp seals were described for the first time since 1950 from samples col­lected off the 'Front' during the early 1980's.

o A comprehensive research proposal for a jOint aerial census of harp and hooded seals in the 'Front', Gulf and Davis Strait areas was developed and submitted for funding evaluation.

FRESHW.l(rER AND ANADROMOUS FISH PROGRAM

The Freshwater and Anadromous Fish Program biological advice to regional, national and inter­national fisheries managers on commercially and recreationally important and potentially important freshwater and anadromous fishes in the Newfoundland Region. This advice relates not only to stocks originating in Newfoundland-Labrador lakes and but also to Atlantic salmon originating in the rivers of other pro­vinces and caught in commerical fisheres in Newfoundland and at West Greenland. It is aimed at suppor­ting management of these resources to provide maximum social and economic benefits to Canada.

Research efforts and in 1986 are listed below.

o Fish monitoring and juvenile studies have taken placen on Northeast and Freshwater brooks for three years. Natural deposition in Northeast Brook (Trepassey) is about 600 eggsl100m2 . This is more than twice the target level currently recommended by CAFSAC as the optimum egg deposition.

o A research program was initiated to assess the Conne River salmon stock and evaluate the native food fishery. The research involved monitoring the upstream migration of Atlantic salmon, determining the stock composition of salmon caught in the food fishery and determining the utilization of the lakes by salmon parr. There were about 7,900 salmon counted upstream in Conne River. All lakes surveyed which were accessible to sea-run salmon were inhabited by anadromous salon parr. It is estimated that about 45 per cent of the juvenile salmon production from Conne River comes from the The Native Band Council was very cooperative in all aspects of our research and provided assistance with the field work.

o Salmon were enumerated at fish counting facilities on eight rivers, biological data were collected from salmon caught in the recreational fishery on these rivers, and catch-effort data were obtained from 65 commercial fishermen in Notre Dame Bay.

o The restrictions on the commercial fisheries in 1984 and 1985 to have resulted in a decrease in the proportion of the salmon population which is caught in the commercial fisheries and an increase in the proportion which enter Newfoundland rivers. The results of tagging studies from 1940 to 1976 an interception of mainland and origin salmon in Newfoundland and Labrador fisheries of about per cent during the quarter-century period. A tagging study that about 80 per cent of the salmon exploited in the food fishery in the Conne River estuary are of Conne River origin. (Virtually all the salmon caught in the trap net used in the food fishery were meshed in the walls of the trap or in the leader.)

o The quota of 900 t at West Greenland in 1986 was reached and the catch rates were reported to be high. There is a significant relationship between catches at Greenland and homewater returns of MSW (multi-sea-winter) salmon in the following year. This suggests that the return of MSW salmon to Canada in 1987 should be equal to or better than that of 1986. There is preliminary evidence from protein analysis that the proportion of Canadian origin salmon at Greenland in 1986 is in excess of 50 per cent.

o obtained from sampling of Arctic charr in 1985 were utilized in adviSing on for six subareas (three stock complexes) in the Nain area in 1986. Salinity tolerance experiments were continued with juvenile Arctic charr at NAFC. (Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Centre). Preliminary results indicate that charr under 22 cm (fork length) and 20 months old cannot tolerate full-strength sea water for periods in excess of 14 Electrophoretic analysis has indicated that hybridization of Arctic charr and brook trout has occurred in Fraser River, Labrador.

in the Experimental Ponds Area has provided a new technique to predict the abundance of adult salmon returning to their river two fishing seasons in advance. The salmonid carrying capacity of two Newfoundland lakes of average water quality was shown to be relatively constant over a long­term period. The constancy of the average annual abundance of zooplankton, benthic invertebrates, and salmon ids in the Experimental Ponds Area Indicates that the area offers opportunity for whole or partial lake experimentation or for comparison with altered A forest fire in part

of the Experimental Ponds Area has provided the opportunity to assess, for the first time, the effects .. of forest fires on salmonid communities with a near-optimal design.

o An experiment to estimate the role of precocious Atlantic salmon parr in fertilizing eggs has been car­ried out. It was found that as the number of mature male parr increased at the spawning site, there was an increase in the number of eggs fertilized by the parr up to 25 per cent of eggs deposited. However with each successive redd made by a female salmon there was a decrease in the proportion of fertilized.

o The second stage of a 1985 DFO/CEIC-LEAD salmonid enhancement program is nearing completion. Approximately $900,000 of incremental funding was gained for the Exploits River and Nova River Atlantic salmon colonization projects. On the Exploits River the major milestones were: completion of the construction of the Noel Paul's Brook inCUbation facility; the first large-scale fry stocking of the Up­per Exploits watershed; 50-60 per cent construction on the Red Indian Lake passage. The second year of stocking of adult Atlantic salmon in the Terra Nova River upstream of Molyguajeck Falls was suc­cessfully completed.

o An additional $2500 was provided by CEIC to support training and job development proposals on the Black Brook and St. Mary's Bay North salmon enhancement projects. The provincial department of Rural, Agriculture and Northern Development, the provincial Department of Fisheries and the National Research Council provided a further $100,000 to support research and training on the St. Patricks, Halls Bay salmon kelt aquaculture project.

o Scientific reviews were undertaken of aquaculture proposals pertaining to sources of wild salmon brood stocks for the Bay D'Espoir hatchery and to sources of wild smolts for sea-pen rearing experiments. Technical support was provided for collection of brood stock from Grey River for the Bay D'Espoir hatchery.

o Atlantic salmon kelt aquaculture experiments at St. Pat ricks, Halls Bay revealed that kelt can be reared using simple rearing techniques when marine temperatures are greater than 10°C. A small number of reconditioned kelt produced eggs which are being incubated to evaluate the egg viability.

o upgrading of juvenile salmon rearing facilities at the Indian River Research Station resulted in more cost-effective rearing of 90-day fingerlings.

o The first year of a two-year salmon enhancement feasibility study on Little River was completed by the Conne River Indian Band.

o Construction of Rocky River fishway was completed in 1986. except for installation of grating. o The first test run of the expanded Noel Paul's Brook Incubation Facility resulted in a production of 2.3

million fry for an egg-to-fry survival rate of nearly 82 percent. This fry production allowed stocking of several major tributaries for the first time within the Upper watershed.

o mig{ations in 1986 indicate continuing good survival from experimental juvenile salmon stocking. The first year of smolt migration from the 1984 stocking of Wolverine Pond with swim-up fry (age two smolt) indicates 7.6 per cent survival to this and an average weight of 32 g. Smolt migration from Upper Micmac (1982 and 1983 classes) totalled 3232. Although age determinations are not com­pleted, average weight of the two year classes combined was 32.4 g. The Traverse Pond run of 75 fish was four smolt (1982 fall fingerlings) with an weight of 83.8 g. Mean survival from time of release to smoltification for these smolt migrations was 7.3 per cent. Age two smolts reared in a lake cage and subsequently reared in a marine cage increased in weight from an average of 25 g to 500 g during the 146-day experiment.

o Egg-to-fry survival rates at the new Black Brook incubator improved only marginally over 1985 (Le., 30% in 1986 vs 250/0 in 1985) and remained below the 1984 test sequence of 75 per cent. Very low water temperature was noted in the water supply during early stages of egg development. Water quality was also suspect during incubation in relation to higher than normal iron concentration. Remedial measures have been taken towards stabilizing critical water incubation temperature, improving water filtration systems and undertaking frequent fungiCide treatment of the eggs.

o Engineering staff completed 50 per cent construction of the Red Indian Dam Fishway; completed ex­pansion of Noel Paul's Incubation Facility; completed design and reconstruction of Rocky River fishway; completed functional design of the fishway now under construction on Rennies Mill River, Quidi Vidi Gut.

EXPERIMENTAL ECOLOGY PROGRAM

Experimental Ecology, unlike other Programs within the Branch, is not strucutred along species lines but functions rather as a multi-disciplinary organization for a number of diverse activities:

a) other than along species lines b) fish habitat research and assessment c) support services (computing, electronics, physical ocenography, scientific records, vessels, photography,

drafting,

The following represent the most significant accomplishments within the Program during 1986:

7

C Program staff produced 18 primary publications in the fields of toxicology, fisheries ecology, oceanography, acid precipitation, ecological modelling and carbohydrate chemistry. Habitat assessment participated in seven Environmental Impact Assessments conducted under the provincial government's Environmental Assessment Act A special publication outlining construction guidelines and design criteria for fish habitat-compatible resources was produced. Considerable data were generated to support the hypothesis that widespread environmental concerns over the use of oil-based drilling muds could be allayed by substituting low-aromatic mineral oils for diesel or oils. It established that tainting of lobster was evident following short-term exposure to low levels of diesel oiL The taint was evident after a few days exposure, and depuration was evident at day 21 following the exposure.

o A semi-synthetic antigen to Aeromonas salmonicida (a common bacterial pathogen), with Chick Serum Albumin as the protein carrier, was successfully prepared.

o Comprehensive analyses of the nature of ocean climate in our area were conducted as part of the cod­capelin working group deliberations and in an examination of 2J3KL cod migrations.

o Computer and software advances further XBT and data processing and allowed genera­tion of improved data products, on a timely basis, for Branch clients.

