The Government of Canada (DFO) is launching a commercial fisheries pilot to control an invasive species threatening marine ecosystems in Southwest New Brunswick.
Fisheries and Oceans Canada has announced a one-year commercial fisheries pilot aimed at controlling the invasive European Green Crab in Southwest New Brunswick.
This invasive species disrupts marine ecosystems and negatively affects eel grass, dulse beds and shellfish, which are culturally, ecologically and economically important to the region.
“European Green Crab is a serious threat to local ecosystems and the shellfish fisheries that so many people rely on in Southwest New Brunswick,” said the Honourable Joanne Thompson, Minister of Fisheries.
“By opening this commercial fishery pilot, we are taking a practical step to reduce its presence and impact, while creating new economic opportunities for Indigenous communities and local harvesters.”
Ongoing battle
The commercial fisheries pilot is designed to mitigate damage to native ecosystems and shellfish fisheries, with clear licence conditions to minimize the risk of further spread of the invasive species.
It’s an initiative that reflects ongoing collaboration between DFO, harvesters, indigenous communities and other partners to detect, monitor and limit the spread of invasive species.
Harvested European Green Crab could used as bait in the lobster fishery and incorporated into products such as bioplastics and soil enrichment materials.
DFO notes that prevention is the most cost-effective approach to managing aquatic invasive species. The European Green Crab fishery reflects a balanced consideration of ecological, social and economic factors where eradication is no longer possible.
Eligible harvesters in Southwest New Brunswick are invited to apply for licences through Fisheries and Oceans Canada by emailing: DFO.MARRMSWNB-SONBGRMAR.MPO@dfo-mpo.gc.ca
The pilot commercial fishery for European Green Crab is expected to open in Spring 2026.
