PROVINCE RELEASES NEW PROVINCIAL FISHERIES MANAGEMENT PLAN

The new Provincial Fisheries Management Plan released today outlines the Government of Saskatchewan's plan for maintaining healthy, sustainable fish populations and habitat that provide diverse benefits for Saskatchewan people.

"Our plan will guide fisheries management in Saskatchewan over the next decade and beyond," Environment Minister Nancy Heppner said. "It will build on partnerships and ensure our fisheries are used in a sustainable way, promoting economic and social growth for the benefit of the people of Saskatchewan."

Over the past three years, the Ministry of Environment has gathered the views of the public, First Nations and Métis, communities, businesses and organizations across the province on the future of fisheries management in Saskatchewan.

"The Provincial Fisheries Management Plan will maintain the traditional and cultural activities we enjoy today, while ensuring sustainable fish stocks," Heppner said.

The plan includes ten principles to provide guidance on how the plan will be implemented and identifies outcomes and objectives. The key challenges to achieving these objectives are identified and a number of actions and management approaches are recommended.

Performance indicators are identified in the plan to help measure the government's success in achieving plan outcomes. Regular review of the progress in implementing the plan and its impact to the fishery will result in ongoing evaluation of, and improvement to, policies, procedures and legislation.

The plan is available at www.environment.gov.sk.ca/fisheriesmanagementplan.

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For more information, contact:

Michele McEachern
Environment
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0412
Email: michele.mceachern@gov.sk.ca