MSC SUSTAINABLE FISHERIES CERTIFICATION

Off-Site Surveillance Visit - Report for OCI Grand Bank Yellowtail

Flounder Trawl Fishery

1st Surveillance Audit

December 2016

Certificate Code F-ACO-0001

Prepared For: Ocean Choice International
Prepared By: Acoura Marine
Authors: Paul Knapman, Bruce Atkinson and Rob Blyth-Skyrme

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Assessment Data Sheet

Fishery name OCI Grand Bank Yellowtail Flounder Trawl

Species and Stock 3LNO yellowtail flounder (Limanda ferruginea) stock

Date certified 28th October 2015 Date of expiry 27th October 2020

Surveillance level and type Level 4 – Offsite Surveillance

Date of surveillance audit 6th December 2016

Surveillance stage (tick one) 1st Surveillance 

2nd Surveillance

3rd Surveillance

4th Surveillance

Other (expedited etc.)

Surveillance team Lead auditor: Paul Knapman (P3)

Auditors: Bruce Atkinson (P1) & Rob Blyth-Skyrme (P2)

CAB name Acoura Marine

CAB contact details Address 6 Redheughs Rigg

Edinburgh
EH12 9DQ

Phone/Fax 0131 335 6662

Email fisheries@acoura.com

Contact name(s) Polly Burns

Client contact details Address Ocean Choice International

1315 Topsail Road
PO Box 8274
Station A
St John's, NL
A1B 3N4, Canada

Phone/Fax (709) 782-6244

Email gviscount@oceanchoice.com

Contact name(s) Greg Viscount

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Contents
1 Introduction ................................................................................................................................... 4
1.1 Scope of Surveillance ............................................................................................................. 4
1.2 Aims of the Surveillance .......................................................................................................... 4
1.3 Certificate Holder Details ........................................................................................................ 4
2 Surveillance Process .................................................................................................................... 5
2.1 Findings of the original assessment ........................................................................................ 5
2.2 Surveillance Activity ................................................................................................................ 5
2.2.1 Surveillance team details ................................................................................................ 5
2.2.2 Date & Location of surveillance audit .............................................................................. 6
2.2.3 Stakeholder consultation & meetings .............................................................................. 6
2.2.4 What was inspected ........................................................................................................ 6
2.2.5 Stakeholder Consultation ................................................................................................ 6
2.3 Surveillance Standards ........................................................................................................... 6
2.3.1 MSC Standards, Requirements and Guidance used ...................................................... 6
2.3.2 Confirmation that destructive fishing practices or controversial unilateral exemptions
have not been introduced ................................................................................................................ 6
3 Updated Fishery Background ...................................................................................................... 7
3.1 Changes in the management system ..................................................................................... 7
3.2 Changes in relevant regulations.............................................................................................. 8
3.3 Changes to personnel involved in science, management or industry..................................... 8
3.4 Compliance and Enforcement ................................................................................................. 8
3.5 Changes to scientific base of information including stock assessments ................................ 8
3.6 Any developments or changes within the fishery which impact traceability or the ability to
segregate between fish from the UoC and fish from outside the UoC (non-certified fish). ................ 8
3.7 TAC and catch data ................................................................................................................ 8
3.8 Summary of Assessment Conditions ...................................................................................... 9
4 Results ......................................................................................................................................... 10
4.1 Condition 1 ............................................................................................................................ 10
5 Conclusion ................................................................................................................................... 10
5.1 Summary of findings ............................................................................................................. 10
6 References ................................................................................................................................... 11
Appendix 1 – Re-scoring evaluation tables ....................................................................................... 12
Appendix 2 - Stakeholder submissions ............................................................................................. 14
Appendix 3 - Surveillance audit information...................................................................................... 15
Appendix 4 - Additional detail on conditions/ actions/ results ........................................................... 24
Appendix 5 - Revised Surveillance Program .................................................................................... 26

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1 Introduction
1.1 Scope of Surveillance
This report outlines the findings of the 1st Annual Surveillance of the re-assessed OCI Grand Bank
Yellowtail Flounder Trawl fishery. The scope of the certified fishery and therefore of this surveillance is
specified in the Unit of Certification (UoC) set out below:
UoC 1

Species: Yellowtail Flounder (Limanda ferruginea)

Geographical area: Grand Bank, North Atlantic Fisheries Organisation (NAFO) Divisions 3L,
3N & 3O
Method of capture: Demersal trawl
Stock: 3LNO yellowtail flounder stock
Management System: NAFO coordinates international management of fisheries catching
yellowtail flounder from the 3LNO stock, while Fisheries and Oceans
Canada (DFO) undertakes the management of the Canadian Yellowtail
Flounder Trawl fishery, through their Newfoundland and Labrador
Region.
Client Group: Ocean Choice International (OCI)

1.2 Aims of the Surveillance

The purpose of the annual Surveillance Report is fourfold:
1. to establish and report on whether or not there have been any material changes to the
circumstances and practices affecting the original complying assessment of the fishery;
2. to monitor the progress made to improve those practices that have been scored as below
“good practice” (a score of 80 or above) but above “minimum acceptable practice” (a score of
60 or above) – as captured in any “conditions” raised and described in the Public Report and
in the corresponding Action Plan drawn up by the client;
3. to monitor any actions taken in response to any (non-binding) “recommendations” made in
the Public Report;
4. to re-score any Performance Indicators (PIs) where practice or circumstances have materially
changed during the intervening year, focusing on those PIs that form the basis of any
“conditions” raised.
Please note: The primary focus of this surveillance audit is assess changes made in the previous year.
For a complete picture, this report should be read in conjunction with the Public Certification Report for
this fishery assessment which can be found here:
https://fisheries.msc.org/en/fisheries/oci-grand-bank-yellowtail-flounder-trawl/@@assessments

1.3 Certificate Holder Details

Ocean Choice International (OCI). http://oceanchoice.com/corporate-information is based in
Newfoundland and Labrador with operations in the province as well as in Nova Scotia and Prince
Edward Island. They are a fully integrated company, with six vessels in its fleet and six processing
facilities. OCI holds the majority (approx. 91%) of the Canadian allocation for the 3LNO yellowtail
flounder stock TAC.

