The operator of this vessel Dark Star was recently convicted of numerous federal fisheries violations. (Fisheries and Oceans Canada)

By Ian Holmes

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‘It’s definitely precedent setting:’ commercial prawn operator fined $250K

Feb 23, 2024 | 9:51 AM

NANAIMO — Prawning in an environmentally sensitive area off the lower Sunshine Coast resulted in a heavy fine and fishing gear seizure against a Delta man.

A recent provincial court sentencing hearing in Sechelt followed the conviction of 13 violations under Canada’s Fisheries Act against Dean Keitsch in connection to incidents in July 2020 off the coastal community on board his vessel Dark Star.

Fisheries officers retrieved more than 550 prawn traps set at the bottom of the Strait of Georgia Glass Sponge Reef Marine Refuge, which is closed to all forms of bottom fishing.

“Its’ very, very sensitive to any human disturbance, particularly setting heavy traps on it. As you put those trips on it, it squishes it, as you pull the traps out, you drag it along the bottom,” Bill van Egteren, fishery officer and primary investigator told NanaimoNewsNOW.

Remnants of environmentally significant sponge reef pulled from a Dark Star prawn trap. (Fisheries and Oceans Canada)

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He said Glass sponge reefs provide habitat and food for countless aquatic species, including salmon, rock fish, crabs and prawns.

During the Jan. 31 sentencing hearing, Fisheries and Oceans Canada noted a member of shíshálh Nation read an impact statement expressing the Nation’s concerns about illegal fishing in the Glass Sponge Reef, which is a globally unique marine refuge.

A Fisheries and Oceans Canada expert also told the court scientific evidence of harm caused by illegal fishing in the protected area.

In addition, the commercial prawn fisherman forfeited $80,000 worth of fishing gear.

van Egteren noted several other violations such as license and log book infractions also resulted in convictions against the operator.

“I think this sends a strong message as well, you’re a first-time offender, but if it’s a significant violation, we’re interested, and we’ll investigate it. This Glass Sponge Reef is very significant.”

While the 60-year-old Keitsch had no prior Fisheries Act convictions, court documents confirmed he’s charged with five additional fisheries violations in the Nanaimo area linked to alleged incidents last May and June.

To report potential fisheries violations, contact the ‘Observe, Record, Report’ line at 1-800-465-4336 or DFO.ORR-ONS.MPO@DFO-mpo.gc.ca.

Glass sponge reefs are predominately located in Howe Sound, while there are also found in local waters east of Gabriola Island and off of Parksville.

Additional information on B.C.’s sponge reefs, including restrictions in place to protect the unique ecosystem, can be found at this link on the Fisheries and Oceans website.

Fisheries and Oceans Canada states sponge reefs process vast amounts of organic carbon and nitrogen into the ocean. (Fisheries and Oceans Canada)

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ian.holmes@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @reporterholmes