6 DEPARTMENT OF FISHERIES

ANNUAL REPORT NE'TFOUNDLAND AREA 1 -17'

The 1954 fishing year in was marked by a number of well defined variations in primary production, increased expansion at the processing level, changes in the marketing system affecting salted codfish and a continuance of experimentation. Of singular significance was the emergence of the "fish stick", which spurred additional expansion, as reflected in new plant construction and extension.

On the output side, the year was highlighted by the relative abundance of dodfish on the east coast of the island, which resulted in an exceptionally fruitful trap fishery. Landings at fresh and frozen fish processing establishments also attained new records. By contrast, the trap and hand-lining fisheries in other sections of the province produced but moderate returns, while marked declines were registered in the landings of salmon, mackerel and herring. Total landings of all species for the year were placed at 625.2 million lbs., valued at $15.1 million. This was an increasekof 115.1 X ay-Avf91-3 million lbs., worth ,r.2.8 million, made up almost entirely of cod. SALTED CODFISH

The cod fishery in 1954 yielded returns per unit of effort seldom excelled in the history of Newfoundland. Altogether, cod landings reached the high total of about 460.4 million lbs., valued at 310.2 million. The gain over 1953 was of the order of 111 million lbs., valued at $2.6 million, or 32 percent and 34 percent respectively. Yet, there was no appreciable gain in the number of cod fishermen. The expansion of the frozen fish industry permitted larger quantities of cod to be disposed of in fresh state than was possible in past years. Still, nearly 361 million lbs., or over 78 percent, of the entire cod landings were given the traditional salt cure. In product weight, the year's cure was placed at 615,000 cwts. of light salted and 344,429 cwts. of heavy salted fish. Thus, there occurred an increase of nearly 178,000 cwts. over the 1953 production, made up of about 108,000 cwts. of light salted and 70,000 cwts. of heavy salted fish.

The production increase indicated is wholly ascribable to the pro- lific fishery on the east and northeast coasts of the island, where the trap fishery resulted in a catch which many operators found difficult to process during the drying season. On the other hand, fishermen on the northwest coast had a relatively lean year, while the shores of the south and southwest coasts afforded but average returns. The catch on the Labrador coast was also lower than that of last year, due mainly to the reduction in the number of floaters engaged in the fishery.

The following are comparative production statistics by type of fishery for the years 1953 and 1954. The heavy salted cure is shown in wet weight while the dry salted cure is shown in dry weight. SALTED CODFISH PRODUCTION LIBRARY (cwts. of 112 lbs.) Dept. of Fish cries of 1953 1954 St. John's, Nfld. Light Heavy. Light Heavy Inshore 491,327 180,545 603,435 249,636 Labrador Stationers 16,424 72,146 11,565 91,293 Labrador Floaters - 21,309 - 3,500 Total 507,751 274,000 615,000 344,429 2

FROZEN GROUNDFISH

While the frozen fish industry has experienced a fairly constant growth since the outbreak of war in 1939, considerable added impetus was given to the industry by the relatively recent development of "fish sticks" and the growing demand for fish in block frozen form. Due mainly to the market potential for this new product, 1954 saw the establishment and oper- ation of new freezing facilities at Twillingate, Greenspond, , and Long Harbour, as well as the expansion of existing processing capacity at and Bonavista. hbreover, the construction of two other plants, one at Grand Bank and the other at Catalina, was well under way by the year-end.

The expansion offrozen fish plants was also accompanied by the addition of 11 vessels to the off-shore fishing fleet. Twenty-nine draggers were operated this year compared with 26 in 1953, while 8 vessels were added to the fleet of long-liners and Danish seiners.

Concurrent with these developments, inshore fishermen in many sections of the province were enabled to dispose of larger quantities of fish in the fresh state. Their fishing effort was therefore enhanced and their catch contributed significantly to the upsurge in frozen fish pro- duction.

Frozen groundfish production reached record proportions during the year with estimates placed at 53.6 million lbs. Compared with 1953, the increase is of the order of 56 percent or 19.0 million lbs. Cod, of which nearly 15.0 million lbs. took the form of frozen blocks, was chiefly responsible for the gain. The production of haddock, including hake and pollock, was almost three times as high as in 1953, but rosefish, flounder and greysole registered declines. On a landed basis, the year's output represented about 170.2 million lbs. and a value of $4.1 million, compared with 116.0 million lbs. and 1 .2.7 million last year.

