Leatherback turtle in Atlantic Canada (Dermochelys coriacea) recovery strategy: chapter 14


Appendix B – Schedule of Studies to Identify Critical Habitat

In the absence of sufficient information on habitat use to identify the critical habitat of leatherback turtles in Atlantic Canadian waters within this recovery strategy, SARA requires under section 41.1c.1 that a "Schedule of Studies" be prepared. The research activities in the following table target key knowledge gaps on the habitat requirements of this species while seasonally resident or migrating through Canadian waters. Accompanying each activity is an assessment of the overall priority, potential partners, and estimated timing. It is hoped that implementing the following schedule will yield information to eventually allow for the critical habitat for this species to be described. It is important to note that activities outlined in this schedule are subject to priorities and budgetary constraints of the participating jurisdictions and organizations. Consequently, these activities may not necessarily be completed within the timelines as established below.

Research Activities Priority Start Date
2006
Estimated Timing
Yr 1 Yr 2 Yr 3 Yr 4 Yr 5
Critical habitat identification
Evaluate the spatial and temporal distribution and foraging ecology of leatherback turtles in Canadian waters.
Primary
ongoing
×
×
×
×
×
Conduct satellite telemetry studies to identify seasonal foraging areas in Atlantic Canadian waters and migratory routes in the Western Atlantic.
Primary
ongoing
×
×
×
×
×
Identify prey species and assess their spatial and temporal distribution in Canadian waters.
Primary
ongoing
×
×
×
×
×
Identify and model oceanographic processes that influence the spatial and temporal leatherback distribution in Canadian waters.
Secondary
ongoing
×
×
×
×
×

Note: Potential partners for the above activities could include but are not limited to the following :

  • Department of Fisheries and Oceans
  • Nova Scotia Leatherback Turtle Working Group
  • Dalhousie University
  • Memorial University of Newfoundland
  • National Marine Fisheries Service
  • Aboriginal People Representatives
  • Other Non-Governmental Environmental/Research Organizations

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