[J The mini CTD system was used successfully on 30 consecutive groundfish trawl sets and an initial evalua­tion that the could be used operationally. thereby improving our ocean climate data base considerably.

o Program staff successfully field tested the analogue subsystem of the new modified dual beam hydroacoustic data acquisition The first successful data sets are expected in 1987.

o Acquisition of a VAX 111785 mini computer established an in-house computing capability for the Branch. [J Optimum utilization of the Branch's research aquaria facilities was realized during the year; this was

due in no small measure to the effective organization and management of the facilities by the newly apPOinted aquaria technician.

REGIONAL LIBRARY

The Regional Library supports all program and branches of the Department of and Oceans, Newfoundland Region, asd well as the Environmental Protection Service, Newfoundland Region, by mak­ing available to their staff information contained in relevant literature which covers a variety of subjects and is written in several languages. The Regional Library also services members of the general public by retrieving material either for use in the library or for one-week loan.

During 1986 the Library loaned 4,033 items, shelved 23,626, kardexed 13,703 issues and processed 1,185 interlibrary loan outgoing and filled a03 incoming requests.

A total of 526 monographs, reports or theses were received during 1986; the total number of monographic items in the collection is 9,202 items. Catalogue card sets were received for 557 items, 182 Newfoundlandia records and 1,347 records for CAFSAC, NAFO & ICES documents. Scandinavian and British government documents were input into the WAVES database.

The Deposit of DFO (Nfld. Region) Publications in Departmental Libraries policy was ratified in 1986. In May, 1986, as a result of a budget shortfall, 100 periodical subscriptions were not renewed for the 1987

subscription year. A Bibliography of Management Books in the Regional Library, Newfoundland Region was prepared with

the assistance of the Training Officer. Personnel, and distributed to departmental staff in October, 1986.

B

Fisheries nd Habitat anagement Branch 1986, certain reorganization initiatives were implemented within the Department of

Oceans to reflect changing priorities in fisheries management and development, and to enhance efficient delivery of Fisheries and Oceans programs.

These initiatives included the addition of a Technology Transfer and Development Division to the Fisheries and Habitat Management Branch (formerly The Fisheries Operations Branch) and the strengthening of The

Habitat Division with additional staff allotments. Another of The Branch's sectors The Fish Inspection Division, was made a separate Branch in a department-wide move to strengthen Fisheries and Oceans in­spection activities across Canada.

The Fisheries and Habitat Management Branch now comprises four divisions. The largest of these is Resource Management with staff at Regional Office in John's and at Area/District Offices located in Goose Bay, Grand Falls, Grand Bank and John's. This Division fishery management plans, fishermen and fishing and enforces various fisheries related Acts and Regulations in offshore, in­shore and inland waters.

Another Division, the Fishing Vessel Insurance Program, provides insurance to fishing vessel owners in Newfoundland and Labrador.

The Technology Transfer and Development Division directs its efforts toward improving the viability of the region's fishery, focusing primarily on cost reduction methods, productivity improvement and resources/vessel utilization and enhancement.

Finally, the Habitat Division is for and enhancing fish habitat in both marine and freshwater environments.

RESOURCE MANAGEMENT DIVISION

The Resource Management Division consists of two sections - The Allocations and Licencing Section and the Enforcement Section.

The Allocations and Licencing Section is responsible for the management of all domestic and foreign

fisheries which come under the jurisdiction of the Newfoundland Region. Management plans are developed for all major fisheries to ensure proper utilization and conservation of the fishery resources, by ensuring that the maximum benefits accrue to Canada from the exploitation of the resources and that all sectors of the industry are given the opportunity to realize an adequate return on their investment. The licencing of all vessels, both domestic and foreign, and fishermen eligible to participate in the various fisheries, pro­vides both a control mechanism for numbers of people and amounts of gear prosecuting specific fisheries and a data base of information which is for the management of the fisheries.

The Enforcement Section is responsible for the enforcement of fisheries Acts and Regulations pursuant to both domestic and foreign fisheries within Canadian waters. In addition, the section is also responsible for carrying out surveillance on behalf of under the NAFO Joint Enforcement in the NAFO Regulatory Area. This involves enforcement-related activities in prime fishing areas such as the 'Nose' and 'Tail' of the Grand Banks and the Flemish Cap, which are beyond Canadian jurisdiction. In addition, the Enforcement Section is responsible for the Fisheries Observer Program. This involves placing trained observers onboard selected domestic and foreign vessels operating in waters to ensure compliance with applicable fisheries Acts and Regulations, and to conduct various scientific investigations. In recent years, Canada has reached agreements with a number of foreign nations allowing the Enforcement Section to place observers onboard foreign vessels beyond Canadian waters under the NAFO Scientific Observer Scheme. As the name implies, is a strictly scientifically-oriented program as opposed to the dual enforcemenUscientific program in Canadian waters.

Allocations and

The development of annual fishing plans requires extensive consultation between the Department of Fisheries and Oceans and all interest groups involved in the fishing In 1986, as in previous years, consultations between the department and all interest groups (i.e fishermen, provincial government represen­tatives, Fishermen's Union and processors) took place through the forum of Advisory Committees. The primary function of these committees is to provide advice to the department regarding the management of the fisheries. In the Newfoundland Region, AdviSOry Committees were active for crab, lobster, herring, capelin, mackerel and seals, and groundfish sector.

Groundfish

Offshore vessels landed approximately 201 000 t of groundfish in the Newfoundland Region during 1986, compared to 187 000 t in 1985. Cod landings increased to 122 000 t in 1986 from 97 000 t in 1985, while landings of flounders Plaice, Yellowtail and Witch) decreased to 51 000 t in 1986 from 56 000 t in 1985.

The offshore vessel owners in Atlantic Canada continued to operate under the Enterprise Allocation Pro­gram first introduced in 1982. Consultations continued with the vessel owners and the provincial govern­ment during 1986 to further refine and improve the program.

Inshore catches of cod totalled approximately 98 000 t in 1986, compared to 105 000 t in 1985. Catches in NAFO Divisions 2J3KI accounted for 73 000 t of the 1986 total, with the remaining 25 000 t being taken in NAFO Sub-division 3Ps. In comparison to the previous year, inshore catches in 2J3KL decreased by ap­proximately 8000 t, with the 3L area, particularly the southern shore of the Avalon Peninsula, accounting for the part of this decrease. Catches along the south coast (NAFO sub division 3Ps) 1986 were approximately the same as in 1985.

Direct sales of fish by both fishermen and local processors to foreign vessels decreased dramatically in 1986 as there were no direct sales of cod in either Newfoundland or Labrador because of low landings, strong market demands and the participation of Canadian vessels in a collection system along the Labrador coast. Two East German (GDR) and one USSR vessel 2048 t of mackerel and 488 t of herring in the White Bay/Notre Dame Bay area through an over-the-side sales agreement.

A total of 25 100 t of groundfish were allocated to the Resource Short Plant Program (RSPP) under the 1986 Atlantic Groundfish Management Plan. This included 11 000 t of cod, 6000 t of redfish, 8000 t of turbot

100 t of silver hake. In August of 1986 a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans and Newfound Resources Limited, a consortium of Newfoundland resource short plants, which gives Newfound Resources management responsibility for the program. During 1986 approx­imately 5000 t of cod and 2200 t of redfish were landed under the program for distribution to eligible plants in the Newfoundland Region.

Pelagic and Anadromous

Capelin: The 1986 Capelin Management Plan was developed to reflect the available market for capelin products. As in previous years, the primary market in 1986 was for whole frozen female capelin for Japan. The market for Canadian capelin was extremely strong due to the failure of the Norwegian capelin fishery.

A total of 76 000 t were allocated by bay and gear type within the Region. Landings were 65 500 t, the highest on record, and were valued at $18.9 million. These landings generated 31 000 t of whole frozen female capelin production plus another 1000 t of assorted products such as zoo food and bait.

Capelin abundance was good in all areas with the timing of the inshore migration returning to normal. Herring: In 1986 the east and southeast coasts of Newfoundland (Cape Bauld to Pass Island) re-opened

to full-scale commercial herring fishing. A total of 13 300 t were allocated in the Region. However, due to poor market conditions only 5700 t were landed. The fishery concentrated in Notre Dame Bay and Bonavista Bay with limited landings being recorded in all other areas. The re-opening of the fishery was possible due to the recruitment of the strong 1982 year-class. This year-class should be able to support the fishery for the next several years. The extent of the fishery will, however, depend upon the ability of the industry to revitalize old markets and develop new markets.

Atlantic Salmon: As with the 1984 and 1985 plans, the 1986 Atlantic Salmon Management Plan con­tinued restrictions on the commercial and recreational fisheries aimed at promoting long-term stock recovery. The commercial fishing season was further reduced, with the season closing on October 15 compared to the previous closing date of December 31. The opening date remained at June 5. The commercial landings were 1050 t, up from the 1985 level of 810 t. The increase in landings occurred primarily in the areas north of Cape including Labrador. A tagging program was introduced into the commercial fishery but was not fully implemented. The recreational catch declined to 26,860 fish in 1986 from 28,730 fish in 1985.

Arctic Char: Arctic char landings declined to 130 t in 1986 from 160 t in 1985. The decline in 1986 is related to reduced effort in the fishery. Landings in recent years are below historic annual levels.