The figures below show the production of frozen groundfish by speciesfor the years 1953 and 1954: 1953 1954 lbs. 1777 Cod 16,756,776 31,542,287 Haddock, Hake, etc. 5,368,161 13,773,070 Rosefish 7,928,866 5,621,674 Flounder & Greysole 4,108,020 2,410,538 Halibut 164,875 174,869 Catfish 100,841 81,926 Total 34,427,539 53,604,364

As in previous years, the U.S. market constituted the main outlet for Newfoundland frozen fish. Prices remained relatively stable throughout the year.

HERRING

The downward trend in the herring fishery during the past few years was again in evidence in 1954. Due mainly to a declining resource, less than 31.0 million lbs. were recorded as landed during the year. In the light of the province's peak landings of 164.0 million lbs. in 1946, the 1954 experience was somewhat discouraging. Compared with last year, the decrease this year was of the order of 6.4 million lbs. or 17 percent. Yet, owing to the production increase in the higher priced areas of the province, together with a significant rise in the price of herring bait, the value of the year's catch reached $350 thousand, to exceed the 1953 results by nearly 8 percent.

Pickled herring production, which is the main form of utilization in the province, amounted to 33,490 bbls., a decrease of over 7 percent from the 36,100 bbls. produced in 1953. Two types of product accounted for the decline, viz., vinegar cured fillets, and "split". 3

The figures below give the production of pickled herring by type of product for the years 1953 and 1954: 1953 1954 bbls. bbls.

Gibbed 46 870 Scotch 860 1,508 B.C. Dressed 12,591 14,828 B.C. Fillets 8,579 9,375 V.C. Dressed 196 104 V.C. Fillets 4,958 2,495 Split 8,659 4,019 Round 211 291

Total 36,100 33,490

Despite the drop in production, a larger number of herring packers operated in 1954 than during the previous year. Licenses issued were 223 and 187 respectively. MACKEREL Mackerel, which has never featured highly in the province's total landings, contributed little to fishermen's incomes in 1954. Mainly because of the scarcity of supplies, the year's returns of about 2.1 million lbs., valued at about $100 thousand, represented less than half the volume and value of the 1953 catch. As in former years, the pickled cure was the main form of utilization. SALMON (Commercial)

The salmon fishery also provided meagre returns to fishermen in 1954, due mainly to the late retreat of the ice from the Labrador and the northeast coast of the province. Altogether, only about 2.4 million lbs. were landed valued at $584 thousand. Compared with 1953, the reductions are 0.7 million lbs. and $121 thousand respectively.

Of the quantity landed, over 2.0 million lbs., or 86 percent, were marketed in fresh or frozen state. The balance of the catch was either pickled or canned. Only 3,551 cases were reported canned, reflecting the rapidly declining interest in canning operations in the industry. LOBSTER

The lobster fishery proved relatively rewarding to Newfoundland fishermen in 1954, despite adverse weather and the late opening season on the northeast coast. About 5.2 million lbs. were landed for an increase of about 0.7 million lbs., or 16 percent, over that of the previous year. In value terms, this represented approximatel -r $1.3 million for fishermen as against $1.2 million in 1953.

As in the past, the greater proportion of the year's catch was marketed in the live form. About 4.4 million lbs., or nearly 90 percent, were marketed in this state, in comparison with 4.0 million lbs. in 1953. The U.S. was again the main buyer and market conditions remained fairly favourable throughout the year. Fishermen averaged about 25(f per lb. as compared with 26¢ in 1953.

The production of canned lobsters was again negligible, amounting to only 885 cases. SQUID

There was a significant increase in the landings of souid in 1954. The catch was estimated at 15.1 million lbs., almost double the 8.3 million 4

lbs. recorded in 1953. Supplies for bait purposes were satisfactory in all areas of the province. TURBOT

The results of the turbot fishery compared favourably with operations in 1953. Landings were placed at about 1.2 million lbs., as against 1.1 million lbs. last year. Nearly the entire catch was pickled for sale on the Canadian Mainland. FISH MEAL The production of fish meal for the year was estimated at about 20.0 million lbs., indicating an advance of about 32 percent over the 1953 production. Increases were registered in all types of meal products, except homogenized fish which lost nearly all statistical significance.

The figures below give the meal production by type of product for the years 1953 and 1954:

1953 1954 lbs. lbs.

Whitefish meal ) Rosefish meal ) 8,033,401 15,564,760 Herring meal 2,774,800 4,215,500 Homogenized fish 4,301,249 106,000 Total 15,109,450 19,886,260

MARINE OILS In view of the prolific cod fishery and the improved market outlook for marine oils in 1954, there was a significant increase in marine oil pro- duction. Altogether, nearly 1.3 million gals. were produced during the year, compared with less than 1.0 million gals. in 1953. The greatest increase by far was in the output of cod liver oil, which rose nearly 400,000 gals. from the 519,000 gals. produced last year. Minor increases were reported for rose- fish and herring oils, with actual declines in seal and whale oils.

