Coastal Services Center

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How Might Resource Users, Groups, and Communities Choose to, or be Required to, Adapt or Change Their Use Patterns Once an MPA Has Been Designated?

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Designation of an MPA will undoubtedly affect how certain stakeholders or user groups use the resource. Changing how people use a resource can be controversial and may be met with resistance if some level of communication is not established throughout the process.

How Can Knowing This Help Me?

Understanding the impact of the MPA's designation on stakeholder behavior may help

• Determine which, if any, users, groups, or communities would need to change their use patterns
• Fink alternatives for those most affected prior to the MPA designation. Although it might appear that certain communities would have to give up behaviors, there could be acceptable alternatives, such as changing location or slightly altering a behavior
• Identify future sources of conflict. This knowledge can help mitigate these conflicts and find acceptable alternatives (conflict resolution)
• Identify areas to focus enforcement and compliance efforts
• Focus education and outreach initiatives

What Are Some Tools I Can Use?

• Cost-Benefit Analysis
• Case Study Research
• Social Impact Assessment
• Interviewing