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ARCHIVED - RPP 2006-2007
Fisheries and Oceans Canada


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Plans for 2006-2009 by Strategic Outcome

In this section:

Safe and Accessible Waterways

Surrounded by the Arctic, Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, and home to the Great Lakes, Canada is one of the foremost maritime nations in the world. Canada boasts the world's:

Providing access to Canadian waterways and ensuring the overall safety and integrity of Canada's marine infrastructure for the benefit of all Canadians.

  • Longest coastline (243,792 kilometres) — stretched out as a continuous line, it would circle the equator more than six times (25% of the world's coastline);
  • Largest freshwater system — Canada's two million lakes and rivers cover 7.6% of its landmass (755,000 square kilometres);
  • Longest inland waterway (3,700 kilometres) — from the Gulf of St. Lawrence to Lake Superior;
  • Largest archipelago — Canada's Arctic islands, including six of the world's 30 largest islands, cover 1.4 million square kilometres; and
  • World's greatest tidal range — 16 metres in the Bay of Fundy and Ungava Bay.

Canada's oceans and inland water system, and their resources, have played an important role in the country's history, identity and culture. Eight of the 10 provinces and all three territories have ocean shorefront, and nearly a quarter of Canadians live in coastal communities. Canada's inland water system — particularly the St. Lawrence Seaway and the Great Lakes — has also played a pivotal role in Canada's development.

Canada's oceans, shorelines and inland waters support a growing number of industries and uses. Shipping, fishing, aquaculture, ecotourism, boating, oil and gas extraction, and other ocean activities contribute an estimated $20 billion a year to the Canadian economy.

The Safe and Accessible Waterways strategic outcome is delivered through three program activities:

  • Canadian Coast Guard;
  • Small Craft Harbours; and
  • Science.

Operating Environment

International trade and marine traffic are growing steadily, and competition for waterway use is increasing. There is more and more pressure to enhance maritime security measures, increase the federal presence in Canadian waters and improve on-water response capability in such areas as conservation and protection and anti-smuggling activities. Increases in domestic traffic will increase waterway congestion, add to the competition for certified marine personnel and further complicate internal and trans-border security concerns. It will also necessitate additional hydrographic charting and ocean science services. Canadians and other countries expect that the Coast Guard will minimize the loss of life, injuries and property damage resulting from maritime incidents and support environmental protection efforts.

The Canadian Coast Guard's strategic response to this complex operating environment is to focus on its state of readiness to best react to marine emergencies through operation response and to mitigate risks through prevention programs and services to promote safety. In this context, "safety" refers to people's personal and economic well-being, the protection of infrastructure and the protection of the ocean and freshwater environments. Coast Guard, as a national institution, is optimizing program service delivery as a Special Operating Agency to best meet the varying needs of diverse clients and stakeholders. As a visible and active operational presence along Canada's marine borders, the Canadian Coast Guard is also a strong symbol of national identity and Canadian sovereignty.

Departmental efforts remain focused on providing access and ensuring the overall safety and integrity of Canada's marine infrastructure.

Planned Spending and Full-time Equivalents (FTEs), Safe and Accessible Waterways
Financial Resources
(millions of dollars)
2006-2007 2007-2008 2008-2009
Safe and Accessible Waterways 696.5 717.6 737.6
Program Enablers1 141.1 137.2 135.4
Total 837.6 854.8 873.0
Human Resources
(number of FTEs)
2006-2007 2007-2008 2008-2009
Safe and Accessible Waterways 5,026 5,026 5,011
Program Enablers1 870 875 882
Total 5,896 5,901 5,893

Note: Because of rounding, figures may not add to the totals shown.

1Financial and human resources for Program Enablers have been prorated across program activities. The section Other Items of Interest provides further information on Program Enablers.

Program Activity: Canadian Coast Guard

Description from Part II — The Main Estimates: Provision of maritime services that contribute to the enhancement and maintenance of maritime safety and commerce; protection of marine and freshwater environment; oceans and fisheries resource management; security; and other government maritime priorities via maritime expertise, Canada's civilian fleet, a broadly distributed shore infrastructure, and collaboration with various stakeholders.

Expected Results

  • Minimal loss of life, injury and property damage resulting from marine incidents
  • Effective and efficient management of waterways that support marine commerce
  • Sustainability of the marine and freshwater environment through timely and effective response
  • A marine infrastructure that provides efficient services to all clients
Planned Spending and Full-time Equivalents, Canadian Coast Guard
Financial Resources
(millions of dollars)
2006-2007 2007-2008 2008-2009
Canadian Coast Guard 565.4 605.0 626.0
Program Enablers1 112.2 111.4 111.6
Total 677.62 716.42 737.6
Human Resources
(number of FTEs)
2006-2007 2007-2008 2008-2009
Canadian Coast Guard 4,604 4,604 4,589
Program Enablers1 700 731 723
Total 5,304 5,335 5,312

Note: Because of rounding, figures may not add to the totals shown.

1Financial and human resources for Program Enablers have been prorated across program activities. The section Other Items of Interest provides further information on the Program Enablers.

2Totals do not reflect respendable revenue. For details on respendable revenue, see the table Sources of Respendable and Non-Respendable Revenue.

Canadian Coast Guard Sub-activities

The Canadian Coast Guard program activity is delivered via nine program sub-activities:

  • Aids and Waterways Services — delivering Aids to Navigation, Waterways Management, and Marine Safety Information services to support marine safety, accessibility of waterways, and environmental protection, including maintenance dredging of the Great Lakes Connecting Channels (treaty obligation);
  • Marine Communications and Traffic Services — providing marine distress/safety communications and co-ordination, conducting vessel screenings, regulating vessel traffic movement and providing information systems and public correspondence on a 24/7 basis;
  • Icebreaking Services — providing icebreaking and related services (ice routing and information, harbour breakouts, information provision, routing assistance, etc.) to facilitate safe and expeditious movement of maritime traffic through and around ice-covered Canadian waters;
  • Search and Rescue Services — with the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary, providing and leading the maritime search and rescue component of the federal search and rescue program with the primary goal of saving lives at risk in Canada's maritime environment;
  • Environmental Response Services — as the lead federal agency for ship-source spill response, delivering environmental incident preparedness and response services that protect the marine environment under Canadian jurisdiction and providing response assistance to other countries under international agreements (for north of 60°, CCG is the sole response organization);
  • Coast Guard College — operating as the Canadian Coast Guard's training authority; preparing marine personnel to deliver Coast Guard services and programs to the highest of standards;
  • Maritime Security — providing leadership of the Government of Canada's maritime security priorities within Fisheries and Oceans Canada with a focus on the provision of on-water services, maritime domain awareness and maritime expertise;
  • Contribution to Other Government Objectives — delivery of civilian marine services (expertise, personnel and infrastructure (vessels and aircraft)) on behalf of other government departments or in support of agencies and organizations in the achievement of the Government of Canada's maritime priorities; and
  • Coast Guard Fleet Services — management, operation and maintenance of the CCG Fleet (vessels and aircraft) for the purpose of delivering civilian marine services in support of the Government of Canada's maritime priorities.

Plans for 2006-2009 by Sub-activity

The Department will focus on the following plans for CCG sub-activities during the current planning period.