The following figures give the production of oils by type for the years 1953 and 1954: 1953 1954 gals. gals.

Cod liver oil 519,000 900,000 Rosefish (bream) oil 14,236 28,356 Herring oil 116,974 168,000 Seal II 232,722 99,625 Whale t/ 108,839 61,201 ---___—__ Total 991,771 1,257,182

SEALS Little evidence is left of the traditional seal fishery in Newfoundland. Only 3 vessels operated in 1954 along the Straits of Belle Isle and on the east coast of Newfoundland and of Labrador. Seals were relatively plenfiful and a total of 28,928 seals was discharged by the three vessels. In net value, the seal hunt represented $55 thousand. By comparison, 7 vessels operated in 1953 and discharged 80,336 seals for a net value of $163 thousand. Landsmen took over 38,000 seals this year as against 26,000 last year. 5

The following are comparative seal statistics for the years 1953 and 1954: 1953 1954

Auxiliary Vessels 7 3 Men 405 207 Catch (No. of seals) 80,336 28,928 Specification of Catch: Young Harps 74,615 26,024 Old Harps 2,655 967 Bedlamers 1,837 1,923 Young Hoods 798 11 Old Hoods 431 3

TAMALES

The activity in the whale fishery was again relatively insignificant in 1954. Operations were confined to Dildo, Trinity Bay, with the two whaling factories at Talliamsport and Hawkes Harbour inoperative throughout the year.

BAIT SERVICE All bait depots were operated without interruption throughout the year, and an adequate supply of frozen bait was available to fishermen at all times. Because of the unusually successful cod-trap fishery on the east and northeast coasts, fishermen were occupied longer than usual in curing their early catch, so that frozen bait for trawls was in relatively small demand. In other sections, however, the availability of frozen bait at times when fresh bait was unobtainable, enabled fishermen to fish as often and as late in the season as they wished. The facilities of the depots were also made available for the freezing and storing of mink feed, meats and fish for local consumption. Sufficient quantities of herring were frozen at depots on the south- west coast to meet recuirements until the arrival of new stocks this spring. Due to ice and weather conditions during the late spring and early summer, the herring run on the northeast coast was limited, and only small quantities were available for freezing in this area.

The caplin run was not as prolific as in 1953. However, sufficient stocks were frozen to take care of immediate requirements, including the fall turbot fishery. As was the case last year, squid were again plentiful throughout the season in most sections of the island. In addition to freezing sufficient supplies for local requirements, all depots located in areas where squid were available froze reserve stocks to meet the requirements of the fall and winter fishery on the southwest coast. Supplies proved adequate until the arrival of fresh herring supplies. The new depot at Old Perlican, Trinity Bay, the construction of which was commenced in September, 1953, was completed and put into operation during the year. Results to date have been encouraging, and it is anticipated that the catch of commercial species made possible by bait supplied from the depot will show a substantial increase in the Old Perlican, Grate's Cove, and ad- joining fishing areas during 1955-56. The refrigerated carrier m.v. "ARCTICA" was continually engaged throughout the year in freezing bait supplies and transferring frozen stocks to the various depots when required. Early in April, the ship was assigned for a period to patrolling the Port aux Basques area when foreign draggers were reported fishing near territorial waters. The vessel also continued to make recordings relative to the movements of herring, etc., along the various sections of the coast in which she operated. 6

During the year, the depots at Twillingate, Bonavista and Grand Bank, were leased to Messrs. H.B. Clyde Lake Limited and the Bonavista Cold Storage Company respectively, on terms and conditions similar to those applying in the case of the Long Harbour and Greenspond depots„which were leased to Fishery Products Limited in 1953-54: These depots, in addition to being used for frozen fish operations ) continue to provide bait to fishermen in conformity with the other depots operated by the Department. Early in the year it became known that the United Cold Storage Company intended to discontinue operating a bait service in the Burin area. In order to maintain an adequate bait supply for this particular locality and, at the reouest of the majority of fishermen, the plant was leased by the Department for a period of VI months commencing August 16, 1954. Since the plant went into operation, approximately 125,000 lbs. of frozen squid were sold to fishermen in the area. The results of the Department's action in this matter have proven both beneficial and satisfactory to the fishing industry on the Burin Peninsula.

