Question Period Note: High winds delay opening of lobster fishing in Southwest Nova Scotia

High winds delay opening of lobster fishing in Southwest Nova Scotia

The opening of the lobster fishery for Lobster Fishing Areas (LFAs) 33 and 34 in southwest Nova Scotia happens on the last Monday of November every year, weather permitting.

This year the fishery was scheduled to open November 29th but forecasted high winds have delayed the start of the season.

Weather protocol

Fisheries and Oceans Canada is committed to assuring a safe opening day based on the forecasted weather and conditions.

A protocol has been developed in consultation with industry to provide licence holders and crew with a clear understanding of the rules surrounding the recommendation for a delay to the start of the season.

In addition to weather, industry representatives may consider other environmental conditions, such as sea state, and choose to vote on whether to implement a delay.

In particular, winds in excess of 26 knots automatically delayed the season opening this year.

Fishery value

The preliminary landings for the 2020-21 season from the two lobster fishing areas combined is in excess of 28,000 t with a preliminary value of $530 million.

The fishery employs over 4000 people annually as licence holders and crew members.

• The opening of the lobster fishery for Lobster Fishing Areas (LFAs) 33 and 34 in southwest Nova Scotia happens on the last Monday of November every year, weather permitting.
• This year the fishery was scheduled to open November 29th but forecasted high winds have delayed the start of the season.
• Fisheries and Oceans Canada is committed to assuring a safe opening day based on the forecasted weather and conditions. A protocol has been developed in consultation with industry to provide licence holders and crew with a clear understanding of the rules surrounding the recommendation for a delay to the start of the season.
• Winds in excess of 26 knots automatically delayed the season opening this year. Industry representatives may consider other environmental conditions, such as sea state, and choose to vote on whether to implement a delay.
• Four telephone calls have been held with industry representatives for each LFA to review the weather forecast.
• Calls are scheduled with members of both LFAs for Monday, November 29th, to review the weather forecast for a possible opening on December 1st.
• New for this fishing season, the Department provided flexibility of up to two days to open early in the event of an unfavourable weather forecast for the scheduled opening day.
• This flexibility was offered in response to an industry request following a nine-day delay to the opening of the LFA 34 lobster fishery last season.
• Industry representatives and departmental officials reviewed the forecast in the days leading up to the scheduled season opening but there have been no opportunities to open the fishery safely.

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