How Can Public Participation
Be Used Effectively in the Planning and Management of MPAs?
Collaborative processes and public meetings can be used to incorporate
public participation into MPA planning and management decisions. Public
participation is effective when it is open, understandable, and consistently
followed. The public must understand what, if any, impact its comments
will have on decision making, and the process should be designed to
identify or address the issues and concerns of all stakeholder communities.
Designing an effective collaborative process will require significant
planning and time, but may build awareness, corroboration, and, consensus
on the best way to protect an area.
How Can Knowing This Help Me?
Knowing and understanding how public participation can be used in effective planning and management of MPAs may help
- Increase support and build relationships with stakeholders
- Empower the public in the decision-making process
- Incorporate public participation
- Inform the public in a timely manner
- Educate stakeholders on management issues
What Are Some Tools I Can Use?
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