On April 1st, 1954, stocks of frozen bait held in storage amounted to 698,000 lbs. During the year, purchases of bait totalled 2.5 million lbs4 which were about 500,000 lbs. less than in 1953. Total sales amounted to 2.9 million lbs. compared with 2.7 million lbs. in the previous year. INSPECTION BRANCH Fresh and Frozen Fish The rapid growth of the fresh and frozen fish industry necessitated the revision of regulations relative to the licensing and operation of fresh and frozen fish plants, in Srder to keep pace with modern developments in fish processing. New proposed regulations were drafted during the year and personnel were trained to carry them out. The fresh fish inspection staff was increased from 5 to 17, and, in November, a four week course of instruction was given at St. John's. Several trips were made on draggers by some inspectors during 1954, in order to observe methods of handling and icing fish at sea j and to give advice to operators relative to improving the quality of fresh fish landings.

Salt Fish

During 1954-55, the Inspection staff carried out 4,516 inspections, for which certificates were issued. These inspections were made on light and heavy salted codfish and scale fish, pickled herring, pickled turbot and dried sauid. Numerous inspections were also conducted in fresh fish processing plants for which no certificates were required. In addition, a total of 561 separate inspections were carried out on canneries, cooperages, herring packing factories, etc. prior to licensing. The quantity of fish by species inspected during the year, excluding fresh fish, was as follows: light salted cod and related species 55,799,408 lbs; heavy salted cod and related species 11,666,70L lbs; pickled herring 6,919,875 lbs; pickled turbot 704,200 lbs; and dried sauid 22,800 lbs, This re- presents an overall total of 75,112,987 lbs. In spite of the large catch and relatively poor drying conditions, the quality of the dried product in 1954 compared favourably with the results of the previous year. Specific and General Services The Department's special service to Labrador fishermen was continued in 1954. Two officers spent approximately five months on the Labrador coast, giving advice and assistance to fishermen in the production of the best possible product. These officers were also required to enforce the provisions of the Culling Regulations and to collect fisheries statistics.

7

Other duties of the Inspection staff during the year included: the inspection of premises where fish or fishery products are processed; the inspection of pickled fish of various kinds; the inspection of marine oils; the enforcement of lobster regulations as a conservation measurer the inspection of cooperages and packages used for the export of fishery products, with special emphasis upon the improvement of quality and con- dition of packages; and the collection of statistics.

FISH INSPECTION LABORATORY The Fish Inspection Laboratory is the scientific arm of the In- spection Service. During 1954-55, a total of 1,700 samples were received for analyses and examination, 1,276 samples being for chemical and 424 for bacterial tests.

Samples of Chemical Nature

The samples for chemical examination were received from four sources, viz., the Department of Fisheries, the Fisheries Research Board of Canada, the Provincial Government and commercial firms. An account of the normal work performed by the laboratory is given below:

Salt Fish Moisture and Chloride (Salt), Fresh Fish Trimethylarnine and pH. Canned Fish Weight and condition of contents, vacuum in can, condition of can. Fishery Salts Moisture and Chloride. Fish Meals Fish Solubles ) Moisture, Protein, Salt, Fat, Calcium, Homogenized Fish ) Ash. Fish Oils Vitamin A, free fatty acid, impurities. Water pH. ..■■■•■■■•=ww The types of samples and the sources from which received were as follows:

Department of Fisheries

Fresh & Frozen Salt Fish Canned Fish Fishery Salts Shellfish Total Fish 626 155 33 5 27 846 Fisheries Research Board

Fresh Fish Salt Fish Smoked Fish Miscellaneous Total

108 8 8 5 129 Provincial Government

Salt Fish Water Serum Total

2 10 4 16 Commercial Firms

Fish Fish Solubles & Fish Fishery Meals Homogenized Fish Oils Salts Salt Fish Miscellaneous Total 52 24 165 22 5 17 285 The revenue received from commercial firms for sample analyses amounted to $1,770.00. 8

Samples of Bacteriological Nature

The bacterial samples were the result of the inspection of all fresh and frozen fish plants in the province. Thorough swabbing of these plants was made, including filleting lines, bread batter, workers' hands, etc. Samples were also taken in boats and trucks used as fish carriers. Moreover, thorough inspections were made of available sanitation facilities.

The total number of samples taken during this work was 424, in- volving 848 separate determinations.

