The Offshore Pacific Area of Interest was identified by Fisheries and Oceans Canada in 2017 as an area under consideration to become an Oceans Act MPA. This came as a result of the identification of Ecologically and Biologically Significant Areas (EBSAs), including seamounts and hydrothermal vents, in the Offshore Pacific Bioregion during 2016. Seamounts and hydrothermal vents are highly productive marine ecosystems, harboring unique species and having far reaching influences on the surrounding ocean. In late 2017, to protect these EBSAs, Fisheries and Oceans Canada implemented fisheries closures over certain regions of the AOI, with a primary focus on ensuring interim protection for unique seafloor features (i.e. seamounts and hydrothermal vents). While this fishing closure is encouraging, meaningful protection for this region must include regulations on fishing, mining, oil and gas, scientific research, vessel traffic, and tourism.
CPAWS is a member of the Offshore Pacific Advisory Committee (OPAC), which first met in September 2017. OPACs role is to provide advice regarding the social, ecological, cultural, and economic assessments of the AOI, and to provide input as DFO develops regulatory documents for the proposed MPA. CPAWS aims to ensure the MPA will represent meaningful protection, and will restrict more than just bottom-contact fishing at seamounts and hydrothermal vents.
Progress reports
By 2020, sustainably manage and protect marine and coastal ecosystems to avoid significant adverse impacts, including by strengthening their resilience, and take action for their restoration in order to achieve healthy and productive oceans
Type of commitment
- Large Marine Ecosystem approach
By 2020, conserve at least 10 per cent of coastal and marine areas, consistent with national and international law and based on the best available scientific information
Type of commitment
- Marine protected area with partial protection
2019
