Lessons Learned

There is widespread interest in the topic of MPA process design, specifically, how processes can be structured to be both science-based and participatory. This interest was documented in the MPA needs assessment, since both marine resource managers and diverse stakeholder groups suggested that there are important lessons to be learned from past MPA processes.

Examining MPA Designation Processes: "Lessons Learned"
The National Marine Protected Areas Center initiated a project to evaluate five recent planning processes associated with the establishment of protected areas. The goal of this project is to identify "lessons learned" that can improve future and ongoing MPA planning processes. The first phase of this project was an objective documentation of five recent MPA establishment processes, with specific process-related elements outlined for each of the case studies. The MPA Process Review (PDF, requires a plug-in such as Adobe ® Reader ® to view) report is intended to provide a factual foundation about the timeline, structure, and major events associated with recent MPA processes. Many of the documented processes include a discussion of stakeholder input, in terms of how feedback was solicited and incorporated into the decision-making process. Often, this is not only a useful component of the process but also a legal requirement. In order to highlight the legislative mandates related to public participation, the MPA Center has also drafted a one-page reference guide, entitled "Involving the Public: Legal Requirements for Public Participation".

Report: Lessons Learned from Recent Marine Protected Area Designations in the United States
The final report, Lessons Learned from Recent Marine Protected Area Designations in the United States, summarizes strengths and weaknesses and provides recommendations for ongoing and future MPA planning efforts. For additional background information about the report, read About the Project.

Contacts
Dr. Charlie Wahle, (831) 242-2052

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