Swabs from Water Samples Fish Samples for Plants for M.P.N. Escherichia coli Total

283 85 56 424 Instruction Course

An intensive instruction course for fresh and frozen fish in- spectors was given during the month of November 137 officials from Ottawa, the Maritimes and Newfoundland. The purpose of this course was to ac- quaint inspectors with the proposed new fresh and frozen fish regulations, as well as with present technological trends in the industry. The latter included instructions on fish freezing, fish spoilage, and sanitation. Special emphasis was placed on fish spoilage during laboratory periods, when attempts were made to correlate physical factors in fish with the chemical evaluation of spoilage. The species of fish used for these analyses were cod, haddock, flounder, rosefish and sole.

Controlled Spoilage Experiments

During the year, five experiments were conducted to assess the preservative qualities of perfectly fresh fish. The species of fish used were shore cod, bank cod, haddock, rosefish and flounder. Fresh fish was iced in aluminum boxes and throughout a ten to twelve day period, examin- ations were made of the appearance of gills, stomach wall, backbone and odour. Some fillets were chemically tested, while others were cooked and taste-tested in an endeavour to correlate the phveical, chemical and or- ganoleptic factors, CONSERVATION BRANCH

Inland Fisheries - Angling Effort & Catch

Salmon landings by sportsmen showed a decline this year in com- parison with 1953. A total of 9,513 fish was taken, of which 8,759 were caught in Newfoundland rivers and 754 in the Eagle and Forteau Rivers of Labrador. This catch totalled 47,718 lbs., giving an average weight of 5.01 lbs. By comparison, the total landings in 1953 were 15,983 fish, averaging 4.6 lbs. in weight.

The decline in landings was attributed to a number of factors. Foremost amongst these were high water levels, late runs of fish, pre- vailing easterly winds and poor angling weather generally. Information on the number of salmon entering the rivers in 1954 compared with previous years is somewhat inconclusive.

Protection

A total of 144 men were employed in protection during the year, consisting of 34 wardens and 110 guardians. This force compared with 36 wardens and 91 guardians last year. 9

The protection service was this year extended to the southern Labrador coast as a result of the 1953 survey of salmon rivers in that area. Two wardens with assistants covered the coast in boats from St. Mary's River to Cartwright, and guardians were placed on each of the Forteau and Pinware Rivers. There were 18 prosecutions for breaches of the Salmon and Trout Regulations. Labrador Survey

The survey of Labrador salmon rivers, begun in 1953, was con- tinued this year, and a party covered the area from Hamilton Inlet to Nain Bay. Thus, a preliminary survey has now been made of all the major, and practically all of the minor rivers from Forteau to Nain. The base of operations was the Department's m4v. "EASTERN EXPLORER", from which the party travelled many miles inland. River Improvements

The 1954 season saw the completion of the Terra Nova river im- provement project in time for the salmon run, so that for the first time fish coming in from the ocean had access to Terra Nova Lake, its tributary streams, the upper Terra Nova River and the watershed of Maccles Lake. This project involved three fishways. A salmon "ladder" was also com- pleted at Middle Brook, Gambo, enabling the migrating fish to surmount a falls which hitherto was almost impassable. Off-season Activities In October, 16 wardens were transferred to the Provincial Depart- ment of Mines & Resources for winter employment. The 17 remaining men were employed on various projects during the winter and spring months five cabins were built and preparations were made to construct two others with the opening of navigation in the spring; sundry repairs were made to existing cabins and boats; trails were cut and corduroyed; assistance was provided in a survey of a proposed water supply for the experimental fish plant at Valleyfield; and local investigations were carried out to determine salmon and trout runs. A survey was also made by helicopter of some of the rivers of the to determine the extent to which beavers were obstructing the passage of fish. Patrol Boats All patrol boats were employed throughout the year along the New- foundland and Labrador coasts. In the main, the boats were engaged in pro- viding transportation for field staff engaged in such work as codfish, herring and lobster inspection and conservation, fishery surveys, Fishermen's Indemnity Fund operations and the collection of statistics. The boats equipped with depth recorders were also employed for locating schools of herring. In addition, some of the boats were called upon to perform certain mercy missions, such as conveying sick persons to centres where medical assistance could be provided. Forty-eight other, smaller boats were also chartered for a few months for conveying personnel engaged in lobster inspection and in pro- tection work on salmon rivers. m.v. "EASTERN EXPLORER" During the early part of the year the m.v."EASTERN EXPLORER" was engaged in distributing bait on the south coast. F011owing the completion of this work, the vessel patrolled the southwest coast from to Port aux Basques as a safeguard against infringements of the territorial water limits by foreign fishing vessels. During the summer months, the vessel - 10- was engaged in a survey of salmon rivers on the northern Labrador coast, Then, upon returning to St. John's, it was surveyed with respect to pro- posed renovations involving the installation of staterooms, a saloon and a refrigerated room. Subsequently, this work was carried out at the Clarenville Shipyards, along with substantial repairs. m.v. "CINDERELLA" This boat also underwent substantial repair in 1954. The main job consisted of putting in place an entirely new stern structure. The work was carried out at Marystown. The following is a summary of activities during 1954: Name of Boat Port of Operation Area Patrolled Boltenia , Hermitage Bay Winter: Pass Island to Ramea on south coast. Spring to Fall: northeast coast and Labrador.