Plans for 2006-2009 by Sub-activity
Plans Expected Results Performance Indicators
Aids and Waterways Services
  • Ongoing operations as described above this table
  • Rejuvenation Agenda — Proceed with the Marine Aids Modernization project to ensure that DFO provides an effective and efficient service responding to users' changing needs
  • Reinvest in strategic assets to address compliance with Canada Shipping Act standards
  • Safe and effective vessel transits and movements and access to ports
  • Public/stakeholder confidence in aids and waterways services
  • Number of incidents incidents attributed to aids to navigation
  • Number of incidents attributed to waterways conditions
  • Level of public confidence
Marine Communications and Traffic Services (MCTS)
  • Ongoing operations as described above this table
  • Rejuvenation Agenda — Install an Automatic Identification System at 80 remote sites sites, interfacing the system at MCTS centres and implementing a Long-Range Vessel Identification and Tracking (LRIT) capability; replace the Communication Control System at 22 MCTS centres and provide training at the Coast Guard College; implement the Global Marine Distress and Safety System via Very High Frequency Digital Selective Calling at selected sites, including the St. Lawrence River and Great Lakes Basin; continue to migrate to a single national Vessel Traffic Management Information System to link and filter all data to government agencies and the marine industry
  • Reduced number and severity of maritime incidents with human, property and environmental consequences
  • Efficient movement of shipping
  • Public/stakeholder confidence in marine communications and traffic services
  • Number of incidents detected; shipping accidents — collisions, groundings and strikings
  • Vessel movement per incident
  • Level of public confidence
Icebreaking Services
  • Ongoing operations as described above this table
  • Safe, timely and efficient vessel transits and movements through ice-infested waters
  • Reduced flooding caused by ice jams (further resulting in less property damage and shore erosion)
  • Enhanced Arctic sovereignty
  • Public/stakeholder confidence in icebreaking services
  • Number of vessels damaged by ice
  • Number of flood control tasking
  • Number of route assistance and ice information requests
  • Icebreaker availability
  • Level of public confidence
Search and Rescue Services
  • Ongoing operations as described above this table
  • Rejuvenation Agenda — Update the search and rescue program needs needs analysis to identify demand and determine an equitable approach to deliver search and rescue services across Canada; renew the service delivery partnering arrangements with the CCG Auxiliary
  • Minimized loss of life and injuries to people at risk in marine incidents
  • Reduced number and severity of search and rescue incidents
  • Public/stakeholder confidence in search and rescue services
  • Percentage of lives saved relative to lives at risk
  • Level of public confidence
Environmental Response Services
  • Ongoing operations as described above this table
  • Rejuvenation Agenda — Renew CCG's role as a response organization to ensure that CCG enhances its efficacy as the lead federal agency for managing responses to marine pollution incidents; invest in a rejunvenated training and exercise program plan as well as a national environmental response strategy
  • Minimized adverse impacts of marine pollution incidents
  • Public/stakeholder confidence in environmental response services
  • Effectiveness of response to number of spills
  • Level of public confidence
Coast Guard College
  • Ongoing operations as described above this table
  • Rejuvenation Agenda — Develop a more focused and businesslike institution with a renewed mandate to supply officers and technical experts to the CCG fleet; attain financial sustainability through a resource review and the adoption of appropriate management frameworks
  • Highly qualified Canadian Coast Guard personnel providing safe and effective delivery of the Canadian Coast Guard programs and services
  • A Canadian Coast Guard ready to face current and future demographic changes
  • National and international recognition for excellence in delivery of specialized marine training and expertise to Canadian and international partners and clients
  • Under development
Maritime Security
  • Ongoing operations as described above this table
  • Recognition of CCG/DFO as a value-added and proactive partner in the delivery of multi-agency solutions for enhanced maritime security
  • Number of public security and anti-terrorism initiatives DFO/CCG is involved in
  • Level of confidence of federal security community
Contribution to Other Government Objectives
  • Ongoing operations as described above this table
  • Client service requirements met in a safe and efficient manner
  • Under development
Coast Guard Fleet Services
  • Ongoing operations as described above this table
  • Rejuvenation Agenda — Continue the Fleet replacement strategy, including the acquisition of 8 mid-shore patrol vessels and 2 offshore fisheries science vessels; implement vessel life extension projects to return vessels to a baseline condition; bring Fleet Renewal Plan of 2011-2015 forward for approval in 2006-2007 to replace various types of vessels; develop human resource plan for seagoing personnel; introduce plan for rotational crewing system for discussion; improve fleet information management, as well as fleet financial planning, pricing and costing
  • Client service requirements met in a safe and efficient manner
  • Safe delivery — number, type and level of risk of hazardous occurrences; number and nature of non-conformities
  • Efficient delivery — vessel utilization percentage, vessel non-assignment percentage, actual maintenance percentage, actual multi-tasking percentage
  • Effective delivery — actual service delivery percentage, actual CCG and client delays

Program Activity: Small Craft Harbours

Description from Part II — The Main Estimates: Operation and maintenance of a national system of harbours critical to Canada's commercial fishing industry.

As part of the Departmental Renewal initiative, the Small Craft Harbours Program will continue to work on possible new directions intended to place the Program on a more sustainable basis, while addressing evolving program requirements and client needs.

Expected Results

  • A network of harbours essential for Canada's commercial fishing industry that is open, safe, efficient and in good repair
  • Program directions adjusted to place the Program on a more sustainable basis, while addressing evolving program requirements and client needs
  • Major repairs and maintenance to core fishing harbours undertaken
  • Recreational and non-core fishing harbours divested and core fishing harbours modified to better meet demand
  • Strong, professional and independent Harbour Authorities operating and managing core fishing harbours
Planned Spending and Full-time Equivalents, Small Craft Harbours
Financial Resources
(millions of dollars)
2006-2007 2007-2008 2008-2009
Small Craft Harbours 95.6 77.5 74.5
Program Enablers1 17.6 12.8 10.7
Total 113.3 90.3 85.2
Human Resources
(number of FTEs)
2006-2007 2007-2008 2008-2009
Small Craft Harbours 125 125 125
Program Enablers1 107 79 80
Total 232 204 205

Note: Because of rounding, figures may not add to the totals shown.

1Financial and human resources for Program Enablers have been prorated across program activities. The section Other Items of Interest provides further information on the Program Enablers.

Small Craft Harbours Sub-activities

The Small Craft Harbours program activity is delivered via three program sub-activities:

  • Operations — operating, through client-run Harbour Authorities, a national system of harbours critical to Canada's commercial fishing industry; co-ordinating efforts to maintain and recruit Harbour Authorities; providing support and guidance on harbour management; addressing the changing needs of commercial fishing and aquaculture industries; and ensuring environmental compliance with federal, provincial and municipal regulations;
  • Maintenance — providing strategic direction for harbour and facility development, repair and maintenance; providing the comprehensive program and project planning required to develop and maintain core harbours; and promoting efficient and effective project delivery mechanisms to ensure harbour safety and optimal management of client needs; and
  • Divestiture — divesting harbours not essential for Canada's commercial fishing industry; monitoring compliance with terms and conditions of divestiture agreements pursuant to divestiture of non-core harbours; implementing safety measures and ensuring minimal maintenance at non-core harbours as required; and undertaking pre-divestiture repairs or providing equivalent grants in support of divestiture.

