About the JTWG

The Joint Technical Working Group (JTWG) is a Tier 2 technical group that reviews and discusses/debates technical information and data related to Fraser River salmon management on its own merits.

The JTWG was formed to review the species and/or stock specific basis data, assumptions, and theories that were used or will be used to assess existing or proposed fishery plans and management decisions; and provide an assessment of the plans and management actions as they relate to DFO and First Nations objectives.

The JTWG is not a consultation body. Conclusions arrived at from those discussions may then be provided to First Nations and DFO who may in turn use the information when discussing fishery management issues on a bi-lateral basis.

The JTWG Meets throughout the Year, generally in coordination with FSMC HOSTED ANNUAL FORUMS.

Purpose, Direction & Structure

Purpose: To foster greater transparency and understanding between First Nations and DFO with respect to technical issues associated with Fraser River salmon management.

Direction: The JTWG receives guidance from the Forum Planning Committee of the FSMB and the Forum Agenda development is done by consensus/agreement of JTWG participants. The JTWG reports to the Forum on Conservation and Harvest Planning, and sub-watershed First Nations fisheries processes, as appropriate. Individual participants of the JTWG also report back to their respective organizations.

Structure: There are no designated/appointed representatives. Instead, individual participants receive direction from their respective organizations to participate. There is no designated funding for technical participants to engage in these meetings, aside from regular operational budgets from their respective organization.

2025 TERMS OF REFERENCE FOR THE JTWG