In June, fishery officers in NE NB inspected 180 lobster fishing area 23

The inspection conducted by fishery officers in northeastern New Brunswick in June focused on Lobster Fishing Area 23, which spans from Pointe Verte to Escuminac.

During the operation, 180 lobster vessels and 480 traps were examined to enforce fisheries management measures aimed at preserving the sustainability of the lobster population and ensuring fair practices in the industry. The results included:

- 19 cases are now under investigation for potential non-compliance issues.
- 21 written warnings were given out, serving as a reminder to adhere to the regulations.
- 4 fishers received tickets for a range of violations, such as:
   1. Catching lobsters below the mandatory minimum size, which helps maintain the stock's ability to reproduce.
   2. Having lobsters with eggs in their possession, which is crucial for the future of the species.
   3. Using traps without proper escape mechanisms that allow smaller or V-notched lobsters to exit, ensuring they can grow and contribute to the breeding population.
   4. Possessing lobster parts that have been separated from the thorax, which is against regulations for handling and conservation purposes.
   5. Incomplete tag registers and electronic logbooks, which are essential for monitoring and managing the fishery effectively.

The participation of three Fishery Guardians from the Esgenoopetitj First Nation played a significant role in the inspection, highlighting the collaborative efforts to maintain the health of the lobster fishery.

The public is encouraged to report any suspicious activities related to fisheries by following the provided link: https://ow.ly/xvZu50Wmgj3. This vigilance is crucial for the ongoing protection and sustainability of marine resources and the fishing industry as a whole.