There are five major activities under the departmental mandate which are administered by Assistant Deputy Ministers (ADMs) who are responsible for broad policy formulation, strategic and operational planning, resourcing, scientific and technical services and functional guidance. to the Regional Directors General who provide for Program delivery.

Deputy Minister
In accordance with Section 3 of the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Act, the Deputy Minister of Fisheries and Oceans is the deputy head of the Department. The Office of the Deputy Minister develops, coordinates and implements the departmental program consistent with the powers, duties and functions outlined in Section 4 of the Act and provides administrative support to Crown Corporations for which the Minister has responsibility. Program objectives are carried out by one Associate Deputy Minister (Associate DM) and five Assistant Deputy Ministers (ADMs) located at headquarters in Ottawa, Ontario and six Regional Directors General (RDGs) located across the country. In addition to the Associate DM, ADMs and RDGs, the Director General - Communications, the Director General -Executive Secretariat and General Counsel also report directly to the Deputy Minister.

Executive Secretariat provides support to the Offices of the Minister, the Deputy Minister and the Associate Deputy Minister. The Executive Secretariat is responsible for: Cabinet and Parliamentary Affairs including the provision of advice and briefings on policy issues, coordination of Question Period briefing materials; liaison with the Minister's office; management of Ministerial and Departmental correspondence and related processes; Access to Information and Privacy; and associated administrative functions.

The Communications Branch houses the department's expertise for providing a broad range of internal and external communications advice, strategies, products and services.

General Counsel - Department of Justice legal services attached to DFO provide legal counsel on all matters touching the operation and administration of the Department.

The Audit and Evaluation Directorate (AED) carries out the functions of evaluation and internal audit across the Department, and serves as a focal point for audits conducted by the Auditor General. AED is also responsible for implementing Integrated Risk Management in the Department.

The DG, Human Resources is responsible for delivering policy and procedural advice, services and training to managers and employees on organization and classification, human resource planning, succession planning, learning and career development, performance management, staffing and recruitment, employment equity and diversity, official languages, labour relations, compensation, human resource management systems, awards and recognition, and management trainee/career assignment programs.

Associate Deputy Minister
The Associate Deputy Minister supports the Deputy Minister in managing all aspects of departmental business. In this context, the Associate DM's duties include leadership of various specific initiatives, and a special focus on priority areas, as requested by the Deputy Minister. These specific duties include a focus on: capital planning processes, which the Associate DM helps oversee as chair of the department's Investment Management Board; legal risk management, in the Associate DM's capacity as chair of the department's Litigation Committee; aquaculture, which the Associate DM helps oversee as chair of the Departmental Management Committee Subcommittee on Aquaculture; and human resources modernization initiatives, which have in the past included oversight and management of a departmental mentoring program, competency-based learning and development strategy, and workplace health and wellness initiative.

The Associate DM also has direct responsibility for the Centre for Values, Integrity and Conflict Resolution. This office provides departmental employees with a non-adversarial mechanism to address any concerns they may have about conflicts or potential conflicts in the workplace. The Centre also provides the department's disclosure function, as set out in the Treasury Board's Policy on the Internal Disclosure of Information Concerning Wrongdoing in the Workplace.

Corporate Services
The ADM, Corporate Services, provides executive direction, coordination and corporate administrative services in support of Program objectives. The Sector is also responsible for:

Finance and Administration provides advice and services in areas of resource management, financial planning, accounting and reporting, policy and systems, contracting and procurement, asset management (not including Small Craft Harbours or Real Property).

Integrated Planning leads and facilitates business planning initiatives and provides advisory support services internally to the department for the identification, analysis and resolution of strategic issues related to department-wide administration, management and governance matters.

Information Management and Technology Services provides advice and services in the areas of application development, information and data management (including libraries), computer processing, telecommunications PC support, electronic networks and IT security.

The Real Property, Safety and Security (RPSS) Branch provides advice and services in the areas of Real Property management, Divestiture, Environmental Coordination and Safety and Security in accordance with a comprehensive framework designed to manage and improve departmental performance in compliance with applicable federal statutes, policies and regulations.

Environmental Coordination Office -implementation of an environmental management framework designed to manage and improve departmental environmental performance in compliance with federal statutes and regulations.

Small Craft Harbours - operates and maintains a national system of harbours to provide commercial fish harvesters and other harbour users with safe and accessible facilities. The Small Craft Harbours Program (SCH) provides a sustainable network of approximately 750 core fishing harbours that are maintained in good condition and are operated and managed by local Harbour Authorities (HAs) representing the interests of users and communities. SCH is responsible to dispose of non-essential harbours by transferring all recreational harbours to local communities and by reducing the number of derelict and low activity fishing harbours through rationalization.