Plans for 2006-2009 by Sub-activity

Ongoing operations account for the majority of the resources used to carry out Small Craft Harbours sub-activities. In addition to ongoing operations, the Department will focus on the following plans for Small Craft Harbours sub-activities during the current planning period.

Plans for 2006-2009 by Sub-activity
Plans Expected Results Performance Indicators
Operations
  • Achieve greater economies of scale, for example, by facilitating larger geographic groupings
  • Encourage Harbour Authorities (HAs) to share the costs of harbour administration, operation and professional management
  • Use the existing network of HA Advisory Committees to communicate with HAs
  • Increase the number of existing core fishing harbours managed by HAs
  • Support superior environmental management by monitoring the Environmental Management Plans in place and ensuring compliance with federal, provincial and municipal regulations
  • Efficient and effective management of core fishing harbours by Harbour Authorities
  • Compliance with environmental and health and safety standards
  • Percentage of existing core fishing harbours managed by Harbour Authorities
  • Percentage of core fishing harbours that have Environmental Management Plans in place
Maintenance
  • Identify and implement strategic opportunities to improve project delivery by investigating alternative delivery mechanisms
  • Increase the role of HAs in project management
  • Prepare and implement an annual expenditure plan to ensure that current harbour facilities have safe structural and operating conditions and can accommodate changes in client mix over the longer term
  • Condition and functional adequacy of harbours essential for Canada's fishing industry that meet client expectations
  • Cost-effective and efficient management of maintenance and repair activities
  • Performance ratings at core fishing harbours
  • Condition of facilities at core fishing harbours
Divestiture
  • Conduct pre-divestiture repairs or provide equivalent grants, with priority going to the harbours with the most urgent requirements or best opportunities
  • Implement safety measures at non-core fishing and recreational harbours pending divestiture
  • Divestiture of recreational and low-activity fishing harbours with minimal negative impact on communities
  • Non-core fishing harbours pending divestiture that are safe, and active recreational harbours that remain operational
  • Number of recreational and low-activity fishing harbours divested per year
  • Number of harbours divested annually versus total number of harbours to be divested
  • Percentage of facilities at non-core fishing harbours and of recreational harbours that are "fair", "good" or "very good"
  • Percentage of "fair", "good" or "very good" performance ratings at non-core harbours

Program Activity: Science

Description from Part II — The Main Estimates: Provision of scientific research, monitoring, advice, products and services and data management in support of safe and accessible waterways. These functions are provided through a network of research facilities in collaboration with other government departments, private sector, academia and international organizations.

In addition to bringing the two Science programs (hydrography and ocean science) together, to improve synergy and integration of effort, Science will directly support the departmental priority on International Governance through the provision of information, data and evidence in support of Canada's Sovereign claim under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Science will also undertake additional hydrographic charting in high-risk areas to help ensure the safe navigation of mariners in key areas and in areas of increased industrial activities where current charts are less than adequate.

Expected Results

  • Science information (oceanographic information and hydrographic products and services) are used to achieve: a) Safe navigation and b) Sovereignty and protection

Performance Indicators

  • Annual distribution of hydrographic charts, publications and information brochures
  • Proportion of service targets met
  • Work completed for Canada's claim to the continental shelf under UNCLOS
Planned Spending and Full-time Equivalents, Science
Financial Resources
(millions of dollars)
2006-2007 2007-2008 2008-2009
Science 35.5 35.1 37.1
Program Enablers1 11.2 13.0 13.1
Total 46.7 48.1 50.1
Human Resources
(number of FTEs)
2006-2007 2007-2008 2008-2009
Science 298 298 298
Program Enablers1 63 66 80
Total 361 364 378

Note: Because of rounding, figures may not add to the totals shown.

1Financial and human resources for Program Enablers have been prorated across program activities. The section Other Items of Interest provides further information on Program Enablers.

Science Sub-activities

Science in support of safe and accessible waterways is delivered by means of two program sub-activities:

  • Providing products and services for navigation — providing up-to-date, timely and accurate hydrographic products and services through surveys, measures and charts that describe the physical features of Canada's oceans, seas, rivers and lakes; and
  • Supporting maritime safety and security and Canadian sovereignty — providing hydrographic data and information to support territorial claims and international disputes associated with limits and boundaries, as well as undertaking oceanographic research and monitoring that enable the forecasting of ocean conditions and provide insight into the impacts of climate change on navigation.

Plans for 2006-2009 by Sub-activity

Ongoing operations account for the majority of the resources used to carry out Science sub-activities in support of safe and accessible waterways. In addition to ongoing operations, the Department will focus on the following plans for Science sub-activities in support of safe and accessible waterways during the current planning period.

Plans for 2006-2009 by Sub-activity
Plans Expected Results
Providing Products and Services for Navigation
  • Continue to apply a risk-based approach and level of service initiative to the management of the hydrographic portfolio of navigational products
  • Undertake additional hydrographic charting in high-risk areas
  • Initiate the development of a model for increased private-sector participation in printing and distributing Canadian Hydrographic Service (CHS) navigational products
  • Improved and more up-to-date charts and other navigational products
  • Increased accuracy and detail of navigation products
  • Increased access to and use of navigation tools by mariners and industry
  • Increased integration of nautical information and products
Supporting Maritime Safety and Security and Canadian Sovereignty
  • Provide information, data and evidence to support Canada's claim to the outer limits of the continental shelf under Article 76 of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea
  • Improved ability to forecast ocean events and ice conditions
  • More hydrographic and ocean event data available to users to ensure security and safety (e.g., Department of National Defence, Royal Canadian Mounted Police, CCG)
  • Increased data to negotiate offshore Canadian jurisdiction


Sustainable Fisheries and Aquaculture

Delivering an integrated fisheries and aquaculture program that is credible, science based, affordable, and effective, and contributes to sustainable wealth for Canadians.

Commercial and recreational fishing are important sources of revenue in parts of Canada where few other economic opportunities exist. The Atlantic fishing industry employs more than 84,000 people and the Pacific fisheries provide employment for 14,000 fishers and plant workers. Despite declines in the historically valuable groundfish stocks of Atlantic Canada and the lucrative salmon fisheries of the Pacific coast, abundant harvests of snow crab, lobster and shrimp are pushing Canadian fishery exports to new highs. In 2004, Canada's fish and seafood exports reached $4.5 billion — the highest value on record. And Canadian sport fishing continues to inject billions of dollars into local economies each year.

Canada's commercial fishery is characterized by a multitude of small operators and a handful of large vertically integrated companies that are continually faced with challenges in light of a complex mix of biological, economic and social factors. After record landed values in the commercial fishery in 2004, the industry is now facing a number of important economic and resource issues. A high Canadian dollar that is hurting our exports of fishery products, competition with countries such as China, as well as price and resource declines in Atlantic shellfish and Pacific salmon fisheries are hampering the long-term viability of harvesting and processing operations that are crucial to many rural and remote coastal communities.

