New initiative to reduce threats the whales in Canada

Protecting whales and supporting fisheries: New initiative to reduce threats in Canada

Sheryl Fink | December 13, 2024

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The ocean is home to some of the most magnificent creatures on Earth, yet many of them are under threat. For species like the North Atlantic right whale, fin whale, blue whale, and sei whale, the dangers posed by human activity—particularly entanglement in fishing gear and collisions with vessels—have brought them closer to extinction. In an effort to turn the tide for these vulnerable species, IFAW has launched a new project to reduce these threats through innovative technology and strong partnerships in Canada.

Over a two-year timeframe, this project brings together key stakeholders including the Acadian Crabbers Association, Blue Ocean Gear, and the Fishing Gear Coalition of Atlantic Canada. Together, we aim to work with snow crab harvesters, First Nations communities, mariners, and the broader public to raise awareness and adopt practical solutions to protect whales while supporting local fisheries.

Reducing risks with Smart Buoy technology

Entanglement in traditional fishing gear, such as lobster and crab traps, is a leading cause of injury and death for whales. For the critically endangered North Atlantic right whale, entanglement in fishing gear can lead to prolonged suffering and, too often, death. IFAW-led research found that between 2003 and 2018, 90% of North Atlantic right whale deaths with a known cause were linked to entanglement or vessel strikes. Each loss is a devastating blow to a population already teetering on the edge of survival.

To address this, IFAW and our partners are testing Smart Buoy technology in the Gulf of St. Lawrence. This technology may be easier for fishers to understand and adopt compared to fully ropeless gear, making it an important first step toward safer waters for whales. Smart Buoys can be used with ropeless gear to build confidence in finding gear in fog or inclement weather. They can also be used with traditional gear to notify a fisher quickly in the event of a whale entanglement, gear movement and loss due to storms, or buoys being cut loose by another vessel and creating ghost gear.

Through this project, IFAW aims to increase the acceptance and adoption of this technology among snow crab harvesters in Canada, demonstrating how such innovations can allow fishers to continue fishing for their livelihoods while reducing the risks to whales. Our goal is that by the end of the project in 2026, more fishers in the Gulf of St. Lawrence will be using whale-friendly fishing gear, safeguarding marine species, and maintaining their economic wellbeing.

Edgetech and smart buoys in use on a fishing vessel in Sandwich, MA. Photo: © Rob Martin

Preventing vessel strikes through education and outreach

In addition to the risks posed by fishing gear, whales face the constant danger of vessel collisions. IFAW is working to reduce these threats by educating mariners on the importance of reporting whale sightings and slowing down when whales are present. A key tool in this effort is our Whale Alert app, which allows mariners to track whale sightings in real time and take precautions to avoid collisions.

Outreach efforts are targeting recreational boaters and commercial mariners in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, encouraging them to adopt best practices for reducing vessel strikes. By raising awareness about the risks vessels pose and promoting the use of the Whale Alert app, we hope to increase reporting and ensure that mariners are part of the solution in protecting endangered whales.

A collaborative approach for long-term change

At the heart of this project is the belief that protecting whales and supporting fisheries can go hand in hand. Fishing closures due to whale protections have taken a heavy toll on Canadian fishers and their communities. However, many harvesters recognise the risks traditional fishing gear poses to whales and are open to exploring new technologies that offer a path forward. The problem is complex and must be met with fresh thinking and bold action.

Through collaboration with snow crab harvesters, First Nations communities, and the fishing industry, this project will foster the relationships needed to develop and implement sustainable solutions. IFAW and our partners, including Blue Ocean Gear, the Acadian Crabbers Association, and the Fishing Gear Coalition of Atlantic Canada, are crucial in helping to bridge the gap between conservation and industry. Together, we can find solutions that ensure fishers stay on the water while whales remain safe.

By 2026, we aim to have made significant progress in reducing the threats whales face in Canadian waters. With the support of key stakeholders and the dedication of fishers, we can protect some of the ocean’s most vulnerable species and preserve healthy marine ecosystems for generations to come.

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Sheryl Fink

Campaign Director - Canadian Wildlife

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