Newfoundland Bait Program (NBP). Unique to Newfoundland and Labrador, this program exists to provide a bait fish purchase and sale function from as many as 15 locations across the Province. Legal authority for this program exists within the Terms of Union between Newfoundland and Canada. At present, property ownership rests with Fisheries and Oceans Canada while day-to-day facility management as well as bait product service delivery is provided by private sector contractors.

Fisheries and Aquaculture Management
The ADM, Fisheries and Aquaculture Management is responsible for:

Aboriginal Policy and Governance -develops Aboriginal fisheries policies, administers the Aboriginal Fisheries Strategy, the Atlantic Integrated Commercial Fisheries Initiative, the Aboriginal Aquatic Resources and Oceans Management Program and negotiates provisions of land claims related to DFO's mandate.

Coordination of the annual seal hunt.
Atlantic Fisheries and Pacific Region Licensing Appeal Boards hear appeals from fish harvesters who are dissatisfied with departmental licensing decisions and licensing policy made by Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO).

Conservation and Protection ensures compliance with legislation, policies and programs in support of conservation and sustainable fisheries resources through educational and enforcement programs in both tidal and non‑tidal waters except in Ontario, Quebec and the Prairie Provinces. Fishery management plans, policies, programs and regulations ensure sustainability of stocks and fair distribution of harvestable surpluses.

Fisheries Policy Development -The Atlantic Fisheries Policy Review (AFPR) has been established to develop a consistent and cohesive policy framework for the management of Canada's East Coast fish stocks. The work of the AFPR is being done in two phases: Phase I delivers a long-term policy framework and has been completed. Phase II establishes priorities and begins to operationalize elements from the policy framework developed in Phase I. Work also has been undertaken to establish a national fisheries policy framework.

International Affairs' role is to direct the conduct of international relations to advance Canada's fisheries conservation interests and work to assert Canadian interests with respect to internationally managed fish stocks. This includes the negotiation and administration of international treaties and agreements affecting conservation, allocations, the conduct of bilateral and multilateral fisheries relations with other countries, the settlement of issues related to maritime boundary disputes as well as the formulation and presentation of international fisheries conservation and allocation advice to the Minister.

Licensing provides a means for regulating participation in and access to the fishery to ensure that the harvest remains within conservation limits and promotes economic viability.

Responsible Fishing Programs contributes to resource conservation of fish stocks through the development and industry use of selective fishing practices.

The Freshwater Fish Marketing Corporation provides advice and analysis of issues relating to the operations and mandate of this Crown Corporation are provided to the Minister on an ongoing basis. The Department coordinates on an annual basis the development and approval by Treasury Board and the Department of Finance of the corporate plan and operating and capital budgets of this Corporation.

Aquaculture Management Directorate (AMD) provides departmental focus and strategic direction on the aquaculture file. It helps to create an enabling regulatory environment so the industry can succeed sustainably. Pursues stronger collaboration with federal and provincial partners through the Canadian Council of Aquaculture Ministers Aquaculture Task Group and other federal-provincial mechanisms, to bring about an integrated governmental response to the emerging needs and priorities of the aquaculture industry, such as food safety, traceability, business risk management and aquatic animal health. Establishes mechanisms to reach aquaculture stakeholders, listening and acting on their concerns, and contributing to an informed public dialogue and strengthened public and consumer confidence by providing factual information about aquaculture challenges and opportunities. Participates in key international aquaculture policy and research with a view to sharing Canadian expertise and values, and maintaining Canada's leadership in sustainable development.

Canadian Coast Guard (CCG)
The Commissioner of the Canadian Coast Guard is the head of the Agency and is directly accountable to the Deputy Minister.

The Office of the Commissioner is responsible for:

Aids to Navigation – The Aids to Navigation Services program involves the provision of short-range marine aids numbering 17,000-plus, including visual aids (lighthouses and buoys) and sound aids (fog horns), as well as radar aids (reflectors and beacons) and long-range marine aids, including electronic aids such as the Differential Global Positioning System (DGPS). The benefit to mariners is safe, accessible and effective vessel transit in Canadian waters. This program is delivered, in part, with the support of CCG's operationally capable and ready fleet.