Bluefln Tuna: The Canadian bluefin tuna quota remained unchanged at 1521 fish. Of this number 50 fish were allocated to Newfoundland for the rod and reel fishery. Five fish were landed in 1986, one more in 1985.

Atlantic Mackerel: The limited availability of markets and generally low prices continued to restrain the mackerel fishery. Total landings for 1986 were 11 900 t, down from the 1985 catch of 15 300 1. As in 1985 the fishery was concentrated in the White Bay-Green Bay area. In addition to the traditional food and bait markets, mackerel was sold through an over-the-side sales program and as of the USSR sales agreement.

Shellfish and Marine Mammals

Crab: In 1986 there were 65 vessels licenced to fish crab in the Newfoundland Region using 800 traps each. Thirty-five-of these vessels were eligible to fish from Cape St-Mary's to Cape Freels (NAFO Division 3L). 27 vessels were licenced to fish from Cape Freels to Cape Bauld (NAFO Division 31<) and the remaining three vessels held an authorized overlap which permitted them to fish Division 3K Bonavista Bay, which is within Division 3L. Five vessels from Division 3L were permitted to fish in Division 2J on an experimental

during 1986. In addition to the vessesls mentioned above, there were 251 licences issued for the supplementary crab

fishery, which entitled the holders to use a maximum of 150 traps each and to operate for a shorter season than those involved in the full-time crab fiShery.

The supplementary crab fishery was active in Divisions 2J, 3K and 3Ps. In Division 2J only one enterprise was active in 1986, while in Division 3K a total of 169 vessels were licenced to partiCipate in this fishery. In Division 3Ps, 81 enterprises were licenced for the supplementary crab fishery. There was no tary fishery in Division 3L due to the depressed condition of the crab stocks in this area.

1986 was the first year quotas were introduced in the Newfoundland crab fishery. Separate quotas were established for the full-time and supplementary fisheries in the various NAFO Divisions. The quotas and catches for 1986 were as follows:

Table 2.1: Crab quotas and .....T ........... Newfoundland Region, 1986 Division Quota Catch 2J FUll-time 725 t 488 t

Supplementary 200 t 27 t

3K 3000 t 2702 t Supplementary 1000 t 1447 t

3L Full-time 3300 t 3478 t

3Ps Supplementary 600 t 616 t

8825t 8757t

lobster: During 1986 there were 3154 fishermen licenced to harvest lobster within the Newfoundland Region. Landings for the Region in 1986 totalled 1301.6 t. This to 1519 tin 1985 and 1374.9 tin 1984. The landed values for the same years were $8.1 million, million and million.

Scallop: There was a total of 327 inshore vessels (under 19.8 m LOA) licenced to fish scallop in the N.ew­foundland Region during 1986. These vessels recorded landings of 381 t of round weight scallops with a landed value of $373,000.

The Maritime-based offshqre fleet fished St. Pierre Bank in harvesting approximately 147 t of scallop far in excess of 45 t harvested from that area in 1985.

Northern Shrimp: The 1986 Northern Shrimp Management Plan provided for a 3400 t quota in Hopedale 1000 t in Cartwright Channel, 85{) t in Hawke Channel, 6120 t in Davis Strait, 500 t in Division

2G, 1200 t in Division 3K, 100 t in Unqava Bay and 750 t in Eastern Hudson Strait. Catches in the Hopedale Channel were 3483 t in 1986, substantially higher than the 1429 t harvested

from this area in 1985. Catches in the Davis were 2995 t in 1986, compared to 3071 t harvested in 1985. The Hopedale Channel and Davis were the only areas fished in 1985. in 1986,1402 t were

havested in the Cartwright Channel, 99 t were caught in Ungava Bay and 377 t were caught in the Eastern Hudson Strait.

The total Northern Shrimp landings were 8357 tin 1986 compared to 4500 tin 1985 and 3281 tin 1984. In 1986 the total allowable catch (TAC) of harp seals within jurisdiction was the same

as the 1985 TAC - 186,000. In the Front Zone, Canadian large vessels were allocated a quota of 57,000 harps while the landsmen quota was 42,450. In the Gulf Zone, the large vessels were allocated 20,000 harps while the landsmen quota was 32,550. There were 10,000 harps reserved for the Arctic and Labrador (North of

Charles) hunt and harps were reserved for future allocation. TAC for hooded seals was set at with the Canadian share 2,340 while the remaining

1,160 were allocated to the hunt in Greenland waters. There was no large vessel hunt in 1986. Landings for the Newfoundland region only {Le. the Front

and in 1986 were 19,544 harps, 30 hooded and 1,100 other seals for an overall harvest of There were sealing licences issued and 44 longliner licences.

The Atlantic Squid Management Plan provided a TAC of 150 000 t, with 105 750 t allocated to and 44250 t provided to countries. The biological advice for 1986 indicated a low inshore abundance of squid. Total inshore landings for the Newfoundland Region was extremely low at 400 t in 1986, compared to earlier years of moderate inshore abundance when 30 000-40 000 t were landed. In years of high inshore abundance, in excess of 85 000 t have been landed.

Fisheries

In 1986 the Department of Fisheries and Oceans was involved in a number of bilateral meetings with foreign fishing including Japan, the USSR, East Germany, Poland and France. Canada

and France held a series of discussions concerning the boundary dispute around S1. Pierre and Miquelon and possible cod allocations in the Gulf after 1986, since Metropolitan fishing vessels were not allowed to fish in the Gulf after May 1986, in accordance with the 1972 Treaty. An exploratory meeting was also held with Greenland to common fisheries interests for both

The also participated in government-industry consultations in which advice was sought from industry on the establishment of annual allocations to Canada's bilateral partners.

In 1986 approximately 210 000 t of groundfish was allocated by Canada to foreign countries to fish inside the 200-mile limit. This represents approximately 18 per cent of the total allocations inside the zone. The majority of these allocations, 143 000 t, were from stocks which are not normally fished by Canadian VHli'SHIS.

such as silver hake, and argentine, or stocks which are under-exploited by Canadians, such as turbot in northern waters. The remaining allocations were from non-surplus stocks and were made under bilateral agreements or treaty. Foreign countries took approximately 135 000 t of groundfish in 1986 from these allocations.

Licencing

The Licencing Program serves as a control mechanism in the management of fisheries resources. It pro­vides fisheries managers with a sound data base for identification of the number of fishermen, vessels, species fished, and gear types used in the commercial fishery.

In 1986 the domestic system in the Newfoundland Region 20,443 personal commercial fishing licences (10,070 full-time and 10,373 part-time); 12,331 vessel registrations; and 16,500 species fishery licences for various species. Under the Categorization Program, 5630 first level appeals were registered by part-time fishermen, of which 277 were upgraded to full-time; 73 second level appeals were registered and 23 of these were upgraded.

A new Atlantic Fisheries Licence Appeal Board was announced on July 7,1986. This Board was established to hear appeals from fishermen who are dissastisfied with departmental licencing decisions and also to hear appeals which were rejected by area and Regional committees. The Board has 23 cases to date in the Newfoundland Region.

A Discussion Paper on the Commercial Fisheries Licencing Policy for Eastern Canada was released in 1986, and consultations with the industry on this paper took place during the summer and fall. The results

of the consultations have been tabulated and are currently under review within the department. It is an­ticipated that a new document on policy the results of these consultations will be released during 1987.

In 1986, the foreign licenCing system in the Newfoundland Region licenced 109 vessels to operate within 200 mile limit. In addition, 121 amendments were issued for these vessels. Licences were issued

to vessels from Denmark, Faroe Islands, France, Federal Republic of Germany, German Democratic Republic, Germany), Japan, Morocco, Portugal, Norway, United Kingdom, USSR and the United States of America.

Section

Offshore Surveillance

During 1986, the Department of Fisheries and Oceans utilized two departmental patrol vessels, the CAPE ROGER and the LEONARD J. COWLEY, and Department of National Defence vessels to conduct offshore surface patrols within Canadian and NAFO waters off the Newfoundland Region.

In addition to surface patrols, the Department utilized of National Defence Tracker and Aurora airacraft to carry out surveillance.

A total of 540 vessel patrol days were accomplished in 1986, with 163 of that total directed towards NAFO patrols on the Tail and Nose of the Banks and on the Flemish Cap. Aircraft achieved 1,887 hours of surveillance, during which vessel sightings were registered.

Table 2.2 and Air Surveillance Activity, Newfoundland Region, 1986

Sea Days DFO Vessels . . .. .................... " .... ..... . .................. . 489.6 DND Vessels . .. ... ....... ... ... .................... ... ....... ... __...",.=..;;:.;..,:­

Total ....... , ................................ " ..................... .

Flying Hours

Tracker. . . .. . .............. , ..... , ................... ' ..... , .......... . 1,482.5 Aurora ... , .. "., ,..... . .. ,.,', ..... ,.,.,.. ,..... ,...... .... . ..... _---;~== Total .............. , .. '" . . .... ,. , ... , .. , ..

Offshore surveillance officers completed 260 inspections at sea and 96 in port. As a result of these in­spections. in conjunction with aerial and observer surveillance, a total of 39 charges were laid foreign and domestic fishing masters. These charges involved 21 that were related to foreign masters conducting unauthorized fishing operations within Canadian fisheries waters. Twenty-five warnings were issued to vessel masters inside the 200 mile limit for minor infractions of the various regulations. Surveillance patrols in NAFO waters resulted in 31 citations being issued to foreign masters for infractions against NAFO Regulations.

