New paper “in press” with Marine Policy, available online:

Factors to consider in evaluating the management and conservation effectiveness of a whale sanctuary to protect and conserve the North Atlantic right whale (Eubalaena glacialis).

Patricia R. Hinch and Elizabeth M. De Santo*
Dalhousie University Marine Affairs Program

(*corresponding author: Elizabeth.De.Santo@dal.ca)

Abstract

This paper examines key factors used in protecting the migratory North Atlantic right whale within the context of a MPA system, using the Grand Manan Whale Conservation Area, in New Brunswick Canada, as a case study example. Designated as a conservation area in 1993, before the Oceans Act came into effect, the Grand Manan conservation area currently does not form part of the Canadian network of MPAs. Given the possibility that MPA designation may occur, the paper examines factors that should be considered in meeting IUCN MPA design criteria and IUCN evaluation model requirements. A MPA evaluation framework based on an IUCN evaluation model [1] is designed to assess the effectiveness of a MPA in protecting a migratory right whale. Case study results indicate that current management and research activities for the Grand Manan conservation area address most governance, biophysical and socio-economic issues under an IUCN evaluation framework. On a site basis, it is recommended that the Grand Manan conservation area be designated as a component of the Canadian network of MPAs and that regulations be developed and implemented under the Species at Risk Act to clearly define activities considered damaging or destructive to right whale critical habitat. Recommendations also suggest the preparation of a combined site management-action plan for the Grand Manan conservation area indicating how activities specified in North Atlantic Right Whale Recovery Strategy will be implemented locally. On a regional and international basis, recommendations call for an internationally coordinated and integrated approach to right whale protection within the context of a network of designated critical habitat areas. Recommended activities include: continued Canadian participation in cross-border research and actions to mitigate threats to the right whales over their migratory range; development of a regional right whale management and monitoring strategy; and designation of additional critical habitats in national/international waters. It is further recommended that the evaluation framework developed by this paper be used as a model in assessing the conservation and management effectiveness of MPAs protecting other migratory marine species.

Keywords

North Atlantic Right Whale, Eubalaena glacialis, Marine Protected Area, Grand Manan Basin whale sanctuary

Dr. Elizabeth M. De Santo

Assistant Professor of Marine Affairs

Dalhousie University

6100 University Avenue

Suite 2127

Halifax, NS B3H 3J5

Canada

Tel: +1 902 494 7132

Fax: +1 902 494 1001

Email: Elizabeth.De.Santo@dal.ca