Waterways Management – The Waterways Management program enables CCG to help ensure safety and accessibility of waterways by providing channel dredging in the Great Lakes connecting channels under a Canada-U.S. agreement, managing dredging of the St Lawrence River on a cost-recovery basis, monitoring channel bathymetry, contributing to the international control of water levels in the St. Lawrence River and operating the Canso Canal. The program also enables CCG to help ensure safe passage by providing users with marine safety information, including water-depth forecasts. Waterways Management sustains navigable channels, reduces marine navigation risks and supports environmental protection. This program is delivered, in part, with the support of CCG's operationally capable and ready fleet.

Marine Communications and Traffic Services – The Marine Communications and Traffic Services (MCTS) program provides marine distress and safety communications, conducts vessel screenings, regulates vessel traffic in selected Canadian waters, provides pertinent information and public correspondence service on a 24/7 basis. Through the MCTS program, search and rescue responders have increased knowledge of persons or vessels in distress, mariners in distress have a means to request assistance, mariners have relevant accurate and timely information, and CCG has enhanced information on vessel transit for maritime security domain awareness. MCTS contributes to the safety of life at sea, the protection of the marine environment, the efficient movement of shipping in waterways and the provision of essential information to mariners.

Icebreaking Services – The Icebreaking program of CCG provides icebreaking and related services to facilitate the informed, safe and timely movement of maritime traffic through and around ice-covered Canadian waters for the benefit of industry and communities. This program activity includes providing ice information and escorting ships through ice-covered waters, freeing beset vessels in ice, maintaining open tracks through shore-fast ice, conducting harbour breakouts, providing ice routing advice and reducing the risk of flooding on the St. Lawrence River through monitoring, prevention and breaking up of ice jams.

Search and Rescue – The federal Search and Rescue (SAR) Program, led by the Minister of National Defence, is a co-operative effort by federal, provincial, and municipal governments. CCG's SAR program, in conjunction with the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary, leads, delivers and maintains preparedness for the 5.3 million square kilometre maritime component of the federal SAR system. Through distress monitoring, communication and search and rescue activities, the CCG SAR program increases the chances of rescue for people caught in dangerous on-water situations. This program is delivered, in part, with the support of CCG's operationally capable and ready fleet.

Environmental Response – The CCG is the lead federal agency for all ship-source and mystery spills into the marine environment in waters under Canadian jurisdiction, and for supporting other countries under international agreements. The objectives of the Environmental Response program of the CCG are to minimize the environmental, economic and public safety impacts of marine pollution incidents. The CCG monitors and investigates all reports of marine pollution in Canada and in conjunction with commercial partners, uses its own resources, such as vessels and pollution countermeasures equipment as required, to respond. Where the polluter has been identified and is willing and able to respond, the CCG advises the polluter of their responsibilities and, once satisfied with the polluter's intentions / plans, the CCG assumes the role as the Federal Monitoring Officer (FMO) and monitors the polluter's response and provides advice and guidance as required. However, in those cases where the polluter is unknown, unwilling or unable to respond, the CCG will assume the overall management of the incident. This program is delivered, in part, with the support of CCG's operationally capable and ready fleet.

Marine Services Fees – Commercial ships operating in Canadian waters (excluding fishing vessels, government ships and pleasure craft) must pay fees to the CCG for certain marine navigation and icebreaking services it provides. The fees in question—the Marine Navigation Services Fee and the Icebreaking Services Fee—help the Coast Guard recover a portion of the costs associated with providing these services. The fees are based on the premise that those who benefit directly from publicly-funded services should contribute to the cost of those services.

Maritime Security - The CCG's involvement in maritime security has been increasing in recent years and is based on its obligation under the Oceans Act to support departments and agencies which are mandated to provide security and enforcement. Coast Guard's involvement is in supporting maritime domain awareness, on-water enforcement and responsiveness, safeguarding Canadians, and enhancing its collaboration with other departments and agencies. This is carried out through specific operational support, as well as ongoing participation in multi-agency initiatives such as the Marine Security Operations Centres and the Maritime Security Enforcement Teams.

Fleet Operational Readiness - Fleet provides the national policy, planning requirements, professional staff support and safety management functions of national fleet management for Canadian Coast Guard ships and aircraft used to support the marine activities of the Department, other government departments and the safety and sovereignty requirements of the citizens of Canada.

Canadian Coast Guard International Relations' role is to help advance Canada's interests by working co-operatively with international organizations to develop international rules, regulations, policy and technology for safe and secure transportation on the world's waterways. There is also support for the Government of Canada's priority to build stronger multilateral and bilateral relationships with Canada's international friends and allies. In particular, CCG has a comprehensive working partnership with the United States Coast Guard through joint exercises, operations, planning and delivery of services to mutual clients and stakeholders.

