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Vulnerable Marine Ecosystems (VME) Closures

Within its Convention Area, NAFO has identified 27 areas as being vulnerable to bottom contact gears and subsequently closed these areas to bottom fishing (see Article 17 of the NAFO CEM). NAFO has also delineated existing bottom fishing areas (footprint) to regulate bottom fisheries that cause a significant adverse impact on vulnerable marine ecosystems. 

The VME closed areas are divided into two categories, the blue areas in the map below represent the seamount closures, and the red areas represent the sponge, coral, and sea pen closures. As reflected in Article 17 of the NAFO CEM, no vessel shall engage in bottom fishing activities in any of these areas. The coordinates for these areas are provided in Article 17 of the NAFO CEM.

Shape files-VME Closures Shape files-Seamount Closures

 

FAO-VME Database

The vulnerable marine ecosystem (VME) concept emerged from discussions at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) and gained momentum after UNGA Resolution 61/105. The FAO VME Database is a global inventory of fisheries measures adopted in areas beyond national jurisdiction to prevent significant adverse impacts of bottom fisheries on vulnerable marine ecosystems. The interactive website can be accessed by clicking the image below:

Contact us

Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organization
Summit Place
1601 Lower Water Street 
Suite 401
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Canada B3J 3P6

Tel: +1 902 468-5590
Email: info@nafo.int