Canada’s fisheries support marine ecosystems, coastal economies and thousands of livelihoods. However, many fish populations in Atlantic Canada and the Eastern Arctic remain depleted, with climate change creating additional challenges for their recovery.

Becht Foundation has supported Oceans North’s fisheries work since 2023. During this period, the organisation has contributed scientific and policy expertise to the development of rebuilding plans for priority depleted fish stocks, including cod, herring, mackerel, shrimp and redfish. It has also participated in government and industry advisory processes, advocating for more precautionary and sustainable fisheries management.

We have renewed our support as Oceans North works to promote the effective implementation of rebuilding plans and further progress towards healthier fish populations. The organisation will continue providing evidence and recommendations to government, engaging with the fishing industry and advocating for climate change to be considered in decisions affecting vulnerable stocks.

The next phase will also promote stronger fisheries monitoring, more accurate catch data and measures to reduce bycatch and damage to sensitive marine habitats. Together, these changes would strengthen the conditions needed for depleted fish populations to recover and help sustain marine biodiversity and coastal communities over the long term.