Life-Cycle Asset Management Services – As the National Technical Authority for the CCG, Life-Cycle Asset Management Services is responsible for the design and effective and efficient materiel support of all CCG's physical assets throughout their life. These assets include vessels, aids to navigation and communication, navigation surveillance and information systems which provide service to CCG and DFO programs and external clients. This group is responsible for the business management of CCG's technical program, the management of acquisition projects, except Major Crown Projects, the establishment and maintenance of standards and processes for engineering, Life Cycle Materiel Management and Integrated Logistics Support.

Major Crown Projects Directorate (MCPD) – The Major Crown Projects was established in June 2006 with the mandate to implement and manage the acquisition of new vessels for the CCG, as laid out in the 25 year Fleet Renewal Plan. This Plan is an investment strategy to achieve an orderly and affordable replacement of vessel capability, to ensure that CCG will have a strong, modern, multi-mission fleet, capable of delivering a cost effective and reliable service to Canadians well into the future. The projects currently being managed by the MCPD include acquisition of: one Air Cushion Vehicle, 12 Mid-Shore Patrol Vessels, three Offshore Fisheries Science Vessels, one Oceanographic Science Vessel and one Polar Class Icebreaker. The Directorate consists of some 23 indeterminate core positions, supplemented by additional specialized determinate employees dedicated to specific acquisition projects.

Canadian Coast Guard College (CCGC) – The CCGC trains officer cadets for a career in the Coast Guard through its four-year Coast Guard Officer Training Program (CGOTP), provides training in search and rescue and environmental response, Marine Communications and Traffic Services, marine engineering, navigation, electronics training, Global Maritime Distress and Safety Systems.

Since the CCG became a special operating agency, five (5) Assistant Commissioners (AC), along with the Executive Director of the Coast Guard College, are now under direct report to the Commissioner. The ACs work in close cooperation with the Department's RDGs.

Oceans, Habitat and Species at Risk
The ADM, Oceans and Habitat ensures the development of an integrated departmental approach to the discharge of our oceans and freshwater habitat responsibilities, and is responsible for the :

Habitat Management Directorate - In collaboration with others, Habitat Management involves conserving and protecting fish and fish habitat from the impacts of activities occurring in and around fresh and marine fish-bearing waters, and improving (restoring and developing) fish habitat through the administration of the habitat protection provisions of the Fisheries Act, providing advice on related provisions of the Act, and the application of non-regulatory activities. It also involves conducting environmental assessments prior to regulatory decisions listed in the Law List Regulations of the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act (CEAA) and participating in other environmental assessment regimes. These activities are performed in a manner consistent with the Species at Risk Act (SARA); the Policy for the Management of Fish Habitat and other operational policies; consultation with Aboriginal groups; the goals and principles of sustainable development; and the policies and priorities of the federal government.

Oceans Management Directorate - Oceans management involves the conservation and sustainable use of Canada's oceans in collaboration with other levels of government, Aboriginal organizations and other non-government stakeholders through the development and implementation of objectives-based integrated oceans management plans and the application of marine conservation tools including Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). Modern oceans management arrangements deal with a number of challenges including oceans health, marine habitat loss, declining biodiversity, growing demands for access to ocean resources and regulatory and jurisdictional complexities.

Species at Risk – The Minister of Fisheries and Oceans is responsible for administering, through the activities of the Species at Risk Management Program, the provisions of the Species at Risk Act(SARA) related to all aquatic species (freshwater and marine), including the implementation of the necessary conservation and protection measures under SARA for aquatic species on the list of wildlife species at risk. Aquatic species include marine mammals, fish and marine plant species as defined under the federal Fisheries Act.

Species at Risk Management involves developing recovery strategies, action plans and management plans for all aquatic species; promoting recovery implementation and monitoring marine and anadromous (moves between fresh and salt water) species over which the federal government has exclusive jurisdiction; and promoting freshwater species for which certain provinces have specific delegated responsibilities related to fisheries management through regulations under the Fisheries Act.

Species at risk protection and conservation is a joint responsibility of the federal, provincial and territorial governments. As a result, the capacity and level of co-operation and support within each of the provinces and territories can have a significant impact on the implementation of SARA. In addition, land claim agreements in the territories have established wildlife management boards, which share responsibilities with governments on the management of species at risk. Co-operation between and among jurisdictions is critical for the successful implemenation of recovery strategies and action plans.

