Research Project Summaries 2002-2009 - Marine Parks Authority ...

1. IntroductionA network of marine protected areas to comprehensively represent marine biodiversityis a priority of the NSW Government. Evaluating the effectiveness of NSW’s system ofmarine parks through quality science is a high priority (NSW MPA 2004). Effectiveconservation planning relies on accurate knowledge of the spatial distributions ofspecies and changes in species, habitats, and ecosystem processes. Information onsocial, economic and cultural values helps understand and manage conflict, improvesconsultation, education and compliance; and benefits the community.The MPA’s research and monitoring programs are guided by a strategic researchframework and a strategic research plan (see www.mpa.nsw.gov.au). The StrategicFramework for Evaluation and Monitoring of NSW Marine Parks (NSW MPA 2004)provides a vision and structure for research and monitoring programs that contribute toa whole-of-government approach to sustainable management of marine resources inNSW.The strategic framework includes two overarching priorities for research andmonitoring. These are the need to:identify and select the location and nature of marine parks and their zones monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of marine park zoning and relatedmanagement arrangements.Under this current framework research and monitoring is categorised under five areas:1. biodiversity and ecological processes2. indigenous and non-Indigenous culture and heritage3. ecologically sustainable use4. specific impacts5. socio-economic influences.The NSW Marine Parks Strategic Research Plan 2005–2010 prioritises research withinthe individual marine parks. Research is also identified within annual park-based plans(see www.mpa.nsw.gov.au). A range of specific research projects has been conductedwithin each marine park, with either financial or in-kind support from the MPA,Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water NSW or Industry andInvestment NSW. In addition, independent research projects relevant to the planningand management of these marine parks have been conducted by researchorganisations, universities and individuals.In the Solitary Islands Marine Park, researchers from universities in NSW, Vic, Qld andoverseas have conducted projects on marine park planning and management. Inparticular, the National Marine Science Centre (NMSC) has contributed significantly tothe biological and ecological knowledge of this park, through specific research as wellas undergraduate and postgraduate projects.In Jervis Bay Marine Park, research and monitoring has been undertaken incollaboration with visiting scientists and university undergraduate and postgraduateresearch students from universities and research institutions including University ofNew South Wales, Tasmanian Aquaculture and Fisheries Institute, MacquarieUniversity, University of Western Sydney, University of Wollongong, AustralianMaritime College, Australian Catholic University, Southern Cross University,Solitary Island and Jervis Bay Marine Parks Research Projects Summaries 2002–2009 1