A diversity of spatial management instruments can support integration of fisheries management and marine spatial planning

Abstract

In an increasingly crowded ocean facing global drivers for economic expansion, many fisheries could benefit from spatial management that enhances traditional fisheries management strategies. In order to reduce risks to ocean health and promote social-ecological resilience, a diversity of spatial management instruments is needed to provide rapid responses and longer-term interventions that promote sustainability and security. To support marine spatial planning (MSP) in South Africa, existing legal instruments were investigated by: (i) describing the prevailing legal framework for spatial fisheries management; (ii) identifying existing legal instruments that are or could be implemented to support spatial fisheries management; (iii) assessing the way in which these instruments could be implemented; and (iv) providing research recommendations to enhance integration of fisheries management measures into MSP. Seven Acts were examined. Within these, nine instruments support fisheries management. Six instruments that could directly contribute to spatial fisheries management were analysed for diversity by comparing them against seven criteria that reflect the complexity and time for implementation, longevity in terms of security and permanence and, transgression consequences. Results show that there is a diversity of instruments available that, if used together in an integrated MSP framework, can provide rapid responses as well as address longer-term goals. Although South Africa does have diversity in the instruments available, two of them, namely fisheries management areas (FMAs) and priority fishing areas (PFAs), have never been implemented, representing missed opportunities. As South Africa begins to implement its new MSP process, we recommend integration of FMAs and PFAs in this process.