Point May , West side Fortune Bay, from to . Porella Bay L'Argent, Fortune Bay Rencontre East to Fortune. Nebalia Burin, Placentia Bay Winter: Clattice Harbour to Lamaline, Spring -be. Fall: northeast coast and Labrador. Aurelia Hickman's Harbour, Trinity Winter: Trinity Bay. Bay Spring and Fall: northeast coast. Cinderella Harbour Buffett, Placentia Placentia Bay inside a Bay line drawn from Argentia to Lamaline. Other areas as and when required. Louise Ruth Curling, Bay of Islands Bay of Islands and on occasions to Bonne Bay, St. Barbe District.

Fishboard Little Bay Islands, Notre Spring to Fall: LaScie to Dame Bay Fortune Harbour.

Crago Port aux Basques Spring to Fall: Cape LaHune to Cape Ray on south coast (Inland Fisheries Patrol).

Pecten Rencontre East, Fortune Bay Spring to Fall: Cape LaHune to Garnish on south coast and Fortune Bay (Inland Fisheries Patrol). Sabenia Flower's Cove, St. Barbe Spring to Fall: Port Saunders District tin northwest coast to St. Anthony.

INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT BRANCH Community Surveys During the summer of 1954, community surveys of 15 settlements of the province were carried out, to assess the potentialities of such centers for fishery development. The settlements covered were: Garnish, Belleoram, Trepassey, Piccadilly, Conche, Englee, Nipper's Harbour, Moreton's Harbour, Bridgeport, Catalina, Port Union, , , and Bay Bulls. Long-liner Exploratory Fishing The long-liner exploratory fishing programme was continued in 1954, for the purpose of discovering new fishing grounds and determining the potentiality of the long-lining method of fishing on grounds previously explored. Two boats operated out of Ramea on a commercial basis from January to April, 1954. As yet, there is insufficient evidence to show whether the capital cost involved in the construction of modern long-liners is justified in this area. The experiment has, however, already encouraged the firm of J. Penny & Sons Limited, to enter into long-lining operations on a commercial basis. The company is employing converted "jack" boats, which have been adapted to long-lining at moderate cost. Two boats operated out of Badger's Quay from June to mid-October. The results were encouraging, with one boat landing approximately 836,000 lbs. of gutted, head-on cod. Exploratory fishing in the Bonavista area, which began in 1952, was completed in 1954. Good catches were obtained in deep-off-shore water but, as was the case in 1952, the best catches were realized on the grounds off Funk Island. A survey of the waters around LaScie was commenced in 1952 and completed in 1954. Good catches were obtained in August on grounds thirty to sixty miles from LaScie. However, the overall results supported the evidence of the 1952 experiments, which revealed that suitable grounds, within reach of LaScie, could more easily be fished from Twillingate at a distance of approximately ten miles off the coast. Shoal water grounds from Cape Rose to Cape St. Mary's were fished by two boats operating on an experimental basis from September to October. Catches of 1,000 to 2,000 pounds per tub were obtained on most of the grounds fished. Since experiments began in 1950, most of the suitable waters of Newfoundland have been explored, and extensive new fishing grounds, with abundant supplies of fish, have been discovered. Joint Federal-Provincial Community Development Projects Work has commenced in Quirpon on the joint Federal and Provincial experiment in community co-operation. The marine works were nearing com- pletion by the year-end, and the Provincial Government have been working out the nature of the operation and the requirements of the plant which is to be erected. The joint Federal and Provincial experiment in community co-operation at Seldom, which is similar although larger than the Quirpon experiment, met with delays due to difficulties encountered in the selection of a suitable site.

Bonavista Salt Fish Experimental Plant

During 1954, the salt fish experimental plant accepted for processing the equivalent of 8,000 dry quintals of fish. The experiment yielded a high quality output of both light and heavy salted fish. The work of drying the fish was continued on into 1955. 12

The costing of the operation was carried out by a cost accountant on loan from the Federal Department of Health.