Table 2.3: Offshore Fishing Vessel Inspections, Newfoundland Region, 1986

Canadian Foreign Total

Inside 200 Miles

39

Outside 200 Miles

4 In port

2 Total

45

The 39 laid had resulted in nine two dismissals and 30 pending trial at year end. One of the charges dismissed was relaid and is also pending trial and the Crown has appealed the judge's decision to dismiss. Eight of the convictions realized total fines of $128,000 and forfeitures of $20,000. Senten­Cing had yet to be down on one of the convictions at year end, with the defence appealing the conviction.

Observer Program

In 1986 observers from the Newfoundland Region completed 261 trips, totalling 4824 sea days onboard foreign and domestic vessels operating within Canada's 200 nautical mile fishing limit. In addition to con-

inside the fishing zone, a total of 163 observer sea were onboard foreign vessels fishing NAFO Regulatory Area under the NAFO Scientific

The majority of the observer sea (2,508) were directed towards foreign vessels fishing national alloca­tions inside the zone. Another 452 sea were spent on foreign vessels operating under special

within Canadian waters Direct Resource Short Plant A total of 1,844 observer sea days were spent on the coverage of Newfoundland-based domestic vessels.

Coastal and Inland

The Enforcement Section continued with its program of protecting the coastal and inland fisheries in 1986. The contract guardian program which was initiated in 1983 to patrol some of the Inland waters was again utilized in 1986. This program provided 39 river guardians, with 13 assigned to each Area Office. The Report-A-Poacher Program, which has been an effective tool for protection purposes, received 136 calls in 1986. These calls resulted in the detection of 17 violations with 11 charges being laid.

With the increased use of the warning ticket which was implemented in 1985, the number of detected violations increased in 1986. Sentences for violations that were prosecuted included fines that ranged from $10 to $1 and several jail sentences without the option of a fine.

FISHERIES TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER AND DEVELOPMENT DIVISION

Technology Transfer and Development is essentially the former Development and Analysis Division of the former Fisheries Development Branch. In reorganization initiatives implemented during 1986, the Division was transferred to the Fisheries and Habitat Management Branch (formerly The Fisheries Operations Branch).

The role of the division is to devise and implement programs and projects to identify and remove impediments to further developments of the commercial fishing industry.

In 1986 development initiatives focused on Resource Enhancement and Utilization, Quality Improvement, Cost Reduction in and Processing, and Information Transfer. projects were carried out which were developed in direct response to industry problems and opportunities which arose during the year.

Brief project summaries which outline project objectives and results are presented in this report. Persons requiring more detailed information on these are encouraged to contact:

Technology Transfer and Development Division Fisheries and Habitat Management Branch

Box 5667 of Fisheries and Oceans

St. John's, Nfld. A1C 5X1

Resource Enhancement and Utilization

Through resource enhancement and utilization initiatives it is possible to increase the value and market­ability of presently viewed as having limited commercial value. This can be achieved by implemen­ting new processes and improved concepts. It is also possible through aquaculture to increase the availability of high value species such as salmon and shellfish. Successful developments in these areas can lead to increased earnings and opportunities for fishermen and processors.

Aquaculture Development

The rapid growth of an interest in mussel farming in the few years has generated a need for suitable infrastructure and equipment to accommodate mussel production. This year Fisheries Development in cooperation with the Newfoundland Department of Fisheries a complete production line for pro­cessing fresh and marinated products. The line includes a debyssing machine for cleaning the mussels and removal of byssus, a cooker whith mechanical loading and unloading, a meat extraction unit to separate the meats from the shells and a container filler and sealer for packaging cooked meats and marinade ingre­dients. With the declumperlsize which was previously installed, the line will be capable of producing large volumes of finished products more efficiently. The complete line will be evaluated at the Atlantic Ocean Farms plant at Fortune Harbour, and will provide a much needed insight into the economics and logistics of producing cultured mussels and mussel products in Newfoundland.

Surimi Development

The Atlantic Canada Surimi Research and Development program continued to function in 1986. R<:>nr"'Q.<:>n.

ting DFO's three Atlantic and Quebec Region, this group played a lead role in initiating and co· ordinating surimi research development thrusts in Atlantic Canada.

14

In the Newfoundland Region, initiatives were aimed at the utilization of fish plant by-products, primarily groundfish frames, and under utilized pelagics and groundfish species. Investigations into the suitability of various groundfish species held under varied handling and holding conditions to produce surimi were also undertaken. These included the assessment of surimi produced from trap cod, male capelin and red­fish in experiments conducted at the Newfoundland Institute of Fisheries and Marine Technology utilizing the Institute's surimi pilot line.

Memorial University was contracted to develop natural flavourants for use in surimi products. This effort was very successful with the development of a natural crab flavour ingredient obtained from crab process­ing waste water. This development has generated significant interest from companies seeking to commer­cialize this development.

A private consulting company conducted a series of studies and tests to identify and qualify production controls aimed at improving the surimi production process in terms of yields, costs and end product quality.

Capelin Development

The Division in cooperation with a local processor conducted a small scale production of breaded (male) capelin products which will be assessed by consumers at retail outlets in St. John's and elsewhere. A series of breaded products produced from various preparation techniques will be undertaken to assess optimum preparation procedures, which will be reflected by consumer acceptance patterns.

Other areas being investigated that appear to have a good potential for male capelin include surimi, meal, oil and aquaculture feed; this work will be continued in 1987.

Development of Underutilized Species

In response to interest by industry the Divison conducted prelimianary investigations into the commercial potential of whelks, periwinkles and sea urchins. These species enjoy good markets in Europe and Japan and support significant fisheries in these and other countries.

An evaluation of the periwinkle resource in areas around Fortune, Placentia, St. Mary's, Bonavista and Notre Dame bays indicated that some areas might support a commercial fishery. Harvest techniques, transpor­tation and marketing of these species were not assessed but could be addressed in the future with support from industry. A report on this work is available at the Division office.

Based on information obtained from the whelk fishery in Quebec pertaining to catch rates, markets and economics, the Division initiated small scale fishing trials in eastern Newfoundland to determine if pot fishing for whelks was feasible. Approximately 20 inshore small boat fishermen were provided with six to ten whelk pots to identify locations where whelks could be commercially harvested. Results have been very encourag­ing with up to 70 Ibs./pot harvested in some of the areas fished. Interest among fishermen and processors is extremely high and will be encouraged by continued work in this area next year.

An abundance of sea urchins in waters around Newfoundland has long raised questions as to the com­mercial potential of this species. Some work on the harvesting, processing and market potential has been conducted in the past. Recent increased prices in the Japanese marketplace combined with a decline in resource availability there has regenerated private and government interest in this species. Division person­nel provided samples of urchins for roe extraction and evaluations by a qualified Japanese technician . A sample of the roe will be shipped to Japan in early spring for assessment. However, environmental condi­tions and the maturity cycle of the sea urchin continue to impede this development.

Quality Improvement

Improved quality in fish and fish products has long been a major objective of the Newfoundland fishing industry. Major accomplishments in recent years have been due in large part to a greater sense of quality awareness among fishing crews and improvement in the equipment they now use. Onboard boxing initiatives and fish handling procedures on Fishery Products International and National Sea Products trawlers have figured highly in improving the quality of fish landed by these vessels. Inshore fishermen have also accepted the quality challenge and have made a signficant contribution to improving quality.

The Contrawl System

In 1986 the Division continued to test and evaluate the Contrawl System onboard FPI's trawler, the ATLANTIC MARGARET. This mechanical container transport and storage system for iced fish underwent severe testing and evaluation by DFO and industry. Improvements and modifications implemented during the period resulted in a system capable of withstanding rigorous at-sea conditions. The efficient mechanical movment of con­tainers (three simultaneously - 1500 Ibs. iced fish capacity) from the fishold up to the factory deck for loading with fish and ice, and their return to the hold, combined with an efficient dishcarge system were the primary attributes of the Contrawl System .

Commercial sea trials proved that the concept works and can contribute to improving the handling and <::1.fnr::t(1Io:::. of fish at sea and at It also had a positive impact on the quality of fish landed when compared to traditional penned storage methods. Industry and government are currently reviewing the system and information collected during the 19 trips on which the system was used and are considering its role relative to trawlers that will come on stream over the next few

Onboard Handling System Analysis - Inshore Vessels

For the past four years the Branch has undertaken a number of projects aimed at improving the quality of fish landed by inshore vessels. The projects focused on the development of equipment, systems and handling technqiues to help fishermen meet fish quality requirements under dockside grading programs which were introduced in the early 1980's.

In 1986 a project aimed at determining the impact these systems, etc. had on fish quality was undertaken at a community on Fogo Island. These fishermen operate under a price differentiated dockside grading pro­gram and have done so since 1983. Personnel felt that because of the significant price differentials offered by the company under the program fishermen were to the best of their ability to improve the quality of their catch to take advantage of the increased prices.

