| dc.description.abstract | Integrated coastal and ocean management (ICOM) is an approach used by marine managers and practitioners to balance ecosystem health and preservation with the sustainable development of multiple ocean activities. In Canada, ICOM plans are developed and implemented by the Government of Canada, through the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO). The experiences and expertise of DFO program staff can lend itself to the development of future ICOM plans and tools. Program staff from the Aquatic Ecosystems Sector at the DFO Maritimes Region frequently engage in decision-making processes as part of their regulatory responsibilities in addition to providing advice internally at DFO and to external partners. The purpose of the research project is to identify the factors influencing the advisory and decision-making processes of three key programs in the Aquatic Ecosystems Sector: Marine Planning and Conservation, Aquaculture Management, and the Fish and Fish Habitat Protection Program. Structured interviews (n=9) were conducted with program staff from the Bedford Institute of Oceanography, and content analysis was conducted to identify influences on advice and decision-making. Four key themes emerged: Types and formats of information, policies and regulations, program organization, and program capacity and expertise. Based on research results, this paper offers program specific recommendations as well as recommendations for advancing ICOM in the Maritimes Region.
Keywords: Integrated coastal and ocean management, advice, decision-making, Department of Fisheries and Oceans, Maritimes Region, Canada | en_US |
