A study discovered that out of 288 species evaluated as at risk in Canada since 2017, only 17 made it to the Governor in Council within the suggested timeframe. Over half, 153 species, were overdue and awaiting listing decisions as of January 25, 2025. This delay affects species like caribou, beluga whales, and lake sturgeon, which have been identified as endangered or threatened while awaiting protection decisions.

The research indicates a bottleneck in the Species at Risk Act (SARA), where there is no statutory deadline for a crucial stage in the process despite recommended timelines for assessments. This gap has led to delays in decision-making, with the government frequently missing its self-imposed timeframes.

For instance, the Saskatchewan-Nelson River population of lake sturgeon, designated as endangered in 2017, missed a federal deadline in 2020 and is still awaiting progress in 2025. Dams and hydro projects have hindered the fish’s movement, emphasizing the urgency of habitat protection measures.

Listing a species under SARA can trigger protections such as prohibitions against harming or capturing the species and the requirement for a recovery strategy identifying critical habitat. However, the lack of explicit timelines in the process has resulted in delays, especially for aquatic species, with marine mammals and fish particularly affected.

Indigenous consultation has also been a factor in some delays, but experts stress the importance of integrating this process smoothly to protect both species and cultural connections. The government has acknowledged the issue and highlighted the complexities of aquatic species listings, committing to expedite decisions for these species.

Overall, the study underscores the need for a more efficient process to provide timely protection measures for endangered species and address the challenges posed by the current regulatory framework.