The use of ELOGS will help the DFO to determine measures like licence conditions and annual quotas for species, and ensuring good fisheries management and protection across Canada.
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In a bid to modernize and streamline fisheries management, the Canadian government has announced the mandatory implementation of electronic logbooks (ELOGs) in selected fisheries.
The new system, set to be introduced in the Gulf and Quebec regions on January 1, 2025, and later in the Maritimes and Newfoundland and Labrador regions in the spring, will mean a shift from traditional paper-based logbooks.
According to Canada's Department of Fisheries and Oceans, the adoption of ELOGs is expected to improve the speed and accuracy of data collection from fishermen. The digital solution will facilitate near-real-time reporting, simplifying the process for the fishing sector, and enabling Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) to make informed decisions on licence conditions, quotas, and conservation measures.
"This digital solution makes catch reporting faster, easier and more efficient for harvesters – no more having to fill out paperwork. And having their catch data in one centralized place means that harvesters can easily review their past submissions at any time," the DFO stated in a press announcement.
The roll-out of mandatory ELOGs will follow a phased approach, with ongoing consultations involving fishermen and industry stakeholders. This strategy ensures that the transition is gradual and considerate of the diverse needs of Canada’s fisheries, the DFO said. Voluntary use of ELOGs in non-mandatory fisheries will continue, providing harvesters additional time to familiarize themselves with the technology.
DFO has been actively collaborating with partners through advisory committees to address concerns and facilitate the adoption of ELOGs.
Diane Lebouthillier, Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, emphasized the department’s commitment to supporting fish harvesters through this transition.
“I am proud of my department’s progress on the collection of catch information through more modern ELOGs. With ELOGs, harvesters can submit their data in near-real time, helping DFO to get accurate, effective, and consistent catch data from across the country. This means better business and fisheries management, conservation, and protection of our precious resources," she said.
