The best future for harp seals in the north Atlantic involves humans using seal products in a sustainable manner over the long term. Twice this sustained and balanced use has been halted, and twice, the herd has grown so large that the animals have suffered, due to their own social and dietary stresses.

Sealers know their animals, and they want to be sure that the harvest is appropriate to the population dynamics churning the herd. The mixed history of seal use and neglect can now be taken into account as quotas are based on documented herd reaction to its own numbers.

The talk now is of better management through controlled and renewed use; of seal oil capsules and the promise of human health benefits, and the excitement of new garment and leather fashions. Canadians are to be congratulated on their new plans for "Sealing the Future" through renewed seal management.