Eleven participating crews were provided with manual onboard handling systems (bleeding, gutting, washing) and/or containerized storage Landed and prices received by these vessels were compared to those landed by other community fishermen. In fish from participating vessels was segregated and processed separately. Comparative costs, yields and productivity were monitored and recor­ded to identify impacts of the systems on in-plant production. A report on the project is near completion and will be available at the Division office.

Reduction in H$ilrvii>'c::t

Fish harvesting and processing sectors have been subjected to tremendous pressure during recent years by escalating costs. Fishermen and processors have been forced to overhaul traditional procedures and work towards greater efficiency and effectiveness.

Monitoring S\l~~tii>lrn

For the past two years Fisheries Development has worked closely with Grove Telecommunications Ltd. of St. John's towards the design, testing and evaluation of a 'machine vision' system for identifying and sorting fish by and weights. This system, called the FMS 1000, has been developed through first and prototype phases and now reached the final or "March 3" version.

The system enables fish processors to take maximum advantage of raw material, processing machines and manual production in the plant.

Intensively tested at the National Sea Products plant at Arnold's the machine has the ability to sort fish at a rate of 12,000 Ibs. per 8-hour shift. This technological breakthrough has dramatic potential for the fishing industry. Onboard and in-plant applications can provide the processor with accurate raw material data on which to base production decisions and marketing strategies. The potential to biological data from scientific and commercial operations using the FMS 1000 is an additional advantage of the system. Previewed at Boston in November, 1986, at Fish Expo, the degree of interest from national and interna­tional companies the of the system in industry.

Jelly Flounder Investigations

Division personnel conducted preliminary investigations into the problem of soft flesh (jelly) in flounders. Processors have expressed concern with this problem, which occurs in flounders when a higher level of

is directed towards the production of sexual products (eggs and sperm) than is produced from feeding. An assessment of the actual costs involved in harvesting and processing jellied fish was conducted. The results of the investigation indicated that the degree to which costs could be reduced if jellied flounder could somehow be identified prior to processing are much lower than anticipated.

Nematode Detection and Removal

A major area of interest for 1986 within the Division involved work related to detection and removal of nematodes in fish flesh. A working group comprised of representatives from various DFO Branches has been established to oversee effort in this area. in the past year include:

o A data collection project related to the incidence and abundance of nematodes by NAFO Division o An examination of the migration of Anisakis simp/ex larvae between the viscera and musculature of cod

for varying periods of storage

16

o A review of the use of visible light to create images of nematodes (Anisakis and Phocanema) in cod fish flesh

o The establishment of a data base on the precise distribution and three dimensional orientation of nematodes in cod fish fillets and napes.

For 1987/88, additional groundfish nematode detection projects may include a further examination of visi ­ble light technology, X-ray imaging technology, spectral line technology, x-ray excitation technology and multi­dimensional imaging.

Performance Monitoring: Experimental Fishing Vessels

The two experimental fishing vessels (13.4 m wood and 13.4 m aluminum) built by the Newfoundland In­stitute of Fisheries and Marine Technology in 1985 were not introduced to the fishery as was earlier plann­ed. Both vessels were retained by the Institute, one as a training vessel, the other to be leased to the Cana­dian Saltfish Corporation for use along the Labrador coast. The Institute will be monitoring the sea-keeping ability of both vessels in addition to their operational effectiveness in terms of costs and workability.

Vessel Life Extension - Fibreglassing

A follow-up assessment of the condition of a 15.8 m vessel which was fibreglassed in March 1985 was conducted in the fall of 1986. Core samples of the vessel's planking, including the G.R.P. sheating, were obtained from above and below waterline areas to determine material integrity and general vessel condi­tion . It appears that the fibreglass hull has enhanced the condition of the vessel, providing increased strength and durability.

However some experts in the field of G.R.P. have contrasting viewpoints regarding the addition of fibreglass sheath ing to wooden hulled vessels. Their main concern focuses on deterioration of the wood, and methods used to fasten the sheating to the hull. Consequently D.F.O. personnel will conduct an intensive study of this subject which will identify a course of action for fishing vessel owners considering the use of fibreglass on hulls as a means of extending vessel life.

Fouled Gillnet Investigations

Gillnet fishermen along the northeast coast of Newfoundland are constantly hampered by fouled nets each year. This fouling is caused by an abundance of zoo plankton, commonly called "slub", which adheres to the nets, making the net material visible to the fish. Weight also reduces net buoyancy, often causing the net to sink completely to the bottom .

This year fishermen in the St. Anthony area requested the Division to investigate the problem in the hope that solutions could be developed that would minimize the impact of slub on commercial fishing operations. The Marine Sciences Research Laboratory of Memorial University on behalf of the Division conducted preliminary research in the St. Anthony area noting causes, compositions and areas of high and low occur­rence. A report on these investigations may be obtained from the Division office. (An article entitled "Slub = Science looks at Fishermen's Torment", outlining the findings of this study was published in the March, 1987 issue of the fishermen's news letter "The Fo'c'sle'.)

Technology Transfer Program

The objective of the Technology Transfer Program is to provide technical information to fishermen, pro­cessors, and other government branches. This information takes the form of technical reports, project reports, fishing gear plans, speCial education brochures, video tapes, seminars, workshops, and day to day industry consultation. The 1986 Technology Transfer program emphasized three initiatives: informaton transfer; in­dustry consultation; vessel efficiency (Ener Sea).

Information Transfer

Technical, Industry and Manuscript Reports: A Technology Transfer (Development) Review Group was formed . Terms of reference for the group were formulated in order to maintain consistency with the other Atlantic Regions. The group consisted of the Regional Librarian, a Communications Officer and a Technical Development Officer. This is the first time Fisheries Development, Newfoundland Region has produced reports for the department's National Report Series.

A total of 10 reports were reviewed by the group for final publication.

(a) Technical Reports 1. Development of an Underrunning System for Moored Longlines

c

2. Redfish Harvesting 1985 3. Offshore Scallop Fishing Experiment - St. Pierre Bank - 1985 4. Vessel Analysis Computing System Sea)

b Industry Reports 1. A Study of the Use of Cod, Cod By-Products and Crustacean By-Products for Surimi and Surimi-

Based Products - Part I - Raw Material Assessment 2. Part II - Physiology Studies 3. Part III Shellfish Flavour Extraction Studies 4. The Impact of Sorting Fish Prior to in Newfoundland Fish Plants.

Manuscript Reports 1. Exploratory Survey for Snow Crab in Newfoundland and Labrador, 1968-1985 2. Experimental Crab Project - Newfoundland

General Education Series: Information transfer included the production of two general education brochures, one entitled "Handling and Processing Female Capelin in Newfoundland", which is NO.3 in the "Fishing for Quality" the other entitled "The Ener Sea Program", which is NO.4 in the for Profit" series.

The capelin brochure was distributed to all the licensed capelin fishermen and processors in Newfoundland, while the Ener Sea Brochure was distributed to the owners of vessels 10.6 m to 19.8 m.

Audio-Visuals: Five initiatives were carried out under this section of the Information Transfer Program. They included the production of three new video increasing the number of video in the Fisheries Development Video 10; and five new libraries to the existing 20.

The three video tapes produced were: Scallop St. Pierre Bank"; Monitoring System (FMS 1000)"; "The Contrawl .....""'Tern

During April and May of 1986 twenty libraries were set up throughout the Newfoundland Region. t;::ach library contained 30 different titles in both VHS and Beta formats. The tapes in each library are being loaned out to interested people (ie. fishermen, DFO employees, etc.) free of Borrowers were asked to complete questionnaires on each tape borrowed. A preliminary analysis of indicates that the libraries are being well and well used. Several of the tapes are bieng used by Memorial University, the Marine Institute, and schools in the as part of their curriculum. As a result of this initial response, ten new productions were added and five new libraries were set up during the winter months.

Industry Consultation

During the year seven meetings were held between fishermen groups and Fisheries Development staff. Five of those were held along the Labrador Coast, at St. Lewis, William's Harbour, Punch Bowl, Cartwright, and Tickle. At each fishermen were with brochures, and gear plans and shown video dealing with their particular

The ninth and tenth meetings the Program Development and Review Groups were also held. This group consists of 10 fishermen and five Development Officers and is used to obtain input and criticism from the primary sector relevant to the Regional Fisheries Development Program.

Development Officers from both the Gulf Region headquarters office at Moncton and Area Office at Cor­ner Brook attend PDRG since two fishermen from the west coast (Gulf Region of Newfoundland serve on the Committee.

Vessel Efficiency Sea)

The Ener Sea Program uses modern computer technology to help fishermen reduce the enegy costs in their operation. This program was developed the three-year period 1982-85.

The past year was devoted to transferring the information to fishermen by demonstrations and seminars. During the year 14 vessels were assessed for fuel consumption, RPM and speed. These parameters were

measured by using a fuel measuring device for measuring fuel consumption, a hand-held radar gun for recording and an electronic tachometer for recording RPM. Once this information was collected and computed, the vessel owner was with an operation profile sheet showing him the substantial fuel savings which can occur various reductions in vessel In addition optimum propeller matching for the vessel is also determined by the program.

energy reduuction seminars were held throughout the During these seminars fishermen were to various fuel cost-cutting methods for their vessels. seminar included fuel consumption data collected by the Divison, three energy-related sound-an-slide shows or video ("Cutting the Cost", "Picking a Prop" and Efficiency"), and a summary of VACS (the Vessel Analysis Computing Fishermen also information complete with fact summaries of information collected, brochures, etc.

