Activity application for St. Anns Bank MPA
2. Application process
Who should apply for an activity approval?
Answer:
Anyone wishing to conduct scientific monitoring, educational, or commercial marine tourism activities in the area is required to submit an activity plan that addresses the information required by the Regulations governing the MPA. 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 St. Anns Bank 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 do not specify how far in advance of the proposed activity the application must be received. It is recommended that you discuss the activity with the Management Team well in advance of the proposed starting date. To obtain the activity report template or to submit a report, contact the MPA Management Team.
How does the application process work?
Answer:
Fully completed applications must be submitted to the St. Anns Bank MPA Management Team in order to be processed. The application will be reviewed by the Management Team, Advisory Committee, and other subject-matter experts (as required). The MPA Regulations, the St. Anns Bank 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. The basic requirements for activity approval are described in section 9 of the Regulations. Proposed research 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 60 days after the day on which the plan is received.
Is a follow-up report required?
Answer:
There is a regulatory requirement for a post-activity report to be submitted within 90 days after the last day of the activity. Information requested includes descriptions of the types of samples and/or data collected; an assessment of the effectiveness of mitigation measures used to minimize environmental impacts; and a description of any unexpected incidents/impacts. Researchers are also encouraged to share their results with the Canadian public, international communities, and interested parties.
To obtain the activity report template or to submit a report, contact the MPA Management Team.
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