State of Management of South Africa’s ... - WWF South Africa

STATE OF MANAGEMENT OF SOUTH AFRICA’S MARINE PROTECTED AREASthen made to check the vessels once they returned to the slipways. A working relationshiphad been established with the Breede River Conservancy to assist with boat patrols andcompliance of boats launched at Infanta.MONITORING (37%)There was no comprehensive system for monitoring with results to be used in adaptivemanagement. Aerial counts of great white sharks and whales were conducted during theaerial patrols and there was monitoring of oystercatchers and penguins, however this waslimited due to the lack of staff experience. There was research occurring in the MPA but thiswas not driven by management and the results were not used in adaptive management.Research in the MPA included long-term monitoring of fish abundance and Southern Rightwhale movements. The management plan set out requirements for periodic review, but thesehad not been followed.PUBLIC EDUCATION AND AWARENESS (67%)There was a planned education programme that targeted school groups. The programmewas not specific to the MPA but did incorporate some aspects related to the MPA. There isan environmental education centre in the Potberg section of reserve as well asaccommodation facilities for school groups. There were no brochures specific to the MPA;however the DEA Marine Recreational Activity Information brochure was available. MPAsigns were required at nearby slipways and an additional sign should be incorporated in theinformation display at Koppie Alleen within the reserve.INTERACTION WITH STAKEHOLDERS AND COMMUNITIES (67%)It was reported that regular interactions occurred between CapeNature and local farmersadjacent the MPA. Some of the community at Arniston was opposed to the MPA and tookpart in or supported illegal activities in the MPA. Occasional efforts were made byCapeNature staff to engage with these communities meaningfully however none of this is fedback into the management of the MPA.A CapeNature Community Conservation Officer from De Hoop liaised with local fishingcommunities and local landowners (farmers and Overstrand Test Range) in monthlycommittee meetings. Communication lines and a means for information exchange had beenestablished, however not all role players have been included.ImprovementsA management plan has been prepared, although it is seen as too broad, but nonethe less a step in the right direction.A nature conservator and marine ranger have been employed specifically for theMPA.A budget has been allocated by MCM for the management of this MPA.A boat has been supplied to the MPA.Pg 83