18

HABITAT DIVISION

Activity in Fish Habitat continued to increase with more than 800 referrals handled at field offices in St. John's, Grand Bank, Grand Falls and Goose Bay, resulting in the issuance of over 300 official authorizations under the Fisheries Act. Many of the referrals and authorizations covered more than one installation as com­panies incorporated referrals for major projects into one application .

There were approximately 600 site inspections conducted in support of the referral and enforcement program.

Court action resulted from three violations, and a number of warnings were issued . Major projects requiring attention included highway construction (especially the trans-Labrador), radar

site construction at Saglek and Cartwright, logging operations and the Hope Brook gold development. Students employed during the summer assisted in fish habitat assessment, site investigation and promo­

tional efforts. There has been a notable increase in public awareness of fish habitat, which is valuable in preventing fish habitat damage and consequent loss of fish .

FISHING VESSEL INSURANCE PROGRAM

During 1986, 610 new policies were written for an insured value of $15,970,795. During the same period 592 renewal policies were issued with an insured value of $23,549,970, making a grand total of 1,202 policies and $39,520,765 in insured value.

During the year under review, 13 total claims were paid with indemnity payments amounting to $656,624. During the same period, 25 partial loss claims were paid with indemnity payments of $170,247, making a total of 38 claims, with a total indemnity payment of $826,871.

In 1986 it was decided that all vessels over 15 gross tons must have a valid C.S.I. before new insurance or a renewal of insurance is issued .

20

Inspection Services Branch Formerly the Fish Inspection Division of the former Fisheries Operations Branch, the Inspection Services

Branch is for providing reasonable assurance that fish and fish for domestic and ex­port trade consistently meet Canadian and/or foreign country standards for grade, handling, identity, pro­cess, quality and safety. The mandate for these responsibilities comes from the Fish Inspection Act, which provides the basis for a national fish inspection program covering inter-provincial trade, export from Canada and import into Canada. The Branch administers and enforces applicable portions of other federal legisla­tion, including the Food and Drugs Act, the Consumer Packaging and Labelling Act, the Fisheries Act, the

Act, the Sanitary Control of Fisheries Regulations and the Fish Health Protection Regula­tions. Through an administrative agreement it also enforces the Newfoundland Fish Inspection Act and the Fishery Act and pursuant

Regionally, the Inspection Branch consists of three Inspection Districts, with a total field staff of 94 employees, and a Regional Headquarters office, giving overall direction for field and laboratory in­spection and seafood quality investigations, with 32 employees. These positions are staffed by both full­time and seasonal

A total of 3,143 vessel inspections were conducted in the region and a compliance level of 82 per cent achieved. Almost all vessels involved in the fishery have been to at least one inspection and over 90 per cent are currently certified.

This year, 181 plants were registered, an increase of 14 per cent over for a total of 400 registered processing operations, an increase of 19 per cent. A total of 4,094 inspections to ensure compliance with construction, equipment and requirements were conducted and a compliance level of 70 per cent attained. There were 43 instances of plant closure resulting from gross non-compliance; these plants were reopened as soon as a satisfactory level of compliance to the regulations was achieved.

The national plant rating was used to rate all plants in the Region during 1986. A total of 672 325 against I (Construction and Equipment) and 347 Schedule II (Operating Requirements), were done. Results indicated that 89 percent of the Region's processing plants have a rating of A or B for

Schedule I and 88 percent a rating of A or B for Schedule II. There were 2,405 inspections of unloading, handling and holding practices at 485 landing sites throughout

the A compliance level of 79 per cent was corrective action was taken by operators of the sites when poor sanitation or unloading practices were noted. A total of 1,031 vehicle inspections were conducted; 86 per cent resulted in full compliance.

Fish and Fish Product

Non-compliance with the Fish Inspection Regulations resulted in the detention in 1986 of 128 lots (650 t) of various fishery products produced in the Newfoundland region. The products were deemed to be tainted, decomposed or unwholesome, or they failed to meet net weight or other labelling requirements. Of these, 48 lots (101 t) of product were rejected after failing re-inspection, and were either or of for non-human food use. In addition, many voluntary disposals were undertaken by processors on the recommendation of Inspection Officers, following inspections of raw or processed fish. Field Of­ficers were also responsible for the inspection of 20 lots of imported frozen fish, representiong 10,368 t of raw material, mostly cod and haddock imported from the Soviet Union.

A number of lots of fish were inspected and certified as meeting health, quality, iden­tity, composition and labelling specifications. Certification from requests from or requirement of importing countries, buyers or financial institutions. Among the lots certified were 1151 t of frozen round mackerel and salted round herring shipped to the Soviet Union under bilat~ral arrangements with Canada.

The Inspection Services Branch was involved in a number of special projects and assignments during the year, including:

o assistance offered to the Provincial Department of Fisheries in establishing a pilot project to test in-plant quality control systems for fresh and frozen groundfish operations

o a project at Makkovik, Labrador, in collaboration with the provincial Department of of raw material determined at dockside with grades of wet salted

mined prior to export o assessment of the effects of different texture qualities of raw material on dried salted fish o survey of dried salt fish products using the final product standards for salted fish o participation at Codex Alimentarius meetings in Bremerhaven, West Germany, and Oslo, Norway, to

provide the Canadian delegation with expert advice on harmonization of fish product standards and the development of international standards and codes of on fish and fish

Seafood

In the Seafood Quality Investigations Section conducted research designed to improve the sensory quality of seafood. included: o continued into the effect of redfeed content upon the quality of female during

storage prior to freezing, during frozen storage and during thawing continued research into the development of an improved over-the-side roller mechanism to reduce the bruising of gillnet-caught cod

o continued research into the effect of bleeding/gutting procedures upon the long-term frozen storage of northern cod

o continued development of a rapid, reliable, and objective method of determining texture (firmness) of raw cod fillets.

Manuscripts published or in-press during 1986 included: ''The Effect of Bleeding/Gutting Procedures on the Sensory Quality of Fresh Raw Atlantic Cod (Gadus morhua)", "Effect of Method of Catching and Time of Season on Quality of Fresh Raw Atlantic Cod" and "Effect of Method of Catching and Time of Season on the Composition of Atlantic Cod".

Fish Laboratories

The Inspection staffed by 15 professional and technical are located at St. John's and Grand Bank. These laboratories provide analytical, consulting and advisory services in microbiology, analytical chemistry and quality assurance, and conduct investigational studies to ensure that objectives are met.

Chemistry Section

In 1986, the Chemistry Section for a variety of chemical entities. Samples were analyzed for contaminants such as pesticides, heavy metals and PSP toxin. In addition, analyses were conducted to determine the presence of additives such as phosphate, sorbitol, sugars, etc., and to determine proximate composition.

22

Work on fishmeal, fish oil and some fish samples was completed on behalf of the fishing industry on a cost-recovery basis. Work for other government departments included analyses of experimental feeds, animal feed and eel feed prepared using fish offal.

Research continued into the devleopment of reliable chemical quality indicators, especially for canned products. In addition, the laboratory continued to expand its data base of composition data for certain species, such as capelin. Work continued, with the collaboration of Seafood Quality Investigations, on methods of chemically analyzing dimethylsulphide content in blackberry cod.

Quality Assurance Section

The Quality Assurance Section is responsible for ensuring that the quality and labelling of domestic and imported products comply with satutory The section also ensures the uniform application of construction and equipment requirements and monitors the operating of canneries under the Fish Inspection Regulations. Investigations arising from consumer complaints are handled the section.

Routine sampling of domestically-produced canned products was conducted throughout the production season. A total of 1,062 units were to including organoleptic quality, seam integrity, weight compliance and commercial sterility. In addition, 45 samples of fresh and fresh frozen product were subjected to 90 tests.

Twelve shipments of imported canned consisting of 57 were sampled; nine batch-coded lots (16%) were refused entry into The Cost Recovery Program collected $2,142 in licencing, im­port, and inspection fees. Participation in the National Check List Program continued; 42 cans were examin­ed for quality. A total of 1,297 labels were evaluated and/or reviewed for compliance with tion covering packaging and labelling requirements.

Twenty-seven consumer complaints arising from concerns regarding poor quality, foreign matter, defec­tive seams and can integrity and improper labelling were investigated. Seventeen complaints were verified and the results were forwarded to both complainants and product producers/distributors.

The construction and operations of four canning facilities were assessed. One joint inspection with the Health Protection Branch of Health and Welfare was conducted. In addition, seven heat submitted by industry were evaluated by heat penetration all were deemed acc:eptao

Microbiology Section

During 1986, the Microbiology Section monitored products from fish filleting, freezing, smoking and secan· dary processing facilities in the Newfoundland Region. The Regional Laboratory in St. John's and the District Laboratory in Grand Bank conducted a total of 31,639 analyses of 3,118 (13,743 of domestic fish and fish products. The section also conducted 111 analyses on 11 samples (47 units) of ported fish and fish products. At the request of fish processors, 76 sample units submitted by the processing industry were subjected to 340 Throughout the 4,510 analyses were performed on 486 water samples (2,430 units). Of these samples, 91 were taken surveys for proposed water supplies and 395 were taken as part of the in-plant monitoring program for plant water

Personnel of the Microbiology Section also responded to major contamination problems at three process­ing establishments in 1986. On the basis of sanitation surveys and visual inspection of plant operations, the section was able to supply plant management with recommendations that were instrumental in eliminating the contamination problems in these plants.

