Research Document 2020/050
Approaches for Assessing and Monitoring Representation, Replication, and Connectivity in Marine Conservation Networks
By Balbar, A.C, Daigle, R.M., Heaslip, S.G., Jeffery, N.W., Proudfoot, B., Robb, C.K., Rubidge, E. and Stanley R.
Abstract
Canada has committed to developing effective and representative marine conservation networks. Guidance for the development of these networks focuses on core design features, including the incorporation of ecologically and biologically significant areas, ecological representation, replication, connectivity, and adequacy/viability. Network planning using these design features is currently underway in five priority bioregions: the Gulf of St. Lawrence, the Scotian Shelf, the Newfoundland-Labrador Shelves, the Western Arctic, and the Pacific Northern Shelf. To ensure these networks achieve their biodiversity protection goals and objectives, the extent to which the design features are being achieved must be evaluated and monitored over time. Practical advice on how to monitor and evaluate Marine Protected Area (MPA) networks is critical for identifying the key elements of (future) successful management plans. This paper focuses on approaches for evaluating and monitoring the core design features of the Canadian MPA Network. We describe the importance of these design features and detail tools and approaches relevant for evaluation and monitoring at the network level. We then present a detailed case study to show how marine conservation network planning in the Northern Shelf Bioregion (NSB) has incorporated the design features in evaluations of draft network designs and how those methods can direct future monitoring within the NSB and more broadly in the Canadian MPA Network.
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