Research Document - 1999/210

An evaluation on criteria for creating MPAs in the Pacific Region: A proposed semi-quantitative scheme.

By C. Levings and G. Jamieson

Abstract

In this paper we review some of the semi-quantitative methods for choosing locations for MPA's and discuss their potential use for MPA site selection in Pacific region. A number of authorities involved in marine conservation have proposed specific criteria or design principles for MPA selection, often following those set out by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature a number of years ago. Most of the criteria schemes are qualitative, which can make the selection procedure subjective and difficult to track in an open and defensible manner. Because of the complexity of marine ecosystems and the lack of site specific data, development of a quantitative scheme is not possible at this time. A semi-quantitative scoring system (eg high, medium, low) for siting criteria may be possible even when data are incomplete. As a template for discussion, we used a slightly modified version of the three natural science objectives (biodiversity, sustainability, and increased opportunities for scientific research) and criteria given in the 1998 Canada/BC MPA discussion paper, with full realization that socio-economic and other factors important to DFO partners must be considered in final MPA selection process. Factors to consider when scoring criteria are discussed for the following: biodiversity (eight factors): representativeness, degree of naturalness, areas of high biodiversity and/or biological productivity, rare and endangered species, unique natural areas, ecological viability, vulnerability, and unique habitats; Sustainability (three factors): areas supporting significant spawning concentrations or densities, areas important for the viability of populations and genetic stocks, areas supporting critical species, life stages, and environmental support systems; Increased opportunities for scientific research (three factors): value as a natural benchmark, value for developing a better understanding of the function and interaction of species, communities and ecosystems, and value of determining the impact and results of marine management activities. We recommend that a working group be established to develop a system for scoring and weighting criteria, with wide representation from the science and layperson communities. To the extent possible, decisions for individual MPA's must be considered in the context of a MPA network, with the realization that developing the scientific basis for the configuration of the network is a necessary next step.

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