In March, personnel of the Regional Laboratory and one technician from the Grand Bank laboratory par­ticlpa1ted in the Laboratory Quality Assurance of the United Food and Drug Administration. All participants performed well in this check-sample program.

24

Harbours & Infrastructure Branch The Harbours and Infrastructure Branch is a result of the recent amalgamation of the division

of the former Fisheries Development Branch with the former Small Craft Harbours Branch. The role of the Harbours and Infrastructure Branch is to maintain programs in support of the fishing industry throughout the Newfoundland Region. The Branch's two major components are the Industry Programs Division and the and Construction Division; are designed to upgrade and develop fisheries related facilities.

INDUSTRY PROGRAMS DIVISION

This Division administers the continuing operational aspects of the Harbours and Infrastructure Branch, including the Newfoundland Bait Program, the Canada Fisheries Development Program (Coastal Labrador), the Atlantic Fisheries Ice Making/Storage Infrastructure Program and the Inshore Fish Handling Program. The Division also a Special Unit designed to identify certain community needs for new or improved fishing facilities and to undertake joint planning and funding activities for these projects with local and other agencies. The Property Management section is also the responsibility of the Industry Division.

Newfoundland Bait

The Newfoundland Bait Program ensures a continuous supply of bait to all commercial fishermen the procurement, preparation and distribution of bait through the bait depots and units throughout New­foundland and Labrador. In 1986 there were twelve and 22 units providing bait to fishermen.

The Bait Program operations were limited in 1986 due to fiscal restraint. A number of seasonal bait depots and bait units were not or shortened open periods. The facilities affected had shown very little sales activity over the past few years due to the non-availability of squid. Mackerel was not con­sidered a suitable alternative in these areas. Bait units established on the Labrador Coast in 1985

experienced minimum utilization in 1986. Bait of 2.6 million pounds were below average re­quirements due to reduced funding. Bait sales of eight million pounds reflected an increase over recent years due to high prices paid for fish and resultant increased fishing activity.

Bait inventories at year end were considerably below normal and additional will be to sustain the 1987 fisheries.

During 1986 freezing capacity was upgraded at Twillingate and Long Harbour bait depots, and room was updated at TWiliingate, Bonavista and Belleoram. The increased efficiency and

costs.

Inshore Fish

Under the Inshore Fish Handling Program unloading hoists were operated in 155 communities throughout the Newfoundland Region as well as A-Frame truck loaders and wash down systems at many of these locations.

Unloading systems installed at eight other locations were not made operational due to deceased activities at these sites.

During the year requests were received for the installation of fifteen additional unloading systems. However, the Program Authority had to deny the activation of these because of the non-availability of funding.

Canada Fisheries Develloo,mEmt

The Canada Fisheries Development Program for Coastal Labrador had projects ongoing during the 1986 construction season, as well as eleven contracts involving the and distribution of insulated containers to fishermen. The construction projects included facilities upgrading, installation of water sup­plies, a fish holding unit and landing facility, a fish handling facility and a fisheries complex at Smokey.

Operation of the fisheries service complex at Punch Bow was started during the 1986 fishing season by the Canadian Corporation. An exceptional amount of fishing and buying activity was experienced at Punch Bowl, with the service center accommodating the needs of the Labrador fishermen of the area through the provision of facilities and services which in past years were lacking.

Numerous benefits have been realized by developing these new facilities along the Labrador coast. Im­proved and new onshore have enabled fishermen to better handle and prepare lengthen fishing seasons and increase their incomes. The program has focused on establishing infrastructure in of the under-utilized but growing Labrador fishery. 1986 was the final year of the six-year Canada Development for Coastal Labrador.

Atlantic Fisheries Ice Isr,nr;a'l"IA Infrasturcture .......'l"I ..,£IIm

With the completion of the two-year implementation phase of the Atlantaic Fisheries Ice Making/Storage Infrastructure Program, 1986 was the first year of monitoring for compliance with program regulations for the efficient utilization of ice making facilities established under the program. At all locations ice was available to fishermen, processors and those involved in the transportation of fish.

The program has received positive feedback regarding the benefits of the new 300 tonnes of ice making capacity developed through the 25 projects throughout the Newfoundland Region. There have been requests by both established and new processing for assistance in obtaining ice making equipment similar to those provided under the Ice Making/Storage Program.

Helsocms,e Unit

Most activities were centered around three thrusts of the Canadian Job Strategy initiatives. Under the Regular Job Program five fisheries related projects were undertaken. These

jects were monitored for compliance with DFO agreements forming part of the program criteria. included salmon enhancement, statistical data dissemination and facility repairs and construction.

the final quarter, 36 projects were started and completed under the special feature of Job Develop­ment known as the Responses/Fisheries ,jointly funded by DFO and C.E.I.C. A total of 182 fishermen and 459 plant workers obtained sufficient employment to provide eligibility for unemploy­ment insurance benefits.

DFO as Training Host' to seven participants of a corporate sponsored ~ob Entry' project. This unit such assistance to sponsor and DFO personnel alike in the co-ordination of these projects.

The Property Management Section is for the provision of efficient harbour and property manage­ment for the regional system of fishing recreational harbours in accordance with the Fishing and Recrea­tional Harbours Act and Regulations.

The Branch currently administers 339 leases and licences whereby permission has been given to private companies or individuals to use certain property administered by the Department, wharves, com­munity stages and unloading systems.

At some of the more active fishing communities, Harbour have been appointed to oversee and monitor the usage of the Branch's facilities and related property. are responsible for (1) management and and supervision of all Harbours and Infrastructure facilitie (2) collection of fees for the use of the facilities; and (3) enforciong the Fishing and Recreational Harbours Act and Regulations.

t-lYI', .....o,rt" acquisition is an ongoing responsibility and in 1986 there was a total of 26 property acquisition was initiated. Conversely, the Branch considered 18 structures surplus to its and arrangements were made with Public Works Canada to initiate property disposal action.

ENGINEERING AND CONSTRUCTION DIVISION

The Engineering and Construction Division's main responsibility is the planning and implementarion of major capital and maintenance projects administered through Public Works Canada.

The Division also assists in carrying out minor operations and maintenance and redredging projects in­house as well as providing technical advice and financial assistance to projects approved under special development programs which meet the of the Branch.

Current work consists of maintaining upgrading existing structures and providing new facilities such as breakwaters, wharves and slipways, and the dredging of channels and basins, in approximately 400 fishing and recreational harbours within the Newfoundland Region.

A close liaison exists with Public Works Canada, who provide design, construction and ser­vices. Liaison is also maintained with other Fisheries and Oceans Branches to ensure that harbour develop­ment and related programs are in harmony with present and future needs of the fisheries.

During the 1986/87 fiscal year this Division implemented through Public Works of Canada 18 maintenance and 18 capital projects. Approximately 200 minor operations and maintenance and redredging pro­

were carried out in-house by Harbours and Infrastructure Branch staff.

for which

The and construction Division is responsible for harbour planning to meet the guidelines of accommodation, established by Small Craft Harbours for fishing and recreational facilities across Canada; and for the preparation of a multi-year plan and long term list of projects.

District

The District Section's main responsibility is to determine the for the ment of harbours, facilities and services to meet the needs of the commercial and recreational fisheries and to plan and arrange for the maintenance, repair and upkeep of such facilities. As well, the Section assists in the enforcement of Acts and administered by the Branch to ensure proper and authorized

of facilities. Section is comprised of four District Managers, each responsible for approximately 100 harbours in

a specific geographic area. Two of the District Managers are located at Regional Office in St. John's and two are located at the Area Office in Grand Falls.

Over the past year the Section has been involved in numerous meetings at the community and regional levels and has maintained a close liason with other federal and provincial departments to ensure optimum use of facilities.

During the 1986/87 fiscal 46 and maintenance projects were implemented through Public Works Canada on behalf of Department of Fisheries and Oceans. The District Management Section assisted in this implementation and provided close monitoring during the contract and post-contract stages. As well, the Section implemented approximately 200 minor operations and maintainance projects, including re-dredging. Financial andlor technical assistance was provided to approximately 89 projects conducted through the Canadian Job Strategy and other makework projects. The activities of such projects were directed at improvements to existing harbour facilities or the creation of additional facilities in keeping with long term plans for harbour development.

28

Program Coordination and Economics Branch The Program Coordination and Economics Branch provides comprehensive economic advice in support

of fisheries management and development initiatives affecting the harvesting and processing sectors of the fishing industry. Key areas of research and include licence limitation regimes, optimum size and composition of domestic fleets and allocation of resource among various competing fleet sectors. The Branch also provides economic advice its membership on various Species Advisory assesses proposed development projects related to plant establishment, modernization or upgrading in the processing sector and evaluates program and policy initiatives to determine the economic, social and com­mercial benefits that accrue.

Branch efforts in 1986 can be categorized under the and policy

headings of (1) fleet performance analysis; (2) economic and commercial analysis; (3) (4) economic support for fisheries

and (5) data collection and of data bases.

