A guide for planners and managers - IUCN

PART I
Site Planning and Management
In this technique, a typical base map is prepared at an appropriate scale and
transparent overlay maps are prepared for each of the environmental components
or attributes to be compared or analyzed (Classen, 1989). For example, transparent
maps of depth, habitats, bottom types, etc can be overlaid and placed on the base map
in order to identify areas where nature
FIGURE I-30.
protection coincides with heavy uses—
housing, mining, fishing, etc. Any other
mapable information could also be
overlain, such as, dive spots, beach
erosion susceptibility, or pollutant
discharge (Figure I-30).
One can add more environmental
components and/or development
constraints/attributes as required (e.g.,
critical habitat, endangered or rare plant
communities, historic buildings) until
satisfied that all essential aspects have
been covered and an optimum scheme
(or set of alternatives) has been identified
to reduce use conflicts (Classen, 1989).
The same approach could be used
to combine maps of shellfish beds,
wetlands, and endangered species
habitats into a single map of sensitive
biological resources (Sorenson and
McCreary, 1990). The resulting maps
give planners and managers tools to
guide the type and intensity of uses to
be permitted or denied.
2.13 Interpretation
Overlay mapping can be done with GIS technology or
manually, employing transparent sheets.
Source: Principles and Concepts of a Coastal
Management Methodology. University of Sao Paulo,
Brazil (1989).
MPA programmes address the need to manage human activities that degrade the
environment or deplete species stocks. Gaining the cooperation of people (local
residents, students, and visitors) through interpretation is an important management
tool in this endeavor (Table I-1; F,2,g). Interpretation—explanation of the MPAs
resources and functions and management issues and needs—enhances public
awareness, understanding, and appreciation of different marine resources and of the
need to conserve them. An effective interpretive plan often decreases the need for
policing the protected area and reduces the cost of management because when
people understand the reasons for management they more willingly comply with
regulations (Figure I-31).
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