Achieving NAFO Convention Objectives with a Precautionary Approach Framework

The Precautionary Approach Working Group (PA-WG) developed recommendations for designing a Precautionary Approach Framework that is expected to meet the objectives of the NAFO Convention. The objectives and general principles of the NAFO Convention can be achieved by a Precautionary Approach Framework in addition to other NAFO processes to minimize bycatch, catch by lost/abandoned gear, pollution and waste from fishing. The PA-WG recommends that the Precautionary Approach Framework should: 1) promote rebuilding of depleted stocks toward the stock biomass associated with maximum sustainable yield (BMSY), 2) account for scientific uncertainty through buffer reference points or other risk-based approaches, 3) develop limit reference points for stock biomass (Blim) and fishing mortality (Flim) that are consistent with each other, 4) Blim should be based on sustainability and reduced productivity where possible, and 5) reference points should be re-evaluated when the available information on productivity substantially changes, there is evidence of a productivity regime shift, or management procedures based on re-evaluated reference points are demonstrated to perform better for meeting NAFO’s objectives. All options considered for a revised Precautionary Approach Framework should be simulation tested to determine if management measures set in accordance with the framework are expected to achieve the following objectives: a very low risk of stock depletion (i.e., B<Blim), effectively rebuild stocks to BMSY, maintain stocks above BMSY more often than not, and maintain average catches of approximately MSY in the long-term.