REMINDER: ENVS THESIS DEFENSE: Tues May 24 1:00 PM WSQ 111: Nicole Catalano, M.S. Candidate: An Analysis of the Marine Life Protection Act (MLPA) Collaborative Planning Process on the South Coast of California
Emily Moffitt
PLEASE FORWARD, ANNOUNCE, AND POST:
The Department of Environmental Studies at San José State University is pleased to present a public research presentation
TUESDAY, MAY 24, 2016 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM WASHINGTON SQUARE HALL 111 |
Nicole Catalano M.S. Candidate
Environmental Studies Department San Jose State University
An Analysis of the Marine Life Protection Act (MLPA) Collaborative Planning Process on the South Coast of California |
Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) have emerged over the last few decades as a popular tool for marine biodiversity conservation. Research has shown that the success of an MPA depends on the ongoing support and buy-in of stakeholders, including that of fishermen and other members of the local community. This case study focuses on the MPA planning process that was used to implement the Marine Life Protection Act (MLPA) in the southern region of California. The South Coast regional collaborative planning process occurred between 2008-2009 and was both science-based and stakeholder-driven. The planning process involved soliciting input from a broad stakeholder group representing the interests of educational institutions, commercial fishing, recreational fishing, environmental NGOs, tribal interests, local municipalities as well as state and federal government agencies. Using a case study approach, this research draws upon the fields of public participation and environmental decision-making to examine the efficacy of the South Coast MLPA collaborative planning process. This study reveals significant differences in perceptions among stakeholder groups (i.e., fishing, environmental NGO, and government). The fishing stakeholder group felt alienated and powerless during the process and expressed dissatisfaction and disappointment with the final MPA designations. As a result, the MPA planning process failed to gain the support of the local fishing community. The environmental NGO and government stakeholder groups expressed a higher level of satisfaction with the planning process, but were disappointed with the compromises that were made on the scientific criteria used for MPA design. This research highlights both the challenges and successes associated with MPA network planning in California, which can help inform future planning processes.
LIGHT REFRESHMENTS PROVIDED. ALL ARE WELCOME. |