Valleyfield Salt Fish Experimental Plant Work on the formation of a site for the experimental plant at Valleyfield commenced in November, but was limited to drilling operations prior to blasting. The plant, when it goes into operation, is to have among its personnel scientists and technicians to engage in research con- cerning alternative ways of processing codfish. Problems pertaining to the production, storage, transportation and marketing of fish are also to be investigated. In addition to the actual plant, the construction of a staff house and a number of residences for scientific and technical personnel is also proposed. MARKETING

It was announced on March 22, 1954, that matters pertaining to marketing would from April 1, 1954, be the responsibility of the Federal Department of Trade and Commerce and other phases of the Newfoundland fisheries would continue to be the responsibility of the Federal Department of Fisheries. This announcement also stated that the Newfoundland Associated Fish Exporters Limited (NAFEL) would retain its sole marketing rights for a period of three years from March 31st, 1954, subject to certain conditions and further modifidations in the marketing system. Sales of saltbulk and pickled fish in wet state were permitted, on approval of the Newfoundland Fisheries Board, to the Canadian Mainland and Continental United States, without the intervention of NAFEL. A further modification in the marketing system pro-iided for the acceptance of associate members by NAFEL on appropriate financial terms. It was also agreed that the Newfoundland trade would undertake, early in the season, to pay minimum prices to fishermen to be agreed on with the Government of Canada. This agreement also contained a system for sharing market returns similar to that announced in September, 1953. The Consultative Committee on salt fish marketing, established in July, 1953, continued in operation throughout the year. This committee, which is convened by the Newfoundland Fisheries Board and consists of re- presentatives of the fishermen and NAFEL, keeps the marketing of salt fish under continuous review.

It was announced on March 22nd, 1954, that the Federal Government would pay a deficiency payment on the 1953 production of shore dried fish and saltbulk but that payment would not be made for Genuine Labrador. This payment was to be made to the Provincial Government as partial repayment of advances made by them to fishermen. The market sharing arrangement respecting the returns from the 1953 production of salt codfish was reviewed as the season progressed and, early in Mayan interi:n settlement was made, based on returns from sales to that date. A subsequent review of the position in September revealed that the final market returns did not permit any increase in the payments announced in May, and the 1953 arrangement was, therefore, brought to a close.

Consideration was also given to the 1954 production at the meetings held early in May between representatives of the trade, fishermen's organi- zations and Federal Government officials and, while specific assessment of market returns could not be made at that time, it was agreed to recommend certain minimum advance payments to fishermen for light salted hard dried codfish, on the understanding that the position would be reviewed later in the season. It was agreed that the 1954 arrangement for sharing market returns, in somewhat revised form, would apply to all types of salted cod including Genuine Labrador but not including saltbulk. As far as heavy salted Genuine Labrador is concerned, competition this year has been so keen that fishermen have already got all that the - 13 -

market will pay. No arrangement was needed, therefore, for advance payments because the market had taken care of the price level. However, the principle of sharing the returns from the sales of Labrador fish will be followed if prices rise in the future to the level that would make the agreement of value to the fishermen.

Trade agreements entered into between Canada and Spain and Canada and Portugal, following a Canadian mission to these important salt fish markets, became effective July 1st, 1954, and opened up a potential annual market for 100,000 quintals of Newfoundland salt cod. FISHERMEN'S INDEMNITY FUND

The Fishermen's Indemnity Fund. was inaugurated in the Newfoundland Area in July, 1953, to provide insurance protection for fishing vessels, and was expanded during the 1954/55 lobster fishing season to provide similar coverage for lobster traps. Lobster Trap Indemnity Regulations Some difficulty was experienced in acquainting Newfoundland fishermen with details of these regulations, owing to the isolated nature of many of the province's lobster fishing areas and the fact that the regu- lations became effective only shortly before the opening of the lobster fishing season. Arrangements were made for six fisheries officers of the Inspection Branch to assist the Indemnity Fund personnel in this work. With this assistance, all districts were covered and a total of 41,981k!" traps were insured. Losses of insured traps amounted to 13,729, or approxi- mately 33%, for which claims amounting to $13,826 were paid. Total premium collections amounted to $3,854.59.

Losses during the 1954 season ) on the west coast and certain sections of the east coast, were unusually high due to weather and ice conditions. The benefits provided by the regulations were y therefore, all the more important to fishermen. As a result of the 1954 experience, certain changes in the regulations and administrative procedures are being con- sidered. Fishing Vessel Indemnity Regulations Fishing vessel insurance continued to be accepted and appreciated by many fishermen in 1954/55. An additional 581 boats were insured, having a total appraised value of $522,380, while 485 renewal policies were issued, valued at $416,876.

