Study: Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) Help Secure Seafood and Nutrition
A new study published in One Earth explores the connection between marine protected areas (MPAs) and human nutrition, concluding that MPAs can improve not only ocean health but also the well-being of coastal communities that depend on marine foods. According to the study, MPAs—specifically those that allow for regulated, sustainable fishing—can play a critical role […]
Large Marine Protected Areas Show Promise for Boosting Tuna Stocks Nearby
A growing body of research suggests that well-managed marine protected areas (MPAs) are not only vital sanctuaries for marine life but can also deliver tangible benefits for commercial fisheries operating nearby. A new study has found compelling evidence that large, fully protected MPAs are contributing to increased tuna catches just outside their no-fishing zones. Spillover […]
Study Confirms Marine Protected Areas Boost Fish Populations
A major study assessing California’s Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) has confirmed that when properly designed and enforced, MPAs significantly increase fish populations, particularly among species targeted by fisheries. The findings, published in Conservation Biology, provide important insights as British Columbia is looking to implement its own network of MPAs, called the Great Bear Sea Marine […]
Trawling vs. Trolling: What’s the Difference?
Although they sound similar, “trolling” and “trawling” are two very different methods for catching fish. Trolling and trawling differ in their techniques, equipment, targeted species, and impact on our environment and economy.
Two humpbacks tangled in fishing gear rescued
Rescuers found and freed humpback whales Raza and Mogul, tethered together in fishing gear, after a kayaker reported their plight.
Halibut Master Caught Fishing In Protected Glass Reef Fined $33,596
Commercial fisherman Brent Belveal landed a $33,596 fine for illegally operating his halibut vessel Gypsy Soul in the fragile and legally protected glass sponge reef near Bella Bella. The master of the Gypsy Soul had pled guilty in BC provincial court to charges of fishing illegally inside the Hecate Strait Queen Charlotte Sound Glass Sponge Reef Marine […]
New BC Marine Protected Area Safeguards Unique Hydrothermal Vents and Seamounts
In a landmark collaboration, First Nations along British Columbia’s coast and the Canadian government have announced the designation of the country’s largest marine protected area (MPA).
Unlocking Ocean Wealth: New Study Finds That Marine Protected Areas Boost Fisheries and Eco-Tourism
A new study has found that marine protected areas are key to boosting fisheries’ success and growing ecotourism opportunities.
Recently Discovered Rare Coral Reef on BC’s Central Coast is Now Protected
Lophelia reef in the Finlayson Channel is the only live coral reef in Canada’s Pacific.
How Marine Protected Areas Benefit Fisheries
MPAs present a science-backed solution that promises not only to protect marine biodiversity but also to enhance the productivity and sustainability of fisheries.