Fleet Performance An:::IIV:~1

of the economic performance of various fleet sectors is a fundamental input into the resource management process. For this reason, the Branch analyzes the performance, on an annual of a number of fishing fleets. These analyses provide senior management with an appraisal of the fleet's actual economic performance, its requirements to operate on an economically viable basis and the of alternate manage­ment strategies. may also take into account, if factors such as vessel replacement, in market volumes, TAC and so on.

In 1986, following fleet performance analyses were completed the Branch:

An Economic Assessment of the Northern Shrimp The Economics of the Crab Fishery, Newfoundland

Evaluation of the Economic Effect of Increasing the

1986. 1979-85.

Length.

Economic and Commercial

Considerable Branch effort is directed towards general economic and commercial analyses of the Region's fishing industry. These are usually conducted in response to ad hoc requests related to emerging issues and problems, or involve special initiatives or projects being contemplated or undertaken by the department.

In 1986, the Branch completed a broad of ad hoc analyses on issues ranging from an assessment of the extent of the failure of the 1986 cod to an economic assessment of the impact of on Newfoundland processors. The following represent the major analyses undertaken:

An of the Extent of the Failure of the 1986 Inshore Codfish An Assessment of Fishermen and Plant Workers UI Status and the Proposed Creation Program. An Assessment of the Economic Impact of Harvesting and Processing 2J3KL Cod Inshore and Offshore. An Economic Assessment of the Impact of Nematodes on Newfoundland Processors. An Assessment of the Practical Possibilities for Capelln Production in the Newfoundland Region. The Economics of Atlantic Salmon - A Background Paper. Economic analysis in support of Canada's position for the La Bretagne Arbitration.

Evaluation

The Branch has an ongoing responsibility to monitor and evaluate Regional programs and that relate specifically to the fishing industry and also to provide input into the formulation of proposed groups and pOlicies. Generally, efforts focus on the economic impact of policies and programs on the Region's harvesting and processing sector.

In some of the major projects related to program and policy evaluation were:

Discussion Paper: Underutilized Species in Atlantic Canada. Discussion Paper: Foreign Investment Policy Issues in the Newfoundland Region. Discussion Paper: Recovery Concepts and Options for the Fish Benefit-Cost Analysis of the Upper Exploits Salmon Enhancement Program.

o Development of a Memorandum of Understanding to Establish an Industry Consortium to Manage the Resource Short Plant in the Newfoundland Region.

with Fisheries of a Fish Review.

Economic - Fisheries De1/ell::mrnel,t

The Branch provides senior management with financial and commercial analYSis in support of fisheries development projects which involve the of public monies in the processing sector. These attempt to ensure that public financial to processors is used to improve the overall net economic benefit to the industry.

In 1986, the Branch reviewed 43 public investments from the Department of Regional Industrial Expansion, the Newfoundland and Labrador Development Corporation and the provincial Department of Rural, Agricultural and Northern Development. The total capital cost of these proposals was $8,358,531.

In addition, the Branch also coordinates departmental input and recommendations with to pro­jects proposed under Canada Employment and Immigration Commission programs. Approximately 200 ap­plications, having a value of $30 million, were submitted by various groups and organizations in this program.

Data Collection/Information S\I!::tY""lm"lt

Information which provide economic data on the basic operating (e.g. catch plant capacities, etc.) of fishing fleets and processing plants are essential to the provision of accurate and timely advice on the financial position of the fishing industry and the economic impact of resource

"' .... " ...." • ..,...''''nt decisions and public investment initiatives. For this reason, the Program Coordination and Economics Branch has been in the forefront of data collection efforts in this area.

In 1986, the Branch conducted its annual and Earnings Survey" of approximately 500 inshore and nearshore fishing enterprises in conjunctions with the provincial Fishing Industry Advisory Board. This data base is fundamental to a wide range of studies undertaken by the Branch, and has been updated on an annual basis since the 1981 fishing season.

Results (Table of the 1985 Costs and Survey indicate that the average inshore and near-shore enterprises experienced a significant decrease revenues during the 1985 fishing season. This decline in revenues resulted in the financial losses of the average inshore enterprise increasing to $1383 in 1985 from $1048 in 1984, and the losses of the average nearshore enterprise increasing to $5,965 from $4121.

Table 5.1: Average Revenue and of Inshore and Nearshore Enterprises, Newfoundland (Insular Portion), 1984-85

Inshore Nearshore 1984 1985 1984 1985

($) ($) ($) ($) Total Revenue 12,113 9,839 43,100 35,136 Total Costs

Operating 1,408 6.328 5,926 Repairs & Maintenance 804 3,690 3,386 Net Gear Purchases 606 1,821 1,676

- Fixed 444 4,099 3,922 - Labour 8,972 - Depreciation Total 13,161 Net Profit (loss) (1,048) (1,383) (4,121) (5,965)

11,222 47,221 41.101

The Branch also conducted a "Vessel Utilization Survey" of approximately 1250 registered fishing vessels to determine the degree to which fishing vessels were utilized in the fishery in 1985 and the type of activities in which they were engaged. This baseline data will be used to determine the number of active enterprises fleet sector in the Region.

With the of Inspection Services the Branch also conducted a "Plant Capacity Survey" in 1986. This survey will update the Branch's comprehensive inventory of processing plants and plant capacities in the Region.

Published NP'''Inr'Ul

As a result of the Branch's work activities, the following reports were published in 1986:

D Economic Analysis of the 1984 Resource Short Plant Program - Newfoundland Region. D Benefit/Cost Analysis, Direct Sales Program, Newfoundland Region, 1985. D Costs and Inshore and Nearshore Fishing in the Newfoundland Region

- 1985. D Economic Indicators of Inshore and Nearshore Fishing Enterprises in the Newfoundland Region, 1981-85. D The Economics of the Crab Fishery, Newfoundland Region. 1979-85, D Economic Effect of Increasing the Legal Lobster Carapace Length, 1986.

32

Fisheries Statistics and Systems Branch The Fisheries Statistics and Branch provides essential statistical information on all phases of

the fishing industry, including harvesting (catch and effort), landings and landed values, products and pro­duct values, inventories of all fish products, and data on numbers of vessels and fishermen deployed in the harvesting sector.

The Branch makes extensive use of computers to enter, edit, process and store data pertaining to the fishing industry in a of information systems. Standard reports are produced on a regular basis with ad-hoc inquiries being on an on-going basis. Data is provided to numerous recipients, including such organizations as provincial and federal government departments, international agencies, private sec­tor operators, universities and fishing industry partiCipants. Plans are underway to install an in-house com­puter facility which will be operated and maintained by the Branch and provide service to the other bran­ches of the department.

The Fisheries Statistics and Systems Branch reports that preliminary statistics indicate Newfoundland Region seafish landings in 1986 amounted to 425 thousand tonnes, up 10 per cent from the 1985 catch of 386 thousand tonnes.

The 1986 gross landed value of $158 million is up 25 cent from the 1985 landed value of $126 million. The preliminary data indicate that the 1986 landed is the highest ever recorded.

Total groundfish landings were 333 000 tonnes in 1986, compared to 322 000 t in 1985. Cod landings increased five per cent from the 1985 catch of 212 000 t. The landed value of groundfish in 1986 was $113.5 million, compared to $96.2 million in 1985.

Table 6.1: Groundfish Landings, Newfoundland Region, in 1986 and 1985

1986 1985 % Change ('000 Metric Tonnes)

Cod 222 212 +5 Flounders & Soles 62 61 -2 Redfish 22 27 -18 Turbot 13 15 -13

< Other Total

Landings of Pelagic and Other Fin Fish totalled 81 900 t in 1985, an increase of 29 900 t from 1985. This was mainly due to higher caplin landings in 1986. The value of pelagic and other fin fish landings jumped to $25.6 million in 1986. from 11.2 million in 1985.

Table 6.2: Pelagic and Other Fin Fish Landings, Newfoundland Region, 1986 and 1985

1986 1985 % Change ('000 Metric Tonnes)

Herring 4.3 2.8 +53 Salmon 1.0 0.8 +25 Capelin 65.0 32.9 +97 Mackerel 11.4 15.3 ·25 Other Total

Molusc and Crustacean landings totalled 13 400 t in 1986, up .09 cent from 1985 landings of 12 300 1. Their 1986 value was $21.9 million, up slightly from $19 million of 1985. .

Table 6.3: Mollusc and Crustacean Newfoundland Region, 1986 and 1985

1983 1985 0/0 Change ('00 Metric

Lobster 1.3 1.5 -13 Crab 9.0 7.7 +17 Squid 0.0 0.4 -100 Shrimp 2.7 2.3 +17 Scallops Total

cod production increased to 5 900 t dry weight in 1986 from 5 000 t in 1985. The noY,,,,ont!:l

the total cod landings used for salting increased to 13 per cent in 1986 compared to 12 per cent in Production of frozen groundfish increased to 100 000 t in 1986 from 88 000 t in, 1985. Frozen cod pro­

ducts accounted for 63 per cent of the frozen groundfish production, followed by flounder at 15 per cent, redfish at six per cent and turbot at three per cent.

The total number of licenced fishermen exceeded 20,000 in 1 with over 18,000 involved in the in­shore fishery and 2,000 in the offshore fishery.