Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) is the federal department responsible for safeguarding waters and managing fisheries resources. DFO oversees ocean and freshwater fisheries, marine safety and navigation, protection of fish habitat, marine protected areas, and scientific research on aquatic ecosystems. The Canadian Coast Guard operates as a special operating agency within DFO. For municipalities, DFO is relevant when development or infrastructure projects affect fish habitat—DFO reviews projects under the Fisheries Act and can require changes or mitigation measures. Coastal municipalities interact with DFO on harbour management, marine navigation, and ocean-related economic development. DFO also manages programs affecting Indigenous communities' fishing rights. The department's mandate balances economic benefits from fisheries with conservation and sustainability, addressing challenges like climate change impacts on fish populations and marine ecosystems.