Reconciling Ecosystem-Based Management and Focal Resource Conservation in the Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument

This paper presents a proposed methodology for the integration of ecosystem-based management and conservation of focal resources in protected areas via a prioritization process for resource conservation. The proposed methodology relies upon a prioritization of resources, determination of resource vulnerability, and integration into a spatial conservation planning tool. First, the origins and scientific basis for ecosystem-based marine management are reviewed. Next, the concept of ecosystem vulnerability as a method for integrating ecosystem and focal resource protections is proposed. A comprehensive planning process and three-step method are then described for quantifying vulnerability for use in marine spatial planning (MSP) tools. Finally, specific applications to management of protected areas are articulated.

Author: U. S. Department of Commerce

Publisher: Createspace Independent Publishing Platform

Publication Date: Dec 31, 2009

Number of Pages: 38 pages

Binding: Paperback or Softback

ISBN-10: 1496025695

ISBN-13: 9781496025692