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2 Surveillance Process
2.1 Findings of the original assessment
As a result of the assessment, one condition of certification was raised by the assessment team, and
maintenance of the MSC certificate is contingent on the OCI Grand Bank Yellowtail Flounder Trawl
fishery moving to comply with this condition within the time-scale set at the time the certificate was
issued.

2.2 Surveillance Activity

2.2.1 Surveillance team details

This off-site surveillance visit was carried out by Paul Knapman, Bruce Atkinson and Rob Blyth-Skyrme.
The Team Leader (TL) was Paul Knapman.
Paul Knapman (TL & P3) Paul is based in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada and has recently returned to
Fisheries Consultancy.
He was the General Manager of Intertek Fisheries Certification a Conformity Assessment Body (CAB)
that focused their work on Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) fisheries and chain of custody
assessment / certification. He has extensive experience of MSC related work having been the Lead
Assessor / Auditor and/or technical reviewer for 50+ client fisheries throughout the world.
He was previously Head of an inshore fisheries management organization in the UK, a senior policy
advisor to the UK government on fisheries and environmental issues, a British Fisheries Officer and a
fisheries consultant to clients in Europe and Canada.
Paul was a team member for the initial assessment of this fishery and provided technical oversight for
the subsequent annual audits and re-assessment.
Bruce Atkinson (P1) Mr. Atkinson is a retired fisheries biologist with more than 40 years' experience
primarily related to the biology, life history and assessment of groundfish, but also with experience
related to pelagic fishes and shellfish. His extended career with Canada’s Department of Fisheries and
Oceans (DFO) also included management positions within Science culminating in the position of
Regional Director of Science and Oceans sectors in Newfoundland and Labrador. He participated in
the Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organization (NAFO) for many years and was the Head of the
Canadian Delegation to the Scientific Council from 2000-2004. Since retirement in 2005, he has
maintained a keen interest in fisheries. He served on an Expert Panel that reviewed the performance
of NEAFC (North East Atlantic Fisheries Commission) in relation to its mandated responsibilities,
participated in regional groundfish assessments carried out by DFO in Newfoundland and Labrador as
rapporteur, served as a reviewer of fisheries related proposals for European Union Framework
Programme (FP7) and Horizon 2000 funding, chaired an Expert Panel that prepared a report on the
Impacts of EU Framework Programmes (2000-2010) and Prospects for Research and Innovation in
Fisheries and Aquaculture, served on an Expert Panel charged with developing an Outreach Strategy
to better familiarize the EU public with Framework Programme benefits (2011-2012), served as a
member of the Assessment Team for assessment of the Ocean Choice International Yellowtail Flounder
Trawl Fishery against the MSC Principles and Criteria serving as lead for assessment of Principle 1 as
well as being a member of the team conducting the subsequent annual audits and the 2014/2015
reassessment of this fishery, served as Chair of an Expert Panel that conducted a review of the methods
of catch estimation of NAFO stocks by the NAFO Scientific Council as well as carrying out other
fisheries related work under contract including 4 MSC peer reviews of fisheries as well as the conduct
of 15 MSC CoC audits. He is currently a member of the COSEWIC (Committee on the Status of
Endangered Wildlife in Canada) Marine Fishes Specialist Subcommittee.
Bruce was a member for the initial assessment team, the subsequent audit teams and the re-
assessment team for this fishery.
Rob Blyth-Skyrme (P2) Dr Rob Blyth-Skyrme started his career in commercial aquaculture, but
subsequently shifted his focus to the sustainable management of wild fisheries. After his PhD he went
to the Eastern Sea Fisheries Joint Committee, one of the largest inshore fisheries management bodies
in England, where he became the Deputy Chief Fishery Officer. He then moved to Natural England, the
statutory adviser to UK Government on nature conservation in English waters, to lead the team dealing

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with fisheries policy, science and nationally significant fisheries and environmental casework. Rob now
runs Ichthys Marine Ecological Consulting Ltd., a marine fisheries and environmental consultancy. As
well as carrying out general consultancy, he has undertaken all facets of MSC work as a lead assessor,
expert team member and peer reviewer across a wide range of fisheries, including those targeting
highly migratory species. Rob is a member of the MSC’s Peer Review College, and has completed the
MSC v1.3 and v2.0 training modules.
Rob was an audit team member for this fishery when it was initially certified and Lead Assessor and P2
team member for the re-assessment of the fishery.

2.2.2 Date & Location of surveillance audit

The surveillance audit was held remotely on the 7th December 2016 via a conference call.

2.2.3 Stakeholder consultation & meetings

7th December 2016, Conference call.
Name Organisation Role
Paul Knapman Acoura Audit Team Member Team Lead and P3 Specialist
Bruce Atkinson Acoura Audit Team Member P1 Specialist
Rob Blyth-Skyrme Acoura Audit Team Member P2 Specialist
Greg Viscount OCI General Manager
Loyola Sullivan OCI VP Resource Management and
Sustainability
Dawn Parsons DFO Biologist

2.2.4 What was inspected

The audit team inspected the scientific base of information and stock assessment, changes to the
fishery and its management, e.g., legislation and regulations, personnel changes within the science and
management structure and within the industry, conformity with regulations, retained and bycatch
species, fishery footprint, and any changes that might affect traceability within the fishery.

