Barriers to Implementing a Bottom-Up Management Approach to Coastal MPAs: a Canadian Case Study

Abstract

Marine protected areas (MPAs) are employed as a conservation strategy across the world, protecting species and habitats and helping to rebuild declining populations. However, proposals for coastal MPAs are often met with resistance from local communities, where reserves are perceived to lead to negative social, economic, cultural and political impacts. Shifting from the traditional top-down governance structure to a more community-based or “bottom-up” approach is increasingly advocated as a means to secure local support and enhance the effectiveness of marine conservation measures. This research sought to identify site-specific barriers that may limit the application of a bottom-up management approach for a potential MPA, the Eastern Shore Islands area of interest. A literature review was first conducted to examine four previous resource management initiatives on the Eastern Shore, which provided a contextual background and lessons learned for current implementation processes. Potential barriers to community-based co-management of an Eastern Shore Islands MPA were then analysed using a framework for co-management. Key barriers identified include a history of mistrust, contrasting visions for coastal management, and a lack of local leadership supporting the process. As the initiator of the MPA, the federal government should assume responsibility in addressing these barriers, including taking time to mend past relations and build trust, and communicating with communities more effectively.

Keywords: marine protected areas; Nova Scotia; community-based; co-management; collaborative planning