Conservation group, fisheries union works to develop plan for cod recovery

ST. JOHN’S, N.L. – A fisheries union and environmental group are releasing a plan to work together to conserve fish stocks off Newfoundland and Labrador.

WWF-Canada and Fish, Food and Allied Workers say their plan is meant to rebuild northern cod in the province.

It’s hoped that the Fishery Improvement Project will make sure the once-depleted stock remains sustainable once it reaches a level that can support a commercial fishery.

The groups say a rebuilding plan would include timelines, harvest-control rules and an estimate of the recreational cod-fishery catch.

It would also involve regular monitoring of how the fishery affects the ecosystem, such as the bycatch of endangered species.

The plan, drafted by the federal Fisheries Department, fishermen and other conservation groups, will be implemented over the next five years.