The viability of many of Canada's coastal communities is directly linked to the health of the fisheries. As world demand for fish and seafood products soars, there is a need to be increasingly vigilant about the health of our fisheries and the integrity of the ecosystems that support them. New technologies have made it easier to catch and process far more fish than can be harvested sustainably. In other words, there simply may not be enough wild fish to keep pace with the rising demand.

The decline of some historically valuable stocks in the 1990s made it clear that ecosystems are complex living systems that respond to human activity and global environmental changes in unpredictable and variable ways. The job of Fisheries and Oceans Canada is to continue to understand the complex factors governing fish abundance through sound science, to regulate the harvest and to preserve fish habitat so Canadian fisheries will remain viable.

Fisheries Management Renewal (FMR) is a package of program renewal undertakings that promote a strong and healthy resource and an improved relationship with resource users and other stakeholders. It sets out to achieve three objectives: strong conservation outcomes, shared stewardship, and stable access and allocation. The FMR agenda is being implemented in concert with Science Renewal, especially in regard to the achievement of strong conservation outcomes, which include an increasing focus on the scientific study and evaluation of Canada's aquatic ecosystems.

The growing world demand for fish, coupled with the inability of wild fish stocks to sustainably meet demand, has kindled much interest in aquaculture — the farming of fish, shellfish and aquatic plants. Aquaculture currently produces nearly a third of the fish and shellfish consumed worldwide; by 2010, it could account for nearly half of the world's fisheries production. In Canada, aquaculturists are cultivating everything from salmon and halibut to mussels and scallops. In doing so, they are bringing much-needed economic diversification to many coastal communities.

This strategic outcome is about delivering an integrated fisheries and aquaculture program that is credible, science based, affordable, and effective, and contributes to sustainable wealth for Canadians. This will result in sustainable fisheries and aquaculture. Ensuring conservation and sustainable use of Canada's fisheries resources depends on sound scientific research and advice and on developing a modernized fisheries management regime that is integrated with the broader oceans management agenda.

This strategic outcome is delivered through three program activities:

  • Fisheries Management;
  • Aquaculture; and
  • Science.

Operating Environment

DFO continues to pursue a renewal agenda that focuses on modernizing the decision-making system and building new relationships with resource users based on shared stewardship. Efforts will be guided by the principles of ecosystem-based management, predictability, stability and transparency. The challenge is to create the conditions for improving the economic viability and performance of the fishing and aquaculture sectors.

These changes are essential to meeting the challenges of the Species at Risk Act, mitigating the effects of climate change and achieving sustainable fisheries. DFO will work with other levels of government and resource users to develop recovery strategies for fisheries facing serious conservation and socio-economic challenges.

The Department is committed to fostering the growth of a sustainable aquaculture industry. It will do this by enhancing public confidence in the sector, increasing the industry's global competitiveness, seeking to maintain a healthy environment, ensuring healthy fish products and co-operatively managing aquatic resources based on sound science.

Planned Spending and Full-time Equivalents, Sustainable Fisheries and Aquaculture
Financial Resources
(millions of dollars)
2006-2007 2007-2008 2008-2009
Sustainable Fisheries and Aquaculture 535.1 430.0 423.0
Program Enablers1 121.2 116.1 111.2
Total 656.3 546.2 534.2
Human Resources
(number of FTEs)
2006-2007 2007-2008 2008-2009
Sustainable Fisheries and Aquaculture 2,572 2,497 2,490
Program Enablers1 690 696 684
Total 3,262 3,193 3,174

Note: Because of rounding, figures may not add to the totals shown.

1Financial and human resources for Program Enablers have been prorated across program activities. The section Other Items of Interest provides further information on the Program Enablers.

Program Activity: Fisheries Management

Description from Part II — The Main Estimates: Conservation of Canada's fisheries resources to ensure sustainable resource utilization through close collaboration with resource users and stakeholders.

Expected Results

  • Conservation of stocks and habitat
  • Sustainable resource use for present and future generations
Planned Spending and Full-time Equivalents, Fisheries Management
Financial Resources
(millions of dollars)
2006-2007 2007-2008 2008-2009
Fisheries Management 379.5 285.0 282.0
Program Enablers1 63.7 64.3 63.6
Total 443.2 349.3 345.6
Human Resources
(number of FTEs)
2006-2007 2007-2008 2008-2009
Fisheries Management 1,502 1,473 1,473
Program Enablers1 414 429 426
Total 1,916 1,902 1,899

Note: Because of rounding, figures may not add to the totals shown.

1Financial and human resources for Program Enablers have been prorated across program activities. The section Other Items of Interest provides further information on the Program Enablers.

Fisheries Management Sub-activities

This program activity is delivered via five program sub-activities:

  • Resource management — delivering policies, programs and plans, in partnership with industry, to manage and protect fishery resources, to ensure sustainability and provide for the fair allocation and distribution of harvestable surpluses among those dependent on the resource;
  • Aboriginal policy and governance — providing policy advice on Aboriginal fishing issues, negotiating agreements on the management of Aboriginal fisheries, integrating agreements into overall management frameworks, advising on land claims and self-government, and promoting fisheries-related economic opportunities for Aboriginal communities;
  • Salmon Enhancement Program — focusing on fish production to preserve vulnerable stocks and sustain fisheries, increasing public awareness and building community involvement capacity;
  • International fisheries conservation — negotiating and administering international treaties and agreements affecting conservation, allocations, the conduct of bilateral and multilateral fisheries relations with other countries, the settlement of issues related to maritime boundary disputes, and the formulation and presentation of international fisheries conservation advice to the Minister; and
  • Conservation and protection — deploying Fishery Officers to ensure compliance with the legislation, regulations and fishing plans relating to conservation and sustainable use of the resource through promotion, monitoring and enforcement.

Plans for 2006-2009 by Sub-activity

Ongoing operations account for the majority of the resources used to carry out Fisheries Management sub-activities. In addition to ongoing operations, the Department will focus on the following plans for Fisheries Management sub-activities during the current planning period.

Plans for 2006-2009 by Sub-activity
Plans Expected Results
Resource Management
  • Continue to prepare and implement Integrated Fisheries Management Plans for all key fisheries
  • Modernize fisheries management by clarifying policy direction and programming
  • Integrated management of fisheries resources in collaboration with stakeholders
  • A modernized fisheries management regime
Aboriginal Policy and Governance
  • Negotiate and implement fisheries agreements with First Nations and Aboriginal communities and promote integrated commercial fisheries
  • Provide policy advice and support in regard to maintaining and enhancing relations with Aboriginal communities and First Nations
  • Modernize fisheries management by clarifying policy direction and programming
  • Negotiation and implementation of fisheries agreements with First Nations and Aboriginal communities in fulfilment of federal fiduciary responsibilities
  • Promotion of integrated commercial fisheries
Salmon Enhancement Program
  • Continue fish production at hatcheries
  • Continue fish habitat restoration projects and initiatives
  • Continue community outreach, partnering and education
  • Strategic enhancement of wild stocks and fish habitat
  • Increased awareness and stewardship to conserve and protect fish and fish habitat
International Fisheries Conservation
  • Negotiate and administer bilateral and multilateral fisheries treaties and governance agreements related to trans-boundary, highly migratory, straddling and external fish stocks on the high seas
  • Develop and implement a governance strategy on long-term foreign overfishing and fishing on the international high seas
  • Assertion of Canadian interests with respect to internationally managed fish stocks
  • Sound international fisheries governance
  • Protection of Canadian sovereignty
Conservation and Protection
  • Deploy Conservation and Protection personnel to promote compliance and deter non-compliance activities
  • Promote compliance and enforcement activities on the Fraser River
  • Modernize fisheries management by clarifying policy direction and programming
  • A high level of compliance with fisheries legislation and regulation in the delivery of effective compliance programs
  • A more strategic, integrated, innovative, risk-based compliance program

Program Activity: Aquaculture

Description from Part II — The Main Estimates: Creation of conditions for a vibrant and innovative aquaculture industry that is environmentally and socially responsible, economically viable and internationally competitive.

