California’s lessons learned and recommendations for effective marine protected area network management

Abstract

Establishment of marine protected areas (MPAs) and MPA networks has increased globally following the passage of the Convention on Biological Diversity’s Strategic Plan for Biodiversity in 2010. Known as the Aichi Target 11, this plan calls for the protection of 10% of coastal and marine environments by 2020. Despite an increase of global efforts to implement MPAs, and more recently MPA networks, to achieve the Aichi Target 11, there is limited peer-reviewed literature about lessons learned and insights for effective implementation and management. With California home to one of the largest, scientifically guided, stakeholder-driven, ecologically connected networks of MPAs in the world, this paper offers guidance to MPA managers and policy makers on points of consideration prior to, during, and following, MPA implementation. Topics and recommendations are based on lessons learned from the design and implementation of California’s MPA Management Program. Recommendations range from the importance of using relevant designations during MPA planning and implementation, flexibility in enforcement measures and scientific monitoring, as well as addressing overlapping governance and authorities, and early and continued public outreach and engagement. Broadly, establishing an adaptive management process to provide a responsive framework for potential management changes including a mechanism for evaluating the efficacy of a network of MPAs following establishment is critical. While management of California’s MPA Network continues to evolve, these insights can inform other MPA network planning and management efforts.