2.2.5 Stakeholder Consultation

A total of 23 stakeholder organisations and individuals having relevant interest in the assessment were
identified and consulted during this surveillance audit. The interest of others not appearing on this list
was solicited through the postings on the MSC website.

2.3 Surveillance Standards

2.3.1 MSC Standards, Requirements and Guidance used

This surveillance audit was carried out according to the MSC Fisheries Certification Requirements FAM
1.3 using process v2.0.

2.3.2 Confirmation that destructive fishing practices or controversial unilateral

exemptions have not been introduced
There were no reports or evidence provided during the surveillance audit to suggest that destructive
practices or unilateral exemptions have been introduced within the fishery during the audit period.

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3 Updated Fishery Background

In October 2016, OCI added two additional vessels – Fukuyoshi-Maru68 and Katsheshuk II - to the fleet
prosecuting the yellowtail fishery. Fukuyoshi Maru68 has been added as part of a joint business venture
and the Katsheshuk II is an ex shrimp vessel, owned by OCI, that is currently being refitted with the
expectation that it will enter the fishery in early 2017. Both new vessels are fitted with the “Golden Top”
design of trawl, which is a conventional otter trawl fitted with sweeps and rockhopper disks.

The audit team understood that the Katsheshuk II will be crewed and skippered by OCI personnel with
experience in the yellowtail flounder fishery, and there is therefore the expectation that the vessel will
follow existing patterns of exploitation. OCI has provided support to the crew of the Fukuyoshi-Maru68
to assist their entry to the fishery, and the vessel has been fishing in the same region as the existing
OCI vessels targeting yellowtail flounder, although it is limited to waters outside the Canadian 200 nm
EEZ (Greg Viscount (OCI) pers. comm.).

In the last quarter of 2016, the Fukuyoshi-Maru68 caught 1,350 t of yellowtail flounder from an allocation
of 1,600 t (Greg Viscount (OCI) pers. comm.). Bycatch data and data showing the spatial distribution of
fishing activity for this vessel are not yet available, but there is no reason to expect any significant
difference between the Fukuyoshi-Maru68 and the OCI vessels. If similar arrangements are put in place
in the future, the audit team requires the client to provide catch data and spatial data on effort to be
made available for all vessels.

For the most recent 12 months, catch data show the fishery is performing within the 15% and 4%
bycatch allowances (DFO 2012) that apply to American plaice and Atlantic cod, respectively (Table 3.1-
1).

Table 3.1-1: Catch data for the OCI Grand Bank yellowtail flounder trawl fishery, 1/11/2015 –
31/10/2016

Catch Catch
Species
(t) (as % of total)
Yellowtail flounder 6,508.4 87.25
American plaice 723.3 9.70
Skate (discarded) 118.6 1.59
Cod, Atlantic 83.5 1.12
Halibut 13.9 0.19
Greysole/witch 11.0 0.15
Haddock 1.1 0.01
Redfish 0.04 0.00
Monkfish (American angler) 0.03 0.00
Total 7,459.9 100.00

Data showing the spatial distribution of fishing activity for the OCI fleet were presented to the Year 1
Audit Team. However, given their commercial sensitivity, a confidentiality agreement has been sought
from the MSC. In the last year, the OCI vessels worked in the same or very similar areas of the Grand
Bank as those worked in previous years and presented in the 2015 fishery reassessment report (Blyth-
Skyrme et al. 2015).

An extension of scope exercise was undertaken in October 2016 by Acoura Marine that confirmed the
addition of the two vessels to the certification (https://fisheries.msc.org/en/fisheries/oci-grand-bank-
yellowtail-flounder-trawl/@@certificates.)

3.1 Changes in the management system

There were no reported changes in the management system during the auditing period.

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3.2 Changes in relevant regulations

There were no reported changes in the regulations during the auditing period.

3.3 Changes to personnel involved in science, management or industry

There were no reported changes in the scientific personnel involved in the data collection, analyses or
assessment of this resource.

3.4 Compliance and Enforcement

There no reported instances of non-compliance within the fishery.

3.5 Changes to scientific base of information including stock assessments

The most recent assessment was carried out by Scientific Council of NAFO in June, 2015 (Maddock
Parsons et al. 2015). The results indicated that fishing at 85% F msy in 2016 and 2017 would result in
yields of 24,910 t and 22,790 t respectively and the risk of biomass (B) being less that B msy at the
beginning of 2016, 2017 and 2018 was less than 1% in each year (NAFO 2015). The overall conclusion
of Scientific Council was that "Based on recent catch levels, fishing mortality up to 85% F msy
corresponding to a catch of 26,300 t in 2016 and 23,600 t in 2017 has low risk (5%) of exceeding F lim,
and is projected to maintain the stock well above Bmsy."
The quotas for 2016 and 2017 were set below these, at 17,000 t annually for both 2016 and 2017
(https://www.nafo.int/Portals/0/PDFs/Quotas/2016.pdf?ver=2016-02-16-075316-210).
Scientific Council specifically noted that the current TAC is only set for 2016 and 2017 whereas the next
full assessment is not scheduled until 2018. SC noted that further discussion with the Fisheries
Commission (FC) would be required to determine whether a full assessment will be necessary in 2017.
The FC request for advice in 2017 (NAFO 2016) does not make any specific requests to SC regarding
yellowtail flounder for 2017.
Reference points remain set at Blim = 30% Bmsy and Flim = Fmsy.

3.6 Any developments or changes within the fishery which impact traceability
or the ability to segregate between fish from the UoC and fish from
outside the UoC (non-certified fish).
The fisheries certificate extends to the point of landing. The main port of landing is now Harbour Grace
(Greg Viscount (OCI) pers. comm.) All the vessels must hail in and out and are subject to dockside
monitoring.
The new vessels are subject to the same management requirements that ensure no mixing of certified
and un-certified yellowtail flounder at sea.