Responsibility for aquaculture development is shared among the federal, provincial and territorial governments. DFO, as the lead federal department for aquaculture, works to renew and strengthen the management framework for aquaculture by engaging other federal departments, provincial and territorial governments, and industry and aquaculture stakeholders in helping to establish the conditions for vibrant and responsible aquaculture development.

DFO works to ensure that the aquaculture support programs it develops and delivers are fully integrated into the Department's policy approach, and that the advice and guidance provided to industry, the review of site applications, the issuance of applicable licences, and the review of applications under other government department programs are aligned with DFO's objectives and priorities.

Recognizing the critical importance of public, consumer and investor confidence in Canadian aquaculture, DFO seeks to engage stakeholders, Aboriginal peoples and other interested Canadians in meaningful dialog on aquaculture issues to ensure its policies, advice and the programs it delivers reflect the priorities of Canadians and keep pace as aquaculture grows in Canada.

Expected Results

  • Informed and objective decision making
  • Sound and integrated governance
  • Enhanced environmental monitoring, compliance and auditing
  • Stakeholder/partner engagement
  • A streamlined regulatory environment, harmonized standards and practices and enhanced public confidence to support the development of aquaculture in Canada

Performance Indicators

  • Increase in aquaculture production, i.e., growing, competitive, market-focused industry with good environmental and social performance
  • Percentage of decisions complying with a risk/evidence/science-based decision-making approach
  • Percentage of regions with operating federal and joint federal/provincial/territorial review bodies
  • Creation of codes of conduct by industry that address federal requirements
Planned Spending and Full-time Equivalents, Aquaculture
Financial Resources
(millions of dollars)
2006-2007 2007-2008 2008-2009
Aquaculture 2.7 2.7 2.7
Program Enablers1 0.8 0.7 0.7
Total 3.5 3.4 3.4
Human Resources
(number of FTEs)
2006-2007 2007-2008 2008-2009
Aquaculture 27 27 27
Program Enablers1 5 5 5
Total 32 32 32

Note: Because of rounding, figures may not add to the totals shown.

1Financial and human resources for Program Enablers have been prorated across program activities. The section Other Items of Interest provides further information on the Program Enablers.

Program Activity: Science

Description from Part II — The Main Estimates: Provision of scientific research, monitoring, advice, products and services and data management in support of sustainable fisheries and aquaculture. These functions are provided through a network of research facilities in collaboration with other government departments, private sector, academia and international organizations.

Science will provide direct support to established priorities through the following initiatives:

  • International fisheries and oceans governance — improve knowledge about the structure, functioning and properties of high seas ecosystems, as well as the ecological impacts of fishing. The new knowledge will enable Canada to join the global community in contributing to a sound scientific base in support of international fisheries governance regimes.
  • Science Renewal — continue to realign science efforts in support of a broader ecosystem-based scientific approach to the monitoring and assessment of the status of fishery resources.
  • National Aquatic Animal Health Program (NAAHP) — continue implementation of the NAAHP. Science will establish a National Diagnostic and Research Laboratory System for the delivery of information required to support new aquatic animal health regulations being developed by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.
  • Aquatic Invasive Alien Species — begin implementation of Canada's Action Plan to Address the Threat of Aquatic Invasive Species.

Expected Results

  • Scientific information to support a program vision of sustainable harvest and culture of fish and other aquatic resources and to contribute to sustainable wealth and environment

Performance Indicators

  • Scientific production by Fisheries and Oceans
  • Canadian confidence in DFO Science
  • Level of partnering in scientific research
  • Variance from planned resourcing
  • Number of responses to requests for science advice
Planned Spending and Full-time Equivalents, Science
Financial Resources
(millions of dollars)
2006-2007 2007-2008 2008-2009
Science 152.9 142.3 138.3
Program Enablers1 56.7 51.2 46.9
Total 209.6 193.5 185.2
Human Resources
(number of FTEs)
2006-2007 2007-2008 2008-2009
Science 1,043 997 990
Program Enablers1 270 263 253
Total 1,313 1,260 1,243

Note: Because of rounding, figures may not add to the totals shown.

1Financial and human resources for Program Enablers have been prorated across program activities. The section Other Items of Interest provides further information on the Program Enablers.

Science Sub-activities

Science in support of sustainable fisheries and aquaculture is delivered through six program sub-activities:

  • Monitoring and assessing the status of fishery resources — providing scientific advice on the status of stocks and conservation objectives for fish, invertebrate and marine mammals, in support of decision making on sustainable harvest levels and international negotiations on the management of straddling stocks;
  • Supporting the assessment and recovery of species at risk — conducting research and monitoring, including strategies, action plans and identification of critical habitat, to provide advice on the status of aquatic species, the issuance of permits and agreements, and the recovery of species at risk;
  • Researching aquatic invasive species and monitoring aquatic animal diseases — providing advice, including surveillance, detection and reporting of diseases of national and international importance in wild and cultured aquatic animals, to assist efforts to prevent the introduction of aquatic invasive species and animal diseases and to control them when they are introduced;
  • Supporting sustainable aquaculture and understanding aquaculture-environment interactions — undertaking research directed toward improved production and environmental performance of the aquaculture industry and the increased understanding of interactions between aquaculture and the environment;
  • Applying genomics and biotechnology to aquatic ecosystems — developing and adopting leading-edge genomics and biotechnology tools to improve the Department's ability to protect endangered species, manage opening and closing of fisheries, avoid overexploitation of resources, prosecute poachers, improve aquaculture practices, control disease outbreaks, remediate contaminated sites, and regulate aquatic organisms with novel traits; and
  • Contributing to science management in DFO and the Government of Canada — providing national management functions to support the Science program within the Department and across federal science-based departments and agencies.

Plans for 2006-2009 by Sub-activity

Ongoing operations account for the majority of the resources used to carry out Science sub-activities in support of sustainable fisheries and aquaculture. In addition to ongoing operations, the Department will focus on the following plans for Science sub-activities in support of sustainable fisheries and aquaculture during the current planning period.

