Problems of Fisheries Management in Northern Quebec

Abstract

The James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement, signed in 1975, was designed to protect native culture and allow the Cree and Inuit to pursue their subsistence fishing and hunting almost free from government regulations. The land has been zoned: native owned, exclusive areas for native hunting and fishing, with the remaining land also available for traditional activities. Conservation is a theme of the agreement. It is the responsibility of committees with Cree, Inuit and government representatives to monitor environmental and social conditions. The Cree believe their ‘Tally-man’ system is sufficiently sensitive to ensure conservation of fish and game populations. Most fish populations are presently unex- ploited with a predominance of large old fish. These are ideal for subsistence fishing and the native peoples would like to maintain this situation. A native harvest study has revealed some unexpectedly high yields. Conflicts are possible between sports fishing and native fisheries. The agreement may serve as a model for settlements with other native groups, but it is still too early to know whether the integrity of the northern environment can be protected by such legislation.