Policy
The ADM, Policy is responsible for providingpolicy coherence and strategic guidance on policy priorities to other sectors and advice to other departments and governments on specific issues and for Economic Analysis and Statistics (EAS) Branch. EAS provides economic and statistical analysis, advice and support, on a wide range of domestic economic and international fisheires and oceans issues, including commercial fishing licence fees, oceans economic issues, as well as the potential impacts of domestic and international fisheries management decisions. EAS is the centre of expertise for the the mangement and dissemination of the departmental fisheries, aquaculture and trade statistics.

International Policy and Integration (IPI) is responsible for managing all aspects of international policy and integration forFisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO). This includes the analysis, development and implementation of international policies. The branch is specifically responsible for the implementation of the International Governance Strategy (an integrative framework, linking policy, science, fisheries management, biodiversity, diplomacy and advocacy, and communications), international fisheries policy, international trade and business development, international oceans and biodiversity policy, and international policy research and analysis activities. It is also responsible for developing the Department's strategic international policy and program position and priorities, providing high level advice and policy recommendations to DFO senior management and the Minister, and provides direct leadership in international policy development in numerous for a for the advancement of the broader international agenda of Canada.

Governance provides a single focus of expertise to support the development of new governance models in areas already identified for change; and advises the department on horizontal governance initiatives that affect DFO programs and mandate.

Legislation and Intergovernmental Affairs provides leadership in developing legislative and regulatory instruments to support fisheries renewal of the future, and other departmental and government-wide priorities, such as the coherent directive on streamlining regulations initiative for renewed and enhanced performance; delivers policy and regulatory analysis in support of legislative initiatives led by other sectors, including amendments to regulations in the Oceans Act and the Fisheries Act; provides policy leadership on the development and implementation of federal-provincial-territorial agreements, and other mechanisms to strengthen intergovernmental cooperation including the Canadian Council of Fisheries and Aquaculture Ministers, the Atlantic Council of Fisheries and Aquaculture Ministers; and the Pacific Council of Fisheries and Aquaculture Ministers; and coordinates policy development in the area of freshwater fisheries, aquatic invasive species, aquaculture, oceans, species at risk, recreational fisheries, and professionalization of fish harvesters.

Strategic Priorities and Planning leads a coordinated approach to developing strategic priorities and cross-cutting policy issues; develops mechanisms and processes to promote inter-sectoral cooperation in the development of policy initiatives (e.g. Policy Integration Committee); leads the department's strategic planning process; promotes an integrated approach to departmental planning and reporting; provides tools and resources in support of strategic planning (e.g. annual environmental scans, quarterly scanning reports); coordinates and provides support to Departmental Management Committee Retreats.

Science
Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) is a science-based department, and the Assistant Deputy Minister ( ADM) of Science ensures the highest standard of scientific information for use in developing policies, regulations and legislation. The core functions of DFO Sience Sector include research; monitoring; advice; management of data and information and the delivery of data, products and services. These functions support policy and program delivery for operations in Canada, as well as international commitments. The ADM Science works closely with a Senior Director General for Science Renewal and Directors General for two major science focus areas: Ecosystem Science, and Ocean Sciences-Canadian Hydrographic Service (OSCHS). The National Science Directors Committee, composed of these managers plus six Regional Directors of Science manages Science operations. Regional Directors of Science are responsible for the operations and staff at 14 science institutes, laboratories and experimental centres. DFO Science also has a series of mostly virtual Centres of Expertise where it is more effective to partner both internally and externally to achieve research results serving the national science agenda. Science Renewal focuses on building a flexible and responsive Science program for rapidly emerging departmental and federal science priorities aligned with the needs of decision makers today while anticipatory of the future and to determine how the program can be best mobilized to ensure relevance, efficiency, affordability, and value to Canadians. The activities of DFO Science support the three departmental strategic outcomes, as follows:

1. Safe and Accessible Waterways:

1.1 Navigation products and services: The Canadian Hydrographic Service (CHS) contributes to the safety and accessibility of Canadian waterways by surveying, measuring, describing, and charting the physical features of Canada's oceans, seas, rivers, and navigable inland waters and making up-to-date, timely and accurate hydrographic information, products and services available to citizens, mariners, and the Government of Canada.

1.2 Safety, security and sovereignty: Oceanographic research and monitoring enables the forecasting of ocean conditions (tides, currents, etc.) and provides useful insight into the impacts of climate change on navigation. Hydrographic data and inforrmation is also provided to support territorial claims and international disputes associated with limits and boundaries.

2. Sustainable Fisheries and Aquaculture:

2.1 Fisheries Resources – Through monitoring, research, and data management, Science provides an assessment of the status (e.g. growth, abundance, recruitment, distribution, and migration, etc.) and conservation objectives for fish, invertebrate and marine mammals in support of the sustainable management of the fisheries resource. This information is provided to decision-makers to inform decisions on sustainable harvest levels and international negotiations on the management of straddling stocks.

