Activity application for the Gully Marine Protected Area (MPA)
2. The Application Process
Who should apply for an activity approval?
Answer:
Anyone wishing to conduct an activity that is not listed as an exception to the general prohibitions in the Regulations is required to submit an activity plan that addresses the information required by the Regulations (reproduced in the checklist). It is advisable to consult the Regulations to learn what activities are allowed in the MPA before starting the application process.
How do I apply?
Answer:
Those proposing to conduct an activity in the Gully MPA should contact the MPA Management Team to obtain the current Activity Plan Submission Form. The Regulations and the checklist should be reviewed by applicants prior to submission to ensure that all required information has been included.
When should I apply?
Answer:
The Regulations specify that applications must be submitted no less than 60 days before the day on which the activity is proposed to begin. It is recommended that you discuss the activity with the Management Team well in advance of the application period. The Management Team can offer guidance regarding completion of the application and raise any concerns that should be addressed prior to the official submission of the application.
How does the application process work?
Answer:
Fully completed applications must be submitted to the Gully MPA Management Team in order to be processed. The application will be reviewed by the Management Team and other subject-matter experts (as required). The MPA Regulations, the Gully Management Plan, and other documents provide criteria against which the application is evaluated; applicants will be contacted if clarification is needed on any aspects of the application or proposed activities.
What is required for an activity to be approved?
Answer:
Activities within this MPA are limited to scientific research or monitoring, educational, or commercial marine tourism activities. The basic requirements for activity approval are described in section 5 of the Regulations. Proposed activities must not contravene the conservation objectives identified for the MPA. Applicants should explain how the proposed activities contribute to those priorities and should demonstrate that the proposed activities will not contribute to cumulative environmental effects in the MPA. The MPA Management Team can assist in ensuring that your proposed goals meet the objectives of the MPA.
Use the checklist to ensure that all required information is included. Other information may be requested by the MPA Management Team to ensure appropriate management of the Area. While your application will be evaluated only on the basis of the required elements, the speed and ease with which the application is reviewed can be advanced when more information is provided.
How long does it take to receive a decision?
Answer:
The Minister must make a decision on the activity plan within 30 days after the day on which the plan is received.
Is a follow-up report required?
Answer:
There is no regulatory requirement for a post-activity report. However, MPA managers may request that those permitted to conduct activities in the Gully MPA communicate the outcomes of their activities to assist in the ongoing management of the Area. Information provided in the report should include whether or not proposed activities were carried out successfully, the identification of sampling locations, and a description of data and/or samples collected. A standardized reporting template is available by contacting the MPA Management Team.
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