3.7 TAC and catch data

Table 3.7-1 TAC and Catch Data

TAC Year 2016 Amount 17,000 mt

UoA share of TAC Year 2016 Amount 14,184 mt
UoC share of TAC Year 2016 Amount 14,184 mt
Total green weight Year (most recent) 2015 Amount 2,298 mt
catch by UoC
Year (second most recent) 2014 Amount 6,802 mt

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3.8 Summary of Assessment Conditions

Table 3.8-1 Summary of Assessment Conditions

Condition Performance Status PI original PI revised

number indicator (PI) score score
1 3.2.4 Closed this audit 70 80
(Research Plan)

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4 Results
4.1 Condition 1

PI number Scoring Issue text Score

SIa, SG 80 – A research plan
provides the management
system with a strategic approach
Performance
PI 3.2.4 to research and reliable and 70
Indicator& Score
timely information sufficient to
achieve the objectives consistent
with MSC’s Principles 1 and 2.
By the end of the first year of certification, the SG 80 scoring requirements for PI
3.2.4 must be met in full. This will be achieved when it has been demonstrated
Condition
that: SIa, SG 80 – “A research plan provides the management system with a
strategic approach to research and reliable and timely information sufficient to
achieve the objectives consistent with MSC’s Principles 1 and 2.”

Year 1:
Milestones
The client will provide evidence to demonstrate that the SG 80 requirement of PI
3.2.4, SIa is met.

The client (in cooperation with DFO) will: Year 1:

Client action plan The client will engage DFO to document the existing and planned research
activities related to the stock and ecosystem of the yellowtail flounder fishery
under assessment.

The client provided an initial submission with a list of DFO research projects and
priorities. The audit team highlighted that this did not meet their expectations for
a strategic plan. Following discussion between the client and DFO within the
audit team’s reporting period, a revised research plan was provided to the audit
Progress on
team that clearly showed a strategic approach. As a result the audit team consider
condition
the SG80 requirements of PI 3.2.4 have been met.
Year 1
The plan is included in Appendix 4 of this report.
The DFO confirmed their intent to include the new research plan at the next IFMP
update.

Status of The condition is met and closed. A revised scoring rationale is provided in
condition Appendix 1 of this report.

5 Conclusion
5.1 Summary of findings
The single condition of certification has been met and closed out at this audit.
In the latter part of 2016, OCI entered into a joint venture that resulted in a Japanese vessel fishing an
allocation of the OCI yellowtail flounder quota beyond the 200 nm mile limit. If similar arrangements are
put in place in the future, the audit team requires the client to provide catch data and spatial data on
effort to be made available for all vessels. This information will be subject to confidentiality
arrangements.
The fishery continues to meet MSC requirements and remains certified.

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6 References
Blyth-Skyrme, R., Atkinson, B. & J. Angel (2015). Public certification report, MSC sustainable fisheries
certification, OCI Grand Bank yellowtail flounder trawl fishery. Acoura Marine Ltd. Edinburgh, 205 pp.
DFO 2012. Integrated fisheries management plan (IFMP) for NAFO Division 3LNO yellowtail flounder
(Limanda ferruginea). DFO (unpublished), but summary available here: http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fm-
gp/peches-fisheries/ifmp-gmp/groundfish-poisson-fond/yellowtail-limande-div3LNO-eng.htm.
Maddock Parsons, D., J. Morgan, D. Power, and B. Healey. 2015. Assessment of NAFO Div. 3LNO
Yellowtail Flounder. NAFO SCR Doc. 15/029. Serial No. N6453:64 p.
NAFO. 2015. Report of the Scientific Council Meeting 29 May-11 June 2015. Halifax, Nova Scotia.
NAFO SCS Doc. 15-12 (Revised). Serial No. N6469:233 p.
NAFO. 2016. Fisheries Commission’s Request for Scientific Advice on Management in 2018 and
Beyond of Certain Stocks in Subareas 2, 3 and 4 and Other Matters. NAFO/FC Doc. 16/16. Serial No.
N6627:5 p.

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Appendix 1 – Re-scoring evaluation tables

The following table is taken from the Public Certification Report (PCR) and a revised scoring rationale
provided in blue text.

PI 3.2.4 The fishery has a research plan that addresses the information needs of management

Scoring Issue SG 60 SG 80 SG 100

a A comprehensive research plan
A research plan provides
provides the management
the management system
Research is undertaken, system with a coherent and
Guidepost

with a strategic approach

as required, to achieve strategic approach to research
to research and reliable
the objectives consistent across P1, P2 and P3, and
and timely information
with MSC’s Principles 1 reliable and timely information
sufficient to achieve the
and 2. sufficient to achieve the
objectives consistent with
objectives consistent with
MSC’s Principles 1 and 2.
MSC’s Principles 1 and 2.
Met? Y NY N
Research and data analyses have been conducted on 3LNO yellowtail flounder for many
years. The focus of the research has been the development of a knowledge base
sufficient to support management of the commercial harvest. Foremost among current
work is the routine gathering and analyses of information on stock abundance and trends
leading to a full scientific assessment of the stock by the NAFO Scientific Council every
three years, with an interim review in intermediate years. Additional research on such
things as age and growth, maturity, fecundity and reproductive potential is being
conducted, mainly by Canadian scientists but with the collaboration of international
colleagues.
For Principle 2, research has been conducted to identify areas of the oceans and coasts
that are considered to be ecologically or biologically significant (EBSAs) (DFO 2007b).
Separately, the NAFO Scientific Council Working Group on Ecosystem Science and
Assessment (WGESA) is focused on work intended to advance the “Roadmap for
developing an ecosystem approach to fisheries (EAF) for NAFO” as well as conducting
work intended to address specific requests from Scientific Council and/or Fisheries
Justification