2.2 Aquatic Invasive Species – Aquatic invasive species are a major threat to aquatic biodiversity, ecosystem health, and the fisheries and aquaculture industries that healthy and productive ecosystems sustain. The objective is to prevent the introduction and spread of invasive species. Knowledge derived through science activities, such as research on pathways of invasion, methodologies to detect new invasions, risk assessments, control measures, as well as the monitoring of established populations supports the development of regulatory frameworks, control of existing invasive species, and rapid responses to newly discovered introductions.

2.3 Aquatic Animal Health – Monitoring, surveillance, detection, and reporting of aquatic animal diseases of national and international importance and wild and cultured aquatic animals is imperative to prevent serious disease outbreaks. Knowledge derived through science informs certification of aquatic animal health status in support of the Canadian fish/seafood trade and the delivery of federal responsibilities under the Health of Animals Act and the Fisheries Act.

2.4 Aquaculture Science – Science has an important role to play in supporting sustainable aquaculture production. Science efforts are directed towards improved fish nutrition, health, production, and an increased understanding of the interactions between aquaculture and the environment. This knowledge is used by decision-makers in the development of aquaculture policies and guidelines, as well as industry in adopting aquaculture practices that improve sustainability.

2.5 Genomics and Biotechnology – Both knowledge and its application through technology are vital for fostering sustainable development of aquatic resources. Adoption of leading-edge genomics research and biotechnology tools improve DFO's ability to protect endangered species, manage opening and closing of fisheries, avoid over exploitation of resources, prosecute poachers, improve aquaculture practices, control disease outbreaks, remediate contaminated sites, and develop the knowledge necessary to support regulation and risk assessments of aquatic organisms with novel traits.

3. Healthy and Productive Aquatic Econsystems:

3.1 Fish Habitat - Activities such as oil and gas exploration, development and production, forestry, mining, hydroelectric power generation and agriculture, which operate in or around marine and freshwater aquatic environments have the potential to impact fish and fish habitat. Long range transport and point source introductions of contaminants and toxic substances also pose significant threats to aquatic ecosystems and their resources. The Science program provides scientific advice on the potential impacts, mitigation measures, risks, and on regulations in support of the habitat management authorities identified in the Fisheries Act, the Policy for the Management of Fish Habitat, Species at Risk Act, Oceans Act, Navigable Waters Protection Act,and the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act.

3.2 Aquatic Ecosystems – Multiple and sometimes conflicting use of oceans necessitates that the integrated management of resources be informed by sound science advice. The Science program provides advice, information, and data management services to support the government's integrated management of aquatic ecosystems, such as the delineation of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) through ocean mapping, preparation of ecosystem overview and status reports on Large Ocean Management Areas (LOMAs), and frameworks of ecological and biologically significant ocean areas.

3.3 Ocean Climate – Interaction between the oceans, ice, and atmosphere are a fundamental part of the earth's global climate system. As a nation that borders on three interconnected oceans, Canada, together with the international community, has a vested interest in understanding the role of oceans in global climate and the impacts of climate change on aquatic ecosystems. Science efforts are directed towards enabling prediction of ocean responses to climatic change, and the assessment of potential impacts on marine environments, ecosystems, fish, and marine mammal populations.

Regional Offices
Regional Directors General are responsible for Program Delivery in meeting the mandate of the Department under the functional guidance of the Deputy Minister, the SADM and the ADMs. Assistant Commissioners are responsible for Program Delivery in meeting the mandate of the Coast Guard Agency under the direction of the Commissioner. Each region is described hereunder:

Central and Arctic Region - encompassing Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, the Northwest Territories and Nunavut, it contains about 67% of Canada's freshwater and seven of the 14 largest lakes in the world, emphasizing cleanup and preservation initiatives in the Great Lakes. It accounts for about 60% of Canada's recreational fishing which exceeds the commercial fishery catch. Some 50% of the commercial catch is marketed through the Freshwater Fish Marketing Corporation. In marine transportation it directly supports shipping with nearly 200 icebreaking responses, over 1,800 search and rescue responses and it maintains nearly 7,200 navaids. It provides primary marine pollution response North of 60. Search and rescue services in the Great Lakes are provided to the highest concentration of pleasure craft in the country and the Region supports commercial marine traffic to the North American heartland. It also helps bring supplies to the Canadian Arctic and defends Canadian sovereignty in northern waters.

