Court acknowledges important role of stewardship programs in conservation

News Release

NR-NL-06-18

May 31, 2006

Stephenville -- Sentences for illegal salmon fishing handed down in provincial court have recognized the important role of community groups and programs in promoting conservation of inland resources.

Lawrence Bennett, of St. Georges, Port au Port Peninsula, was recently convicted of jigging salmon in inland waters. The judged issued a $500 fine and ordered the amount payable to the Bay St. George Stewardship Initiative Program.

On July 8, 2005, a fishery guardian of the Stephenville Detachment staked out a section of Flat Bay Brook, a scheduled salmon river near the community of St. Georges and observed Mr. Bennett in the brook, in a pool of water located below a trestle. With the aid of snorkelling goggles, Mr. Bennett was submerging below the surface and attempting to jig fish using a fishing rod and lure.

The fishery guardian witnessed Mr. Bennett jig and land a salmon on the bank of the brook, then attempt to jig more fish. With the assistance of other fishery guardians on surveillance in the area at the time, Mr. Bennett was apprehended and charged.

Other recent convictions in provincial court in Stephenville for illegal salmon fishing also resulted in sentences where the judge ordered fines payable to the Bay St. George Stewardship Initiative Program.

Fisheries and Oceans Canada supports successful stewardship programs throughout the province in their efforts to raise awareness of conservation. DFO reminds the public that protecting salmon stocks is important to sustaining the resource for future generations to enjoy. Buying or possessing illegally caught salmon is a crime punishable by law.

For more information:

Sam Whiffen
Communications Officer
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
(709) 772-7631

Kim Penney
Communications Officer
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
(709) 772-7629

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Court acknowledges important role of stewardship programs in conservation

News Release

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