Preventing aquatic invasive species from entering Canadian waters is vital to protecting our freshwater ecosystems. This year marked the fourth consecutive season that Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), in collaboration with the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), inspected and decontaminated watercraft to ensure they were free of Zebra Mussels and other aquatic invasive species, safeguarding our ecosystems, biodiversity, and economy.
Cod fishing has shaped life in Newfoundland and Labrador for generations. The Food Fishery plays a vital role in this tradition and reflects the province’s deep cultural connection with cod and the sea.
The world is increasingly dangerous and divided. Changes in the global trading system are causing massive disruptions and uncertainty for Canadians. The world has changed, and Canada’s economic strategy must change.
Canada’s marine species are a precious common resource for Canadians and Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) is committed to helping sustain and protect them, now and for the future.
In a rapidly changing and uncertain world, the Government of Canada is focused on protecting communities and the country, building the economy with major projects and millions of additional homes, and empowering Canadians with lower costs and new opportunities that will help people get ahead.
On October 29, Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) scientists presented a comprehensive update of the latest scientific knowledge of North Atlantic right whales (NARW) and their potential for recovery to stakeholders and interested Canadians.
From October 13-17, 2025, the Honourable Joanne Thompson, Minister of Fisheries, participated in multi-day tour of British Columbia and Yukon, engaging with Indigenous leaders, fishery stakeholders, and scientific experts on shared priorities in conservation, trade, reconciliation, and fisheries modernization.
Today, Gitxaała Nation and the Government of Canada are taking a united step to ensure these ecosystems remain healthy and abundant for the future, showcasing how Nation-to-Nation collaboration can achieve meaningful marine conservation. Chief Councillor Linda Innes of Gitxaała Nation and the Honourable Joanne Thompson, Minister of Fisheries, announced the establishment of the Banks Marine Refuge, a new protected area in Nłuut'iksgm Laxyuubm Gitxaała (sacred Gitxaała Territory) on the north coast of British Columbia.
Today, the President of the Haida Nation, Gaagwiis Jason Alsop, and the Minister of Fisheries, the Honourable Joanne Thompson, formally announced two marine refuges on Haida Gwaii: G̱aw Ḵáahlii and X̲aana K̲aahlii. The marine refuges will protect multiple species of salmon, sea birds and their habitat, and other important species such as herring and harbour seals.
Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) has successfully concluded its participation with the United States in Operation Sea Dog 2025, a multi-agency international enforcement initiative focused on marine border intelligence, fisheries compliance, and conservation.
