How is your MPA doing? : a guidebook of natural and social indicators for evaluating Marine Protected Area Management effectiveness

Abstract

This guidebook offers managers and other conservation practitioners1 a process and methods to evaluate the effectiveness of marine protected areas (MPAs) for the purposes of adaptive management. The evaluation is based on indicators that measure the effectiveness of management actions in attaining goals and objectives that are specific to MPAs, the marine environment and coastal communities. It presents a flexible approach that can be used in many types of MPAs, such as multiple-use areas or no-take zones, where each may have different goals and objectives. It offers a variety of indicators that reflect a diversity of MPA goals and objectives. These can be selected to best match your MPA based on the needs and resources of your site.