Gulf Region - encompassing the northern and eastern portion of New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and a portion of Nova Scotia adjacent to the Gulf of St. Lawrence. The Region is responsible for the management of many groundfish and pelagic species such as cod, herring, tuna, halibut and flounder. Commercially imported invertebrates' species found throughout the Region include lobster, snow crab, and molluscs such as oysters, mussels, clams, and scallops. In addition, several of the southern Gulf tributaries act as important spawning rivers for anadromous species including Atlantic salmon, trout, and alewife. The DFO Regional Office is located in Moncton, N.B., with three area offices which are located in Tracadie-Sheila, N.B., Charlottetown, P.E.I., and Antigonish, N.S. With 12,300 commercial fish harvesters and over 4, 000 vessels involved in the southern Gulf of St. Lawrence fishery, the approximate landings of fish products for 2005 were 158,000 metric tons worth 393 million dollars. The majority of fish harvesters land their catches at DFO harbour facilities located at 122 communities in the Region.

Québec Region – Delimited by the province's boundaries, the Québec Region counts a total of approximately 6 000 km of coastline. The Region includes the St. Lawrence River, the Estuary, a portion of the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the coastal waters of the Magdalen Islands. In Nunavik, the Region includes eastern James Bay, eastern Hudson Bay, the southern portion of Hudson Strait and Ungava Bay. Its principle activities are associated with the St. Lawrence River, a navigable waterway that stretches 1600 km from the Atlantic Ocean to Montréal and receives the waters of an impressive number of tributaries. Ice-covered from December to April, the St. Lawrence River remains accessible 12 months per year. In the fisheries sector, there are more than 3500 fish harvesters and fisher harvester's helpers, close to 1600 boats, some 100 fish processing plants and more than 200 small craft harbours. Activities tied to the scientific study of the marine environment, to oceans and coastal areas management and fish habitat management are carried out at Mont-Joli, at the Maurice Lamontagne Institute. The work accomplished there by the Science Branch and Oceans and Habitat Branch supplies data essential to better understanding and managing aquatic ecosystems, assessing the impact of human activities on these ecosystems and ensuring waterway safety. The multidisciplinary teams based at Mont-Joli are particularly interested in the fisheries, navigation, fish habitat in marine and freshwater environments, the management and protection of resources and aquatic systems, aquaculture, and marine mammals. The Department of Fisheries and Oceans oversees all of the marine fisheries in the Region, with the exception of the anadromous fishery and that of catadromous species, which are managed by the government of Québec. With respect to marine transportation, the Coast Guard plays a strategic role by ensuring safe and accessible waterways and by facilitating shipping trade. The Region is responsible for communications and marine traffic on the St. Lawrence River, fixed and floating aids to navigation, icebreaking and flood control. As well, it looks after marine search and rescue, responds to pollution spills and maintains the channel between Montréal and Cap Gribane. These services are delivered through three land bases, one marine search and rescue coordination centre, four Marine Communications and Traffic Service centres, five seasonal rescue stations, six seasonal lifeboat stations located between Trois-Rivières and Valleyfield and pollution control equipment depots in a number of municipalities along the shore. In addition, through its regional Internet portal (www.marinfo.gc.ca), Coast Guard Québec Region provides commercial mariners with access to information essential to a safe transit, for example, information on the shipping channel, including the presence of shoals, obstacles to navigation, ice conditions, the condition of aids to navigation, and the operations and work under way, such as surveying, buoy-tending, dredging, etc. It also takes part in Canadian Arctic resupply operations, supports Canada's sovereignty in northern waters and applies the maritime security program. Lastly, the Region sees to ensuring the safety of mariners and to protecting Canada's marine environments and fishery resources. These activities are all closely tied to the St. Lawrence River, which crosses the entire Québec Region. A segment of the river–some 300 km–consists of a dredged commercial shipping channel, one that is very sinuous, dotted with many natural obstacles and subject to tide as well as to at times unpredictable currents. Some 150 000 ship movements on the St. Lawrence River are recorded each year between Sept-Îles and Montréal. As well, a large number of pleasure craft and tour boats navigate the waterways of Québec. Port activity is also very important, since four of the Canada's major ports are located in the Region. Close to 1800 fixed, electronic and floating aids to navigation are used to indicate to mariners the safe channel and the position of different obstacles. The Québec Region also operates four land-based reference centres for managing a satellite-based Differential Global Positioning System (DGPS) as well as 27 automated operational lighthouses. Each year the Coast Guard receives 1 200 calls for assistance, saving 330 lives, and responds to more than 500 requests within the framework of its icebreaking, vessel escort and flood control operations. The Coast Guard has a broad-spectrum fleet that reflects the diversity of its activities: medium/river icebreakers; navaids tenders; inshore patrol vessels; survey vessels; air-cushion vehicles; coastal trawlers for scientific research, a number of units fitted out for search and rescue, fishery patrols or scientific research missions; and helicopters.