Commission. Accordingly, at its June 2013 meeting, Scientific Council outlined that the
WG should focus on such things as identification and mapping of sensitive species and
habitats and appropriate ecosystem-based management areas, an update of recent and
relevant research related to status, functioning and dynamics of ecosystems in the NAFO
areas as well as on recent and relevant research related to the application of ecosystem
knowledge for fisheries management in the NAFO area. A full summary of the work of
the WG is contained in NAFO 2013b.
The research conducted by Walsh et al. (2001) resulted in the conclusion that the
physical bounds of the yellowtail flounder nursery area could be defined with some
certainty
All of the research is aimed at providing information to allow management of the fishery
in a manner consistent with MSC’s Principles 1 and 2. However, there is not a written
document that includes a specific research plan for the fishery under assessment as
required by CB4.10.3 of the MSC CR (MSC 2013b). The research has been set out in a
DFO research plan that provides a strategic approach to its implementation. DFO intends
to include the research plan in the IFMP at its next update.
The fishery therefore does not meets the SG 80 level of performance for this SI. , and a
Condition of Certification (#1) is introduced.

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PI 3.2.4 The fishery has a research plan that addresses the information needs of management

b Research plan and results are

Guidepost Research results are
Research results are
disseminated to all interested
disseminated to all
available to interested parties in a timely fashion and
interested parties in a
parties. are widely and publicly
timely fashion.
available.
Met? Y Y N

Research results are widely disseminated in a timely fashion through the NAFO
publication process and/or in the primary literature. The publications are readily available
Justification

to all interested parties.

The fishery therefore meets the 80 scoring guidepost but cannot meet the SG100 level
of performance because there is no fully comprehensive research plan that provides the
management system with a coherent and strategic approach to research across P1, P2
and P3. A score of 80 is therefore awarded for this SI.
DFO 2007b, MSC 2013b, NAFO 2013b, Walsh et al. 2001.
The cited references can be found in the PCR at:
References https://fisheries.msc.org/en/fisheries/oci-grand-bank-yellowtail-flounder-
trawl/@@assessments

OVERALL PERFORMANCE INDICATOR SCORE: 7080

CONDITION NUMBER (if relevant): 1

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Appendix 2 - Stakeholder submissions

No stakeholder submissions were received for this audit.

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Appendix 3 - Surveillance audit information

The following submission was provided by the client:

OCEAN CHOICE INTERNATIONAL L.P.

Annual Audit Report

Grand Bank Yellowtail Flounder

Certificate No. F-ACO-0001

November 1, 2015 to October 31, 2016

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Introduction
In October 2010, the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certified the Ocean Choice Iinternational (OCI)
Grand Bank Yellowtail Flounder Trawl fishery had been assessed and in conformity with the
requirements of the MSC Principles and Criteria for Sustainable Fishing. The certification body for this
assessment was Moody Marine Ltd. The period of certification is from October 28, 2010 to October 27,
2015. In October 2015 the fishery was subject to re-assessment by Acoura Marine Ltd. and was again
certified as compliant with the MSC Fisheries Standard. The current period of certification is from
Octpber 28, 2015 to October 27, 2020.
As part of the ongoing certification during this period, the fishery is subject to an annual surveillance
audit wherein the certification body seeks client and stakeholder views about the fishery, its
performance in relation to conditions of certification and issues relevant to MSC principles and criteria
for sustainable fishing.
Previously completed and issued annual survelliance audit reports are available on the MSC website.

Harvesting Report
OCI continued 2016 harvesting of Yellowtail Flounder in NAFO Divisions 3LNO utilizing the vessels
Aqviq and Kinguk and Ocean Breaker and adding two additional vessels, Fukuyoshi-Maru68 and
Katsheshuk II. The fishery continues to be prosecuted in the same fishing area using the same gear
type as in previous years. OCI continues to refrain from harvesting activities during the Yellowtail
spawning period.
In the period October 28, 2015 to October 31, 2016 landings of Yellowtail amounted to 7,341 Metric
Tonnes.
The incidence of bycatch in the Yellowtail Fishery continues to be within established limits. In particular,
American Plaice bycatch which is limited to 15%, was 11.11% of the Yellowtail landings and Cod which
is limited to 4%, amounted to 1.28% of Yellowtail landings in the period.
The full report of landings, including retained and discarded species, from DFO is attached as Appendix
A.

The Yellowtail fishing activities conducted since certification has not produced any significant events in
relation to the MSC certification or the principles of sustainable fishing.

Processing Report
The harvesting of Yellowtail is conducted on trips up to 30 days at a time and includes processing at
sea of frozen whole round and frozen headed & gutted products. Smaller sizes, under 450 grams are
sold in the Whole Round or Headed and Gutted form. Larger size Yellowtail, over 450 grams, is held
for processing to fillet form at our processing facility in Fortune. The Fortune plant meets the Chain of
Custody requirements for MSC and has been issued a Chain of Custody Certificate.

Current Stock State

NAFO Scientific Council advice and recommendation for Yellowtail Flounder in Divisions 3LNO for 2016
and 2017 can be found on the NAFO web site at
https://www.nafo.int/Portals/0/PDFs/Advice/2015/YT3LNO_2015.pdf?ver=2016-06-01-130457-273.
On stock status the SC report states “The stock has steadily increased since 1994 and is now well
above Bmsy.”
The report is attached as Appendix B.

Conditions for Continued Certification

The assessment of the OCI Yellowtail fishery in 2015 resulted in one condition in relation to
PI 3.2.4 – The fishery has a research plan that addresses the information needs of
management. DFO has prepared a listing of 3LNO Yellowtail Research Activities and are in
the process of preparing their priorities and plan.