Twelve total loss claims were approved for which a total of $20,231.70 was paid out in indemnity payments. There were also fifteen partial damage claims approved involving total payments of $1,807.29. Total claims payments during the year, therefore, amounted to $22,038.99.

Certain minor changes in the regulations were found necessary, and others may have to be made eventually in fashioning the best possible type of small boat insurance for fishermen. As with the lobster trap plan, the main problem of execution in Newfoundland stems from the isolation of hundreds of fishing communities and the difficulties of travel. Thus, it is difficult for a staff of nine appraisers to cover both the island part of the province and Labrador. INFORMATION AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES

The Newfoundland Area Branch of the Information and Educational Services carried out, in the field, the responsibilities embodied in the broad framework of services provided by Headquarters on a national level. These may be summarized as follows: 14

Liaison with News Media Local news media, both press and radio, look upon the Department as being a lively source of news. As a consequence, the newspapers and radio news bulletins make frequent enquiries, either through personal con- tact or by telephone. To this must be added the occasional press releases which are distributed to all media, and the periodic visits to newspaper and radio offices. A number of requests was received during the year for photographs which were supplied either here or through files maintained at Headquarters. The special services rendered to the Fishermen's Broadcast were continued throughout the year. These included the supplying of seasonal and year-round fish prices prevailing in all districts, and general fisheries' news. In addition, officers of the Department made periodic guest appearances on the Broadcast to discuss fisheries subjects. In this respect, a special series of broadcasts was given in January by Branch heads dealing,comprehensively with the work of the Department in the New- foundland Area during 1954, together with the fishing effort and overall results. Two officials from Ottawa and another of the Food & Agricultural Organization of the United Nations were also heard on the Broadcast during the year.

Requests for Information A large number of requests was received from students, other individuals and organizations. Some enquiries dealt exclusively with Area matters while others involved more general aspects of Canadian fisheries. The widespread sources and nature of these enquiries indicated the existence of a lively interest in Newfoundland fisheries both within and outside the province,

Educational Film Programme Early in the year, plans were implemented, with the assistance of the National Film Board, for an extension of our educational film pro- gramme to fishermen. Field personnel of the Inspection and Conservation Branchesj particularly the former, played an important part in this work. Training in the use of projection equipment was given to 25 members of the staff. Equipment, including projectors, screens, etc. was supplied by the National Film Board. In the selection of films, emphasis was placed on those dealing with fisheries. However, these being limited, other pro- grammes were carefully selected featuring social, industrial and scientific aspects and resources of Canada. In addition to benefitting the people to whom they were shown, the film programme did much to foster feelings of co- operation with our field staff and goodwill towards the Department. In January, a series of educational films was inaugurated for the staff in St. John's, consisting of one showing each month. A number of showings was also held in conjunction with instructional courses at Headquarters. Altogether, approximately 145 showings were given. Material for Departmental Publications Some 18 contributions were submitted for Departmental publications, particularly "Trade News", consisting of 8 articles and 10 short items. Where possible, they were accompanied by illustrative photographs. Topics dealt with included the aeal fishery, the Department's helicopter service, the annual visit of the Portuguese fishing fleet, river improvement work, the Newfoundland fisheries generally, squid jigging, etc. A total of approximately 125 photographs was submitted to Headquarters. Departmental Reports Principal amongst these reports are the Annual Report to Head- quarters, the Annual Review of Area activities, which is distributed to all - 15 -

news media (but is prepared at the special request of the "Daily News"), and the Monthly Report to Headquarters. Compilation of the first two reports is carried out by the In- formation Service and the Economics & Statistics Branch, on the basis of summaries of Branch activities provided by the respective Branch heads. The Monthly Report is compiled by the Information Service from similar summaries. The Information Service is also responsible for the monthly "Staff Newsletter" which is prepared primarily for the staff in the field.

General During the year,a number of visits was made to the Fisheries Research Station to discuss various matters with the staff and obtain scientific information for articles. Two movie shows were conducted for the staff of the Station, and one of the scientists made a guest appearance on the Fishermen's Broadcast. Arrangements were also made for personnel of the Broadcast to make two short trips on a Research Station vessel to make recordings of activities at a hydrographic station. More extensive liaison with the Station was curbed by pressure of other duties. Assistance was given several film crews from the National Film Board who were interested in recording fisheries' activities. Assistance of a publicity nature was also given the Board in connection with the premiere of the film "High Tide in Newfoundland".