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Selection of MPAs

The selection of Marine Protected Areas can be a difficult process. Many factors go into the selection of MPAs such as scientific data, economic values and social values such as the opinions of everyday citizens. The location of the majority of MPAs currently in existence was selected because the opportunity for the governing parties presented its-self, not because it was the optimum location based on scientific data. (1)

Economic values have a big say in the selection process of MPAs. Some criteria considered significant economically are, the number of fishermen using the area, the value of the area for tourism and the potential future contribution of the area to increased economical value. (3)

Social values can also have a significant effect in the selection process for MPAs. Criteria that can effect the selection of MPAs by way of social values are the heritage value, the recreational value, ease of access and any cultural significance of the area. (3)

Scientific motives can have an effect on the selection of MPAs. Scientific reasons for the selection of MPAs include the amount of work done on a particular area, the educational value of an area and the protection of biologically important species within the proposed area. (3)

References:

(1) Agardy, Tundi. (1997). Marine Protected Areas and Ocean Conservation. San Diego, Calif., U.S.A.: Academic.

(2) Edinger Lecture- Marine Protected Areas- BIOL/Geog 4650, Mar 7, 2013

(3) National Research Counsel. (2001). Marine Protected Areas: Tools for Sustaining Ocean Ecosystems. Washington, D.C.: National Academy.

(4) http://www.heritage.nf.ca/law/wells_gov_plantworkers.html

(5) http://www.gizmag.com/thermometer-equipped-cod-provide-valuable-data/17985/picture/130907/

Green circles illustrated on this map are the locations of Canada's 8 MPAs. Other symbols represent areas of interest for possible future MPAs. Retrieved from: Edinger lecture (2)

Local fish-plant workers. This picture illustrates the local social and economical connection to Newfoundland and Labrador's fisheries.  Retrieved from: http://www.heritage.nf.ca/law/wells_gov_plantworkers.html (4)

Scientific study on Atlantic Cod (Gadus morhua). Retrieved from: http://www.gizmag.com/thermometer-equipped-cod-provide

valuable-data/17985/picture/130907 (5) ​

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