Plans for 2006-2009 by Sub-activity
Plans Expected Results
Monitoring and Assessing the Status of Fishery Resources
  • Support Canada's strategy to curb overfishing and strengthen international fisheries governance by improving knowledge of the structure, functioning and properties of high seas ecosystems, as well as the ecological impacts of fishing
  • Assist Fisheries and Aquaculture Management in applying the precautionary approach, implementing the Pacific Wild Salmon Policy, developing and implementing a Wild Atlantic Salmon Policy and providing advice on conservation objectives
  • Increased knowledge of stock-specific conservation requirements and impacts of harvesting for use by decision makers
  • Increased knowledge of sustainable fisheries practices for use by industry and subsistence fishers
Supporting the Assessment and Recovery of Species at Risk
  • Provide information to the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada in support of its efforts to identify and assess species that may be at risk
  • Provide advice on the issuance of Species at Risk Act (SARA) permits and agreements by the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans under Section 73 and 74 of the Act
  • Provide advice on the recovery of species at risk; this includes developing and implementing recovery strategies and action plans, identifying habitats necessary for the survival and recovery of the species, and evaluating the chances of recovery
  • Support consultations on 22 species that are candidates for Schedule 1 listing (Species at Risk Act)
  • Increased knowledge to support recommendations for SARA listing and for the issuing of permits
  • Increased knowledge in support of actions for the recovery of listed species
Researching Aquatic Invasive Species and Monitoring Aquatic Animal Diseases
  • Start implementing Canada's Action Plan to Address the Threat of Aquatic Invasive Species by undertaking research to address high-priority species, pathways of invasion and geographic locations; work will continue on planning activities associated with the rapid response to newly discovered introductions, and the development of the national Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) database; methodologies for detecting new invasions, tracking the spread of established populations and assessing risk will also be examined
  • Support Policy Sector in the development of a national regulatory framework for AIS
  • Continue implementing NAAHP; Science will establish a National Diagnostic and Research Laboratory System for delivery of information required to support new aquatic animal health regulations being developed by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency
  • Assist with the development of new aquatic animal health regulations under the Canadian Food Inspection Agency's Health of Animals Act and work with the Agency to ensure delivery of federal responsibilities
  • Increased knowledge of pathways, controls and impacts of aquatic invasive species for use by decision makers
  • Enhanced ability to prevent serious disease outbreaks and certify aquatic animal health status in support of the Canadian fish/seafood trade
Supporting Sustainable Aquaculture and Understanding Aquaculture-Environment Interactions
  • Develop and operationalize a national integrated aquaculture science framework
  • Provide scientific information and advice on the interactions between aquaculture and the environment, notably on the science underpinning aquaculture performance, monitoring requirements, operational standards and best management practices
  • Co-ordinate and engage in collaborative research and development in support of sustainable aquaculture and the commercialization of innovations
  • Increased knowledge for use by decision makers for the development of aquaculture policies and guidelines
  • Increased knowledge of sustainable aquaculture practices for use by the aquaculture industry
Applying Genomics and Biotechnology to Aquatic Ecosystems
  • Continue to identify genetic markers to improve species and strain identification
  • Develop and apply genomic tools to detect and monitor aquatic animal diseases, as well as environmental stress in aquatic ecosystems
  • Develop bio-remediation technologies to support remediation of contaminated sites
  • Conduct research on the genetics, biology, physiology, behaviour, and fitness of novel and transgenic fish in support of the Department's regulatory obligations to administer the New Substance Notification Regulations under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act
  • Continue to fulfil a regulatory role through implementation of the New Substance Notification Regulation Program for notifications of aquatic organisms with novel traits, including genetically engineered fish for import or manufacture; also develop new aquatic-specific regulations
  • Increased knowledge and use of biotechnology by decision makers managing aquatic resources
  • Increased knowledge and capacity to assess applications for novel aquatic organisms
  • Improved processes for evaluation/approval of novel aquatic organisms
Contributing to Science Management in DFO and the Government of Canada
  • Continue to implement the renewal of the Science Program with a view to finishing in the next two to five years; this will include implementing components of the Expenditure Review Committee reductions
  • Continue to integrate the Department's science and technology efforts with the broader national agenda for science and technology
  • Pursue opportunities to build knowledge and recognition of DFO's scientific achievements through strategic public outreach initiatives with national partners
  • Effective and efficient use of resources (e.g., financial, human, facilities)
  • Contribution to interdepartmental federal science and technology initiatives

Healthy and Productive Aquatic Ecosystems

Canada's oceans and inland water resources have played a crucial role in the nation's history and identity, and they are inherent to Canada's environmental, social and economic prosperity and well-being. Oceans and freshwater are a finite resource, yet the scale and diversity of oceans-related activities are growing dramatically. Commercial fishing fleets, fish farmers, recreational boaters, ecotourists, cruise ship operators, offshore oil and gas developers, and marine transport companies all compete for their share of the ocean.

Sustainable development and integrated management of resources in or around Canada's aquatic environment through oceans and fish habitat management.

The fundamental principle that guides DFO's objective of maintaining healthy and productive aquatic ecosystems is sustainable development. This approach seeks to support an array of economic activities while adhering to environmental protection standards and supporting the social needs of communities, including those of Aboriginal peoples. The Department applies the principle of sustainable development by adopting key practices, such as the precautionary approach, integrated management, ecosystem and watershed planning, partnering arrangements with stakeholders, and effective and efficient regulation.

Canada's fisheries, waterways and aquatic ecosystems are part of a complex and increasingly vulnerable system. The effects of the numerous challenges faced by the country's waterways are often cumulative, and there is a pressing need for a long-term, integrated plan designed to minimize those threats. Aquatic ecosystems must be protected to ensure the continuation of their ability to produce food, harbour aquatic life, provide recreational opportunities and bring economic stability to coastal communities through job creation.

Operating Environment

In the coming months and years, Canada is expected to experience strong economic growth, especially in the energy and mining sectors, which will have socioeconomic and environmental effects across the country as well as internationally. Much of this development is expected in especially sensitive areas, such as the North.

The annual value of oceans activities is estimated to be in the range of $22 billion and includes, for example, fishing, shipping, transportation, offshore oil and gas-related initiatives.

With respect to onshore natural resource-based economic sectors (e.g., energy development, forestry, mining), it is estimated that $200 billion of forecast development will occur in the next few years. For example, in Alberta, total investment for the energy sector through 2013 is expected to be $80 billion. Increased pipeline activity has led to more than $5 billion in pipeline proposals for oil export to the United States and Asia from Alberta and British Columbia. In the North, there is also the possibility that within the next five years, as many as 12 mines will be developed in the Northwest Territories, 22 in Nunavut and four in the Yukon. These activities will have a significant impact on oceans and inland waters both now and in the foreseeable future and will need to be managed in a sustainable way if the potential benefits to local communities are to be realized and the environment protected.

This growth will be characterized by an increase in the volume of work to be reviewed and managed and also by the complexity of the projects. In particular, there are heightened expectations for consultation with stakeholders, as well as higher legal thresholds for consultations with Aboriginal communities before making regulatory decisions.

Planned Spending and Full-time Equivalents, Healthy and Productive Aquatic Ecosystems
Financial Resources
(millions of dollars)
2006-2007 2007-2008 2008-2009
Healthy and Productive Aquatic Ecosystems 136.0 124.1 123.7
Program Enablers1 45.9 45.3 40.9
Total 181.9 169.4 164.6
Human Resources
(number of FTEs)
2006-2007 2007-2008 2008-2009
Healthy and Productive Aquatic Ecosystems 1,059 1,011 955
Program Enablers1 225 214 212
Total 1,284 1,225 1,167

Note: Because of rounding, figures may not add to the totals shown.