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Appendix A
Yellowtail Flounder Catch Report November 1, 2015 to October 31, 2016

Quota Year Dir. Species Name Species Name Catch Month Unit Wt. Landed RW Discards Total % of Total % of YT

2015 Yellowtail flounder Cod, Atlantic December Kilos 2,694 -

2015 Yellowtail flounder Cod, Atlantic November Kilos 6,071 -
2016 Yellowtail flounder Cod, Atlantic August Kilos 6,781 -
2016 Yellowtail flounder Cod, Atlantic February Kilos 3,502 -
2016 Yellowtail flounder Cod, Atlantic January Kilos 9,524 -
2016 Yellowtail flounder Cod, Atlantic July Kilos 4,886 -
2016 Yellowtail flounder Cod, Atlantic June Kilos 19,509 -
2016 Yellowtail flounder Cod, Atlantic May Kilos 991 -
2016 Yellowtail flounder Cod, Atlantic October Kilos 2,663 -
2016 Yellowtail flounder Cod, Atlantic September Kilos 26,891 - 83,514 1.12% 1.28%

2016 Yellowtail flounder Haddock June Kilos 40 -

2016 Yellowtail flounder Haddock September Kilos 1,059 - 1,099 0.01% 0.02%

2016 Yellowtail flounder Redfish September Kilos 37 - 37 0.00% 0.00%

2016 Yellowtail flounder Halibut August Kilos 365 -

2016 Yellowtail flounder Halibut July Kilos 2,746 -
2016 Yellowtail flounder Halibut June Kilos 2,016 -
2016 Yellowtail flounder Halibut May Kilos 2,740 -
2016 Yellowtail flounder Halibut October Kilos 1,683 4
2016 Yellowtail flounder Halibut September Kilos 4,381 4 13,938 0.19% 0.21%

2015 Yellowtail flounder American plaice December Kilos 19,468 -

2015 Yellowtail flounder American plaice November Kilos 98,457 -
2015 Yellowtail flounder American plaice October Kilos 7,115 -

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2016 Yellowtail flounder American plaice August Kilos 73,741 -

2016 Yellowtail flounder American plaice February Kilos 14,827 -
2016 Yellowtail flounder American plaice January Kilos 32,414 20
2016 Yellowtail flounder American plaice July Kilos 68,950 -
2016 Yellowtail flounder American plaice June Kilos 189,907 -
2016 Yellowtail flounder American plaice May Kilos 13,017 -
2016 Yellowtail flounder American plaice October Kilos 50,040 -
2016 Yellowtail flounder American plaice September Kilos 155,314 150 723,420 9.70% 11.11%

2015 Yellowtail flounder Yellowtail flounder December Kilos 635,231 -

2015 Yellowtail flounder Yellowtail flounder November Kilos 1,499,843 30
2015 Yellowtail flounder Yellowtail flounder October Kilos 63,371 -
2016 Yellowtail flounder Yellowtail flounder August Kilos 122,448 -
2016 Yellowtail flounder Yellowtail flounder February Kilos 339,708 -
2016 Yellowtail flounder Yellowtail flounder January Kilos 774,272 232
2016 Yellowtail flounder Yellowtail flounder July Kilos 246,179 -
2016 Yellowtail flounder Yellowtail flounder June Kilos 1,208,848 -
2016 Yellowtail flounder Yellowtail flounder May Kilos 389,614 -
2016 Yellowtail flounder Yellowtail flounder October Kilos 403,779 -
2016 Yellowtail flounder Yellowtail flounder September Kilos 825,144 - 6,508,699 87.24%

2016 Yellowtail flounder Greysole/witch July Kilos 1 -

2016 Yellowtail flounder Greysole/witch June Kilos 5 -
2016 Yellowtail flounder Greysole/witch October Kilos 805 -
2016 Yellowtail flounder Greysole/witch September Kilos 10,228 - 11,039 0.15% 0.17%

2016 Yellowtail flounder Skate August Kilos - 4,450

2016 Yellowtail flounder Skate February Kilos - 19,565
2016 Yellowtail flounder Skate January Kilos - 32,360
2016 Yellowtail flounder Skate July Kilos - 9,400
2016 Yellowtail flounder Skate June Kilos - 8,085
2016 Yellowtail flounder Skate May Kilos - 2,718

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2016 Yellowtail flounder Skate October Kilos - 20,350

2016 Yellowtail flounder Skate September Kilos - 21,635 118,563 1.59% 1.82%

Monkfish (Am
2016 Yellowtail flounder angler) October Kilos 28 - 28 0.00% 0.00%

TOTAL 7,341,334 119,003 7,460,337 100.00% 14.62%

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Appendix B

NAFO SC Advice June 2015

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SCYellowtail
OCI Grand Bank 29 May –Flounder
11 June 2015
Trawl 14

