Ottawa won’t list American eel as ‘species at risk’

Good news for elver fishers.

Ottawa announced that the American eel will not be classified as an endangered species.

In their decision, the feds said the eel fishery supports many on the East Coast.

Their decision considered the best data available and comments from stakeholders, Indigenous groups and more.

They say managing their habitat under the Fisheries Act is most effective for conserving the species and providing economic benefit to Canadians.

Meanwhile, the Canadian Committee for a Sustainable Eel Fishery say they welcome the government’s decision.

In a statement, president Genna Carey says strong law enforcement from DFO can safeguard the eel population while supporting the many communities that depend on this fishery.