Click image to enlarge. Image by Aquaholics
Overfishing is defined as taking more fish and other seafood out of the ocean than can be naturally replenished. Overfishing is not a new issue in Canada; the devastating Newfoundland Cod Collapse in 1992 was a clear example of mismanagement through overfishing. Nonetheless with better fisheries management, sustainable fishing strategies, and taking only what we need, fish populations will be able to persist and thrive. We don’t want history to repeat itself with our salmon and other fish species, therefore, we must learn from our previous actions and fish well within the ecosystem’s limits so that the Salish Sea remains diverse in its wildlife, healthy and able to support both human and wildlife needs.
Questions to think about:
- What is overfishing?
- How do we know we are overfishing?
- What are some of the main fishing methods?
- What could we do to improve fishing methods?
- What should consumers consider?
