The Department of Fisheries and Oceans developed this policy framework following public release of a discussion paper in 1983 and of a proposed policy and procedures paper in 1985. In the course of the public discussion that followed, it became clear that an improved approach was needed to manage fish habitat and to consider opposing views before habitat decisions are taken. In particular, it became clear that integrated resource planning, combined with better integration of habitat and fisheries management objectives, must become more widely applied in fish habitat management. Fish habitats can be damaged in ways both obvious and subtle, and by changes big and small. A multimillion dollar hydro project can take its toll on a spawning run of fish, but so can a poorly-installed culvert under a farm lane.
Fish are an important part of Canada's renewable resource base.
The commercial and recreational fisheries contribute several billion dollars annually to the national economy. Fish and their habitats are also a valuable tourist attraction, generating local income quite apart from fishing activities. In addition, there are social benefits that flow from the fishery resource, such as support for traditional lifestyles in remote communities. Finally, to many Canadians, the simple knowledge that the fish are there serves as a strong indicator of a healthy environment. With wise management, habitats may be conserved, restored and developed so that the fisheries resource will provide increasing benefits to the nation in perpetuity.