Perspectives and Policy Recommendations on the Relevance of the Stock Concept to Fishery Management

Abstract

The Stock Concept International Symposium (STOCS) addressed a broad range of concerns about the relationship between intraspecific stocks and their genetic and environmental origins. STOCS produced an understanding of the stock concept that makes it possible to develop operational stock definitions reflecting the key elements of concern to fishery managers. These definitions can change as circumstances dictate because stocks represent states in a dynamic process. Extensive life history information available for Great Lakes fish provides a basis for estimating the significance of intraspecific stock structure in management of these species. Recognition of the potential for stock formation is important for evaluating the impact of management actions and for planning the restoration of individual species in fishery rehabilitation programs. Finally, we present a brief set of recommendations for research and management based on our perception of the stock concept and its relevance to fish community rehabilitation.Key words: fish stocks, fishery rehabilitation