1Financial and human resources for Program Enablers have been prorated across program activities. The section Other Items of Interest provides further information on the Program Enablers.

Program Activity: Oceans Management

Description from Part II — The Main Estimates: Conservation and sustainable use of Canada's oceans, in collaboration with others, through integrated oceans management plans which include marine protected areas and marine environmental quality objectives.

http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/canwaters-eauxcan/oceans/index_e.asp

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Expected Results

  • Increased collaboration between all key stakeholders involved in managing Canada's oceans
  • Improved wealth and opportunities for coastal communities
  • Increased conservation of marine and coastal environments
  • Improved health of the oceans

Performance Indicators

  • Oceans Action Plan Phase I deliverables completed and used to inform the development of Oceans Action Plan Phase II
  • Establishment of Regional Implementation Committees within Large Ocean Management Areas
  • Completion of workplan for Canadian Council of Fisheries and Aquaculture Ministers - Oceans Task Group
  • Completion of five Ecosystem Overview and Assessment Reports and identification of Ecologically and Biologically Significant Areas
  • Percentage of the seven potential Marine Protected Areas to be designated by 2009
Planned Spending and Full-time Equivalents, Oceans Management
Financial Resources
(millions of dollars)
2006-2007 2007-2008 2008-2009
Oceans Management 26.0 18.7 18.7
Program Enablers1 7.1 5.3 5.1
Total 33.1 24.0 23.8
Human Resources
(number of FTEs)
2006-2007 2007-2008 2008-2009
Oceans Management 114 116 102
Program Enablers1 46 37 36
Total 160 153 138

Note: Because of rounding, figures may not add to the totals shown.

1Financial and human resources for Program Enablers have been prorated across program activities. The section Other Items of Interest provides further information on the Program Enablers.

Oceans Management Sub-activities

The Oceans Management program activity is delivered through three program sub-activities:

  • Integrated Management — adopting spatially based planning and management processes of Canada's ocean resources, through the use of an ecosystem-based approach to manage, conserve and protect sensitive marine ecosystems;
  • Marine Protected Areas — designating Marine Protected Areas to protect priority sensitive marine areas through special regulatory measures; and
  • Other Oceans Management — enhancing leadership, federal co-ordination and collaboration with other levels of government to achieve common oceans objectives in the delivery of the Oceans Action Plan.

Plans for 2006-2009 by Sub-activity

Ongoing operations account for the majority of the resources used to carry out Oceans Management sub-activities. In addition to ongoing operations, the Department will focus on the following plans for Oceans Management sub-activities during the current planning period.

Plans for 2006-2009 by Sub-activity
Plans Expected Results Performance Indicators
Integrated Management
  • Continue the integrated management planning of five priority Large Ocean Management Areas: Placentia Bay/Grand Banks, Scotian Shelf, Gulf of St. Lawrence, Beaufort Sea and the Pacific North Coast; in the initial phase, the main focus will be ecosystem overview reports and mapping of sensitive marine areas
  • Continue to address governance issues in integrated management planning
  • Develop federal-provincial-territorial agreements on oceans priorities as required
  • Develop agreements with First Nations or Aboriginal organizations
  • Conclude the Canada-BC Memorandum of Understanding on Oceans
  • Regional Implementation Committees established for each of the five Large Ocean Management Areas
  • Active involvement of the Oceans Technology Group to facilitate advancement of integrated management
  • Signing of federal and provincial Memorandums of Understanding and other agreements related to oceans management
  • Science-based guidance to oceans stakeholders and regulations focused on sustainable development goals
  • Number of Regional Implementation Committees involved in the implementation of the Oceans Action Plan Phase I
  • Provinces, territories, First Nations and stakeholders engaged and actively participating in implementation of Oceans Action Plan Phase I and development of Oceans Action Plan Phase II
  • Percentage of Large Ocean Management Areas with Ecosystem Overviews and Assessment Reports completed and Ecologically and Biologically Significant Areas identified
Marine Protected Areas
  • Implement the federal Marine Protected Area (MPA) strategy
  • Communicate a government-wide strategy for MPAs
  • Designate MPAs on a priority basis as approved by the Minister in all three of Canada's oceans
  • Identify candidate MPAs in the five priority Large Ocean Management Areas (LOMAs) as building blocks of the national network
  • Increased understanding and protection of the marine environment within the five priority LOMAs and MPAs
  • Designation of new MPAs by March 2007
  • Implementation of the federal MPA strategy
  • Completion of the designation process for the establishment of identified MPAs
  • Identification of areas of interest in the 5 LOMAs as components of the national MPA network
Other Oceans Management
  • Finalize seismic guidelines designed to mitigate the effects of seismic sound on the marine environment
  • Co-operation with federal, provincial and territorial agencies implementing the seismic guidelines
  • Eighteen deliverables of Oceans Action Plan Phase I implemented through collaborative arrangements with provinces and regions
  • Mitigation of seismic noise in the marine environment through adoption of seismic guidelines

Program Activity: Habitat Management

Description from Part II — The Main Estimates: Protection and conservation of freshwater and marine fish habitat, in collaboration with others, through a balanced application of regulatory and non-regulatory activities including reviewing development proposals, conducting environmental assessments and monitoring compliance and effectiveness.

As part of the departmental priority Environmental Process Modernization, the Habitat Management Program is focusing on the implementation of the Environmental Process Modernization Plan. The expected results of these efforts include healthy and productive fish habitat.

Expected Results

  • Healthy and productive fish habitat available to sustain the production of fish species and populations that Canadians value

Performance Indicators

  • Number of habitat compensation plans developed to create and/or replace fish habitat lost as a result of development projects
Planned Spending and Full-time Equivalents, Habitat Management
Financial Resources
(millions of dollars)
2006-2007 2007-2008 2008-2009
Habitat Management 56.6 55.5 55.2
Program Enablers1 14.1 13.8 13.2
Total 70.7 69.3 68.4
Human Resources
(number of FTEs)
2006-2007 2007-2008 2008-2009
Habitat Management 452 451 451
Program Enablers1 95 96 96
Total 547 547 547

Note: Because of rounding, figures may not add to the totals shown.

1Financial and human resources for Program Enablers have been prorated across program activities. The section Other Items of Interest provides further information on the Program Enablers.

Habitat Management Sub-activities

The Habitat Management program activity is delivered through three program sub-activities:

  • Conservation and Protection of Fish Habitat — reviewing, assessing and monitoring activities in and around water to ensure compliance with the Fisheries Act and Species at Risk Act;
  • Environmental Assessment — conducting Environmental Assessments (EAs) of proposed projects or activities under the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act (CEAA) before making decisions under the Fisheries Act and in accordance with the Species at Risk Act; and
  • Other Habitat Management — providing services in support of Fisheries Act referrals and EA activities.

Plans for 2006-2009 by Sub-activity

Ongoing operations account for the majority of the resources used to carry out Habitat Management sub-activities. In addition to ongoing operations, the Department will focus on the following plans for Habitat Management sub-activities during the current planning period.