Projections
Projections were conducted assuming two levels of catch in 2015: TAC level (17 000t) and the average of the
2007-2014 catch (7 400 t) followed by constant fishing mortality from 2016-2018 at 2/3 Fmsy, 75% Fmsy, and
85% Fmsy. Although yields are projected to decline in the medium term at both levels of catch in 2015, at the
end of the projection period, the risk of biomass being below Bmsy is less than 1% in all cases. The probability
of biomass increasing in the projection period (P(B2018>B2014)) is <1%. The stock is well above Bmsy and the
projected levels of F result in catches higher than the estimated surplus production which will result in a
decline in biomass toward Bmsy.
Projections with Catch in 2015 = Average 2007-2014 catch (7 400t)
Projected Yield ('000t) Projected Relative Biomass (By/Bmsy)
Median (80% CI) Median (80% CI)
⅔ Fmsy
2016 21.02 (19.69 - 23.01) 1.77 (1.75 - 1.77)
2017 19.52 (18.42 - 21.21) 1.61 (1.60 - 1.62)
2018 18.58 (17.66 - 20.02) 1.52 (1.50 - 1.54)
75% Fmsy
2016 23.43 (21.95, 25.64) 1.77 (1.75 - 1.77)
2017 21.44 (20.25 - 23.27) 1.58 (1.57 - 1.60)
2018 20.21 (19.24 - 21.72) 1.47 (1.45 - 1.49)
85% Fmsy
2016 26.26 (24.61 - 28.74) 1.77 (1.75 - 1.77)
2017 23.62 (22.33 - 25.59) 1.55 (1.53 - 1.56)
2018 21.97 (20.97 - 23.57) 1.42 (1.40 - 1.44)
Fmsy
2016 30.39 (28.49 - 33.24) 1.77 (1.75 - 1.77)
2017 26.60 (25.20 - 28.78) 1.50 (1.49 - 1.52)
2018 24.27 (23.25 - 25.98) 1.35 (1.32 - 1.37)

Catch 2015 = 7400 t

Yield P(Fy > Fmsy) P(By < Bmsy)
F Level 2016 2017 2015 2016 2017 2016 2017 2018 P (B2018 > B2014)
2/3 Fmsy 21.02 19.52 <1% <1% <1% <1% <1% <1% <1%
75% Fmsy 23.43 21.44 <1% <1% <1% <1% <1% <1% <1%
85% Fmsy 26.26 23.62 5% 5% 5% <1% <1% <1% <1%

www.nafo.int

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15 SC 29 May –11 June 2015

Projections (cont.)

Projections with Catch in 2015 = TAC (17 000t)

Projected Yield ('000t) Projected Relative Biomass (By/Bmsy)
Median (80% CI) Median (80% CI)
⅔ Fmsy
2016 19.94 (18.70 - 21.80) 1.66 (1.65 - 1.67)
2017 18.85 (17.85 - 20.41) 1.55 (1.53 - 1.56)
2018 18.15 (17.31 - 19.50) 1.48 (1.45 - 1.50)
75% Fmsy
2016 22.22 (20.85 - 24.29) 1.66 (1.65 - 1.67)
2017 20.7 (19.62 - 22.40) 1.52 (1.51 - 1.53)
2018 19.72 (18.85 - 21.15) 1.43 (1.41 - 1.46)
85% Fmsy
2016 24.91 (23.37 - 27.22) 1.66 (1.65 - 1.67)
2017 22.79 (21.62 - 24.64) 1.49 (1.47 - 1.50)
2018 21.44 (20.53 - 22.95) 1.38 (1.36 - 1.41)
Fmsy
2016 28.82 (27.05 - 31.49) 1.66 (1.65 - 1.67)
2017 25.66 (24.38 - 27.69) 1.44 (1.43 - 1.46)
2018 23.66 (22.73 - 25.24) 1.31 (1.28 - 1.33)

Catch 2015 = 17 000 t (TAC)

Yield P(Fy > Fmsy) P(By < Bmsy)
F Level 2016 2017 2015 2016 2017 2016 2017 2018 P (B2018 > B2014)
2/3 Fmsy 19.94 18.85 <1% <1% <1% <1% <1% <1% <1%
75% Fmsy 22.22 20.70 <1% <1% <1% <1% <1% <1% <1%
85% Fmsy 24.91 22.79 5% 5% 5% <1% <1% <1% <1%

Assessment
A surplus production model was used (STACFIS 2015). The results were consistent with the previous
assessment and are considered to be reliable. Input data comes from research surveys and the fishery
(STACFIS 2015) and is considered good quality. Next assessment: 2017.
Human impact
Mainly fishery related mortality has been documented. Other sources (e.g. pollution, shipping, oil-industry)
are undocumented.
Biology and Environmental interactions
As stock size increased from the low level in the mid-90s, the stock expanded northward and continues to
occupy this wider distribution. This expansion of the stock coincided with warmer temperatures;
temperatures continue to warm, and will likely not limit the stock distribution in the near future.
Despite the increase in stock size observed since the mid-90s, the average length at which 50% of fish are
mature has been lower for both males and females in the recent period. There also seems to have been a
slight downward trend in weight at length since 1996. The cause of these changes is unknown.
Fishery
Yellowtail flounder is caught in a directed trawl fishery and as by-catch in other trawl fisheries. The fishery is
regulated by quota and minimum size restrictions. Catches in recent years have been low due to industry-
related factors. American plaice and cod are taken as by-catch in the yellowtail fishery. There is a 15% by-
catch restriction on American plaice and a 4% limit on cod.

www.nafo.int

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SC 29 May – 11 June 2015 16

Recent catch estimates and TACs (‘000 t) are as follows:

2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015
TAC1 15.0 15.5 15.5 17 17 17 17 17 17 17
STATLANT 21 0.6 4.4 11.3 5.8 9.3 5.2 3.2 10.5 8.0
STACFIS 0.9 4.6 11.4 6.2 9.4 5.2 3.1 10.7 8.0
1 SC recommended any TAC up to 85% Fmsy in 2009-2015.

Effects of the fishery on the ecosystem

Fishing intensity on yellowtail flounder has impacts on Divs. 3NO cod and Divs. 3LNO American plaice
through by-catch. General impacts of fishing gears on the ecosystem should also be considered.
Special comments
Catch of yellowtail flounder has been below TAC in recent years. If catches increase, fishing mortality on
Divs. 3NO cod and Divs. 3LNO American plaice will also increase.
Sources of information
SCR Docs. 11/34, 15/08, 026, 029; SCS Docs. 15-05, 6, 7, 8, 9; NAFO/GC Doc. 08-3; NAFO/FC Doc. 04-18

www.nafo.int

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Appendix 4 - Additional detail on conditions/ actions/ results

The following research plan was provided by DFO Newfoundland and Labrador region.

