Framework for the National System of MPAs

cover of the Framework for the National System of Marine Protected Areas of the United States of America document

The updated Framework for the National System of Marine Protected Areas of the United States of America (March 2015) is available here. Originally published in 2008, the Framework outlines the goals and objectives of the National System of MPAs and describes how it is being implemented, as called for by Executive Order 13158. The updated Framework incorporates experience gained implementing the National System and advice from the Marine Protected Areas Federal Advisory Committee and MPA programs. The Framework was available for public comment from October 27 through December 26, 2014. The response to comments can be found here.

The purpose of the National System is to build management capacity among MPA programs, coordinate collaborative efforts to address common management issues and identify ecosystem-based gaps in the protection of significant natural and cultural resources for possible future action by the nation's MPA authorities.

For More Information
Write to mpainfo@noaa.gov.