Background

In the past, the roles and objectives of Canadian university and DFO scientists were distinct, but the scientific landscape is changing.
A convergence is happening between theoretical concepts of ecosystem integration and the design of techniques that inform integrated management…

…DFO now emphasizes an ecosystem approach for sustaining resources, ecosystem function, and biodiversity in a holistic approach that recognizes the interconnectivity of the ocean.

…University research has expanded to examine the services that marine ecosystems provide and to study the broader context of conservation and sustainability.

These shifts provide a significant opportunity for collaboration.

University scientists can provide expertise in multi-disciplinary oceanography, in new techniques, and in ecosystem-level process studies. DFO scientists provide intriguing real-life applications for theory, offer extensive experience, and provide a mechanism to translate specific recommendations based in research to managers and policy makers.

This convergence in focus has created a unique opportunity for university and government scientists to work in tandem to address problems of basic scientific interest that can also guide ecosystem-based management, which will be a primary driver of the Canadian Healthy Oceans Network.