The Department of Fisheries and Oceans has released its assessment for the northern cod stock, and there is the potential for stock growth.

According to DFO, the stock is still considered in the critical zone, noting that the spawning stock biomass is now at 52 per cent of the limit reference point. Because the stock is still in the critical zone, the advice is to keep removals from all sources as low as possible in the upcoming year.

Prospects for growth of the stock are being described as limited, owing to forecasted low levels of capelin over the next two years. However, DFO notes that there is about a 52-59 per cent chance there could be an increase over the next year.

Natural mortality rates are of concern as well, with rates near the higher range of the past decade. However, fishing mortality remains low for fish aged five and older.

DFO contends that seals do not significantly influence the stock trajectory, but notes that studies are ongoing.