Changes to Fisheries Act take effect November 25

As part of its Omnibus Budget Bill last year, the government passed significant changes to the federal Fisheries Act which came into force November 25^th (see Order in Council P.C. 2013-1107).

These changes mark the end of the prohibition against the harmful alteration, disruption or destruction of fish habitat (the HADD Provision). For decades, the HADD Provision has served as the primary focus of federal regulation under the Fisheries Act supported by the scientific principle that NO HABITAT = NO FISH.

In place of the HADD Provision is now a prohibition against works, undertakings or activities that result in serious harm to fish that are part of a commercial, recreational or Aboriginal fishery, or to fish that support such a fishery.  The definition of “serious harm” is the “death of fish or any permanent alteration to, or destruction of, fish habitat.”

Read “Changes to Fisheries Act take effect November 25” on the ELC blog.

ABOUT THE ENVIRONMENTAL LAW CENTRE:

The Environmental Law Centre (ELC) has been seeking strong and effective environmental laws since it was founded in 1982. The ELC is dedicated to providing credible, comprehensive and objective legal information regarding natural resources, energy and environmental law, policy and regulation in Alberta. The ELC’s mission is to educate and champion for strong laws and rights so all Albertans can enjoy clean water, clean air and a healthy environment. Our vision is a society where laws secure an environment that sustains current and future generations.

As a charity, the Environmental Law Centre depends on your financial support. Help us to continue to educate and champion for strong environmental laws, through tools such as our blog and all of our other resources, so that all Albertans can enjoy a healthy environment. Your support makes a difference.
Donate online today