Maritimes Region - The region covers approximately 11,400 km of coastline and encompasses three provinces (New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island) as well as adjacent waters extending to the 200-mile economic zone, and including the southern Gulf of Saint Lawrence. All coastlines within the region are populated and support a considerable level of marine-based activities. These activities include a growing recreational boating industry, a growing cruise industry, high levels of passenger ferry traffic, a growing eco-tourism industry (whale watching, deep sea fishing, sea kayaking), increasing commercial tonnage (including petroleum cargos) and a stable fishery. For example, the region has a very active and diverse commercial fishery on the Bay of Fundy, Gulf of Maine and the Scotian Shelf. This commercial fishery includes 13 612 full and part-time fish harvesters on over 4 449 vessels, some 232 harbours, and a commercial fishery that landed some 310,700 tonnes of product for a preliminary landed value of $648 million dollars in 2006. The majority of fish harvesters land their catches at DFO harbour facilities located at 189 sites in the region. In addition, the aquaculture industry (Maritimes Region) was valued at approximately 268 million dollars in 2005 and has been growing at a rate of 15% per year over the past few years. There are similar fishing industry trends in the southern Gulf of St Lawrence. Coast Guard programs are delivered through three major land bases; 6,000 fixed and floating aids to navigation as well as 5 DGPS transmission sites; a regional fleet consisting of 8 major and 18 small vessels (including 9 lifeboat stations); 6 helicopters with 3 helicopter hangars; 3 Marine Communication and Traffic Services Centres; a Regional Operations Centre; a Joint Rescue Coordination Centre; 6 Inshore Rescue Boat (IRB) Stations; Canso Canal; 4 Emergency response equipment depots; and a volunteer Coast Guard Auxiliary consisting of over 700 members with over 400 vessels. Each year this Region responds to over 1,300 marine SAR incidents and over 200 aeronautical and humanitarian SAR incidents, and saves about 450 lives at sea .

Newfoundland and Labrador Region - encompassing the province of Newfoundland and Labrador along with adjoining marine waters, the shoreline covers nearly 29,000 km. .With more than 95% of the province's communities being scattered along the coast, the economic and social complexion of this region is dominated by the fishery. Traditionally, cod was the dominant species in the commercial fishery. However, since the decline of the groundfish resources in the early '90s the fishery has become largely dependant on shellfish, particularly crab and shrimp. A small but growing high-tech ocean science and technology industry is evident. With the passage of the Oceans Act, DFO has a role to play in all oceans activities. Gales, storms, ice, icebergs and fog are some of the challenges the region faces in delivering its services. In marine transportation, Coast Guard directly supports shipping with nearly 125 icebreaking responses, over 450 search and rescue responses with nearly 400 lives saved, marine communications and traffic services, environmental response and the maintenance of nearly 1,700 navaids. Coast Guard's programs are delivered through a regional fleet consisting of 15 vessels, 75 small crafts and 3 helicopters. As well, CCG coordinates the Coast Guard Auxiliary which is comprised of over 900 members.

Pacific Region –Encompassing the province of British Columbia and the Yukon, the Pacific Region consists of more than 27,000 km of British Columbia coastline and 560,000 square kilometers of ocean. Weather can vary dramatically across the BC coast, which is known internationally as one of the world's wildest coastlines. This broad area is patrolled by a fleet of 15 vessels, two (2) hovercrafts, 11 lifeboats and six (6) helicopters. In marine transportation it directly supports shipping with over 2,900 aeronautical and maritime search and rescue responses, saving 1,400 lives, and maintains more than 1,817 navaids, the majority of which are in remote areas.The region handles a very high volume of vessel traffic, with nearly ½ million vessel movements per year, through its marine communications and traffic services which include 29 remote communications sites, most of which are on mountaintops and accessible only by helicopter. It provides marine pollution response for the shipment of crude which will increase from the current 4 million tonnes at present, to 20 million tonnes upon completion of the Alberta Tar Sands pipeline in 2010. This region also supports commercial, recreational and aboriginal fisheries, the aquaculture industry and significant Canadian oceans science and technology industries. it is entrusted with managing and protecting Pacific marine fish stocks, covering 105 river systems in British Columbia , as well as eight northern transboundary rivers, the Stikine, Taku, Alsek, Chilkat, Whiting, Unuk, Chicamin and Yukon.