COMMUNICATION FROM THE COMMISSION TO THE COUNCIL AND THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT

Development of a Community Action Plan for the management of European Eel

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Introduction 3

2. Biological background 3

3. Fisheries for eels 4

4. Evaluation of stock status and the Need for Action 5

5. Legal background for management 6

5.1. Community framework for action 6

5.2. Eels and international law 6

5.3. Eel management in the perspective of the Water Framework Directive 7

6. Management Measures 7

6.1. A rebuilding plan for Eel 7

6.2. Establishment of local targets for conservation and management 8

6.2.1. Settlement Targets 8

6.2.2. Stocking Targets 9

6.2.3. Escapement Targets 9

6.3. Data Collection 10

6.4. Support for Local Management in Community Legislation 10

6.5. Technical and Scientific Support for Local Management 10

6.6. International Dimension 11

7. Emergency Actions 11

8. Conclusions 12