3LNO Yellowtail Flounder Research Plan (in support of Management Objectives)

1. Five Year Objectives

a. Maintain the provision of Yellowtail flounder (3LNO) survey biomass indices and
recruitment information collected during bi-annual DFO multi-species research
surveys to inform the NAFO management (interim monitoring and full assessments
on a 3-year basis) of the Yellowtail flounder stock status. This stock is assessed
using a non-equilibrium surplus production model (ASPIC) and results are
incorporated into a Precautionary Approach Framework for Yellowtail flounder.
b. Monitor potential impacts of the Yellowtail flounder fishery on the stock size and
distributions of non-target species (e.g. Atlantic cod and American plaice; impacts on
Vulnerable Marine Ecosystems) through DFO multi-species research surveys and
through Observer Coverage of by-catch in the Yellowtail flounder fishery.
c. Continue diet studies of Yellowtail flounder (a plank-piscivorous species) and other
major groundfish species and to estimate food consumption by main predator and
prey groups. Additionally, continue to estimate overall food consumption by the fish
community.
d. Continue to investigate trophic level for key species using diet composition and
stable isotopes.

2. Scope- How does it link to DFO decision making

a. DFO principles of Conservation and Sustainable Harvest, Benefits to Stakeholders
and Co-management of the Yellowtail flounder resource are met through informing
the NAFO assessment (and interim monitoring) of the Yellowtail flounder stock
status and providing advice to Fisheries Commission (responsible for setting TACs
for the fishery) in a Precautionary Framework. The PA limits and advice that result
from the assessment provide the basis for Harvest Control Rules with the goal “To
maintain the Relative Biomass at or above 1 and to keep Relative Fishing Mortality
at less than 1”.
b. Monitoring and assessment of species impacted by the Yellowtail flounder fishery
(e.g. Atlantic Cod and American plaice) supports the Conservation and Sustainable
Harvest principle, ensuring other resources are considered when TACs are set,
particularly for those stocks under continuing moratorium to directed fishing.
c. Considering the role of Yellowtail flounder in the ecosystem (through diet and trophic
studies, as well as impacts of the fishery on VMEs) also supports this principle of
conservation, and moves towards incorporating the ecosystem approach to
management.

3. Advantage- what will we do differently from others: what makes us unique

a. The long time series of high intensity sampling and wide geographical coverage of
multi-species annual research vessel surveys provides historical perspective on
Yellowtail flounder.
b. Detailed sampling conducted in the multi-species aspect of the research surveys
gives valuable linkages to other stocks impacted by the Yellowtail flounder fishery,
as well as ecosystem and fish community data.
c. DFO’s involvement in the NAFO assessment process for this stock has included
participating over the long term in NAFO Scientific Council and on many occasions
(and currently) leading the assessment of Yellowtail flounder to provide advice to
NAFO Fisheries Commission which use SC assessments and recommendations to
set TACs for the fishery.

4. Work Planning Staff

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No detailed staffing information is outlined here. Annual Research surveys incorporate

the services of numerous technicians (EG4, EG5, BI-2, BI-3, BI-4) as do the
ecosystem and diet studies. NAFO stock assessment of Yellowtail flounder is currently
led by BI-4, but support for the NAFO work is contributed by many levels of DFO staff
and participation at NAFO annual meetings is extensively supported by DFO
personnel. Annual research surveys are considered a high priority for maintaining the
information time series required to provide advice for many stocks (including Yellowtail
flounder), and additional research activities on Yellowtail flounder (or species impacted
by the Yellowtail flounder fishery) are planned as appropriate and dependent on
available funding and program support related to DFO strategic priorities.

5. Priority Projects
1. Yellowtail flounder assessment and interim monitoring of the stock at NAFO
annual Scientific Council meetings. These responsibilities are reliant on
information from the multispecies research vessel survey required to update the
currently accepted ASPIC stock production model and provide advice to
Fisheries Commission in a Precautionary Approach Framework.
2. Continue to monitor and assess other species (e.g. American plaice and cod) that
may be impacted by Yellowtail flounder fishing activity.
3. Efforts to improve the data and assessment methodology used for this stock
could be considered, with the aim to reduce uncertainty in the advice. Further
investigations to solve Yellowtail flounder aging difficulties may allow age-based
assessment; or alternative fisheries production models may also improve stock
understanding.
4. Trophic interactions and diet studies on Yellowtail flounder in relation to fish
community structure and ecosystem knowledge.

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Appendix 5 - Revised Surveillance Program

With the closing of the single condition the audit team recommend a revised surveillance program which
entails a review information audit. This would involve the CAB seeking the views of the client and
identifying if there are any issues requiring further investigation. The audit is undertaken from a remote
location. The CAB publishes a statement of review of information

Table 5.1 : Surveillance level rationale

Year Surveillance Number of Rationale

activity auditors

2 Review of 1 auditor off-site All of the conditions have been closed out and unless
information – off- there significant changes within the fishery reported
site to the CAB during the next auditing period it is
considered that the audit can be a review of
information audit undertaken remotely by 1 auditor.

Table 5.2: Timing of surveillance audit

Year Anniversary Proposed date Rationale

date of of surveillance
certificate audit
2 28th October 2017 November / The timing of this year's audit seemed to suit the
December 2017 client, the CAB and auditors.

Table 5.3: Fishery Surveillance Program Revised

Surveillance Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4

Level
On-site
Off-site Review of Review of surveillance
Level 1 surveillance information information audit & re-
audit audit audit certification site
visit.

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