Plans for 2006-2009 by Sub-activity
Plans Expected Results Performance Indicators
Conservation and Protection of Fish Habitat
  • Implement these aspects of EPMP: risk management, referral streamlining, partnering and modernization of habitat compliance
  • Implement Expenditure Review Committee reductions: $1.5 M in 2005-2006, $0.8 M in 2006-2007, $0.8 M in 2007-2008, as well as 42 FTEs by 2007-2008
  • Proponents' projects completed with minimal or no adverse effects on fish habitat
  • Partners and stakeholders aware and supportive of fish habitat management objectives
  • Number of Letters of Advice and authorizations issued
  • Number of partnership agreements/arrangements
  • Percentage of proponents that comply with the requirements of the habitat protection provisions of the Fisheries Act
  • Use of Operational Statements for low-risk activities by proponents, industry associations and provinces
  • Number of National Operational Statements developed and approved
  • Degree to which Operational Statements have been incorporated into industry Best Management Practices; co-ordinated with provincial permitting systems
  • Expenditure Review Committee decisions implemented
Environmental Assessment
  • Participate with other federal government departments to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the EA process
  • Implement the aspect of EPMP dealing with improved management of environmental assessment for major projects
  • Environmental effects considered in a timely, co-ordinated and effective manner before regulatory decisions are made under the Fisheries Act
  • Number of EA screenings, Comprehensive Studies, Panels initiated, ongoing or concluded
  • Number of projects requiring CEAA review that incorporate Habitat Management Program requirements and advice
  • Number of EAs for major projects that are harmonized with provinces and other federal responsible authorities
Other Habitat Management
  • Implement the aspect of EPMP that focuses on improving the predictability and coherence of decision making
  • Awareness of habitat management concepts, objectives, principles and practices by Habitat Management Program staff
  • Percentage of staff who have completed individual training under the Mandatory Training Program

Program Activity: Science

Description from Part II — The Main Estimates: Provision of scientific research, monitoring, advice, products and services and data management in support of healthy and productive aquatic ecosystems. These functions are provided through a network of research facilities in collaboration with other government departments, private sector, academia and international organizations.

Science will provide direct support to established priorities through the following initiatives:

  • Oceans Action Plan — developing Ecosystem Overview and Assessment Reports and identifying Ecologically Significant Areas for each of the five Large Ocean Management Areas;
  • Environmental Process Modernization Plan — providing advice concerning the evidence linking human activities to impacts on fish habitat and examining the scientific foundation for the application of risk-management principles to the management of fish habitat;
  • Northern Energy Development — providing advice on the Mackenzie Gas Pipeline Project to support decision requirements associated with the environmental impact assessment, regulation (Fisheries Act) and monitoring;
  • International Polar Year — participating in the Program, with the objective of building on and supporting the Department's and the Government of Canada's knowledge requirements associated with climate change impacts and adaptation, and the health and well-being of northern communities; and
  • Science Renewal — continuing to realign Science efforts in support of a broader ecosystem-based scientific approach to healthy and productive aquatic ecosystems.

Expected Results

  • Science information used to support the integrated management of healthy and productive aquatic ecosystems for the benefit and enjoyment of Canadians

Performance Indicators

  • Scientific production by Fisheries and Oceans
  • Canadians' confidence in DFO Science
  • Level of partnering in scientific research
  • Number of responses to requests for science advice
Planned Spending and Full-time Equivalents, Science
Financial Resources
(millions of dollars)
2006-2007 2007-2008 2008-2009
Science 53.4 49.8 49.7
Program Enablers1 24.7 26.2 22.6
Total 78.1 76.1 72.3
Human Resources
(number of FTEs)
2006-2007 2007-2008 2008-2009
Science 493 445 405
Program Enablers1 84 82 81
Total 577 527 486

Note: Because of rounding, figures may not add to the totals shown.

1Financial and human resources for Program Enablers have been prorated across program activities. The section Other Items of Interest provides further information on the Program Enablers.

Science Sub-activities

Science in support of healthy and productive aquatic ecosystems is delivered through three program sub-activities:

  • Assessing the impacts of development on aquatic ecosystems — providing scientific advice on potential impacts, mitigation measures and risks associated with development activities and toxic chemicals and contaminants on aquatic ecosystems in support of the Department's habitat management authorities and oceans management (e.g., Fisheries Act, the Policy for the Management of Fish Habitat, Species at Risk Act, Oceans Act and the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act);
  • Assessing aquatic ecosystems and supporting integrated oceans management — providing sound ecosystem-based science and integrated multi-disciplinary data management to support the integrated management of oceans resources and spaces; and
  • Monitoring, understanding and predicting variation and change of ocean climate — conducting research and monitoring that enable the prediction of ocean influences on and responses to climatic change and variability, as well as the assessment of potential impacts on ecosystems, fish and mammal populations to enable mitigation and adaptation strategies for the management of aquatic ecosystems.

Plans for 2006-2009 by Sub-activity

Ongoing operations account for the majority of the resources used to carry out Science sub-activities in support of healthy and productive aquatic ecosystems. In addition to ongoing operations, the Department will focus on the following plans for Science sub-activities in support of healthy and productive aquatic ecosystems during the current planning period.

Plans for 2006-2009 by Sub-activity
Plans Expected Results
Assessing the Impacts of Development on Aquatic Ecosystems
  • Provide advice on the Mackenzie Gas Pipeline Project to support decisions related to the environmental impact assessment, regulation (Fisheries Act) and monitoring; this will include delineating critical fish habitat in rivers and lakes draining into the Mackenzie River and undertaking a study of sensitive fish species
  • Delineate and map the habitats of the coastal Beaufort Sea and Mackenzie Delta, assess beluga whale habitat requirements in the eastern Beaufort Sea, and study the impacts of oil and gas exploration on ringed and bearded seals
  • In support of the Environmental Process Modernization Plan (EPMP), conduct a peer review of advice on the evidence linking the effects of human activities on fish habitat; also provide advice on the scientific foundation for the application of risk-management principles to the management of fish habitat
  • Increased use of scientific advice and supporting information related to the impacts of industrial activities on the aquatic environment
  • Increased science-based mitigation measures for human and industrial activities
Assessing Aquatic Ecosystems and Supporting Integrated Oceans Management
  • Provide advice to support knowledge requirements associated with the Oceans Action Plan (OAP); this will involve developing Ecosystem Overview and Assessment Reports and identifying ecologically and Biologically Significant Areas for each of the five Large Ocean Management Areas
  • Increased use of Science advice (e.g., data and modelling) by decision makers in the integrated management of Canada's oceans
Monitoring, Understanding and Predicting Variation and Change of Ocean Climate
  • Deliver a co-ordinated program for providing the data needed for oceans ecosystem assessments
  • Conduct research to understand the effects of climate change and climate variation on aquatic ecosystems
  • Apply operational models to the prediction of variation in ocean climate
  • Participate in International Polar Year with the objective of building on and supporting the Department's and the Government of Canada's knowledge requirements associated with climate change impacts and adaptation
  • Decision makers make increased use of forecast impacts of climate change on aquatic ecosystems
  • Policy makers make increased use of knowledge of oceans' influence on climate and climate change