Research Document - 2011/055

Musquash Estuary: A Proposed Monitoring Framework for the Marine Protected Area (MPA) and Intertidal Area Administered (AIA) by Fisheries and Oceans Canada

By J.A. Cooper, K. Curran, R. Singh, B. Chang, and F.H. Page

Abstract

This document proposes a framework for monitoring the ecosystem of the Musquash Estuary Marine Protected Area (MPA) and Administered Intertidal Area (AIA) that would pertain to managed activities and perceived threats to overall conservation objectives. The framework includes overviews of the Musquash Estuary ecosystem, previous overviews of monitoring in the estuary, and Fisheries and Oceans Canada’s approach to ecosystem-based management and monitoring. The focus of this framework is to identify the state of baseline knowledge of the estuary, as well as to propose monitoring indicators, strategies, and protocols that may be used to inform management towards acheiving the conservation objectives. A governance structure and scientific approach that would facilitate next steps for a monitoring program are also proposed. Incorporation of managed activities and perceived threats is considered an essential aspect of the framework, as this provides justification for the monitoring strategies and linkages for performance assessment. The evaluation of existing and new monitoring activities is considered an interative process. A workplan to guide this process over the next 5 years is provided. The monitoring framework outlined in this document is to be considered a proposed approach for monitoring the estuary, with focus on the protected area. It is not to be considered a final monitoring plan or commitment of resources or time by any party or participant, as described within. The science advice associated with this document is outlined in a DFO Canadian Science Advisory Secretariat (CSAS) Science Advisory Report .

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