Science and Communities - Lines of action - Costa Rica
- Details
- Published on Friday, 16 December 2011 14:53
- Written by Super User
In the Science and Communities Program for Costa Rica, work is done on compiling, synthesizing and mapping information for the purpose of promoting marine spatial planning in the Multiple Use Marine Areas (MUMA) of the Gulf of Nicoya and the Southern Pacific region, and Cocos Island.
We now have very useful maps with information on ecosystems (e.g. corals, mangroves, turtle nesting beaches) and human uses of the sea (diving, cetacean watching, fishing, boating, and others). The function of these maps is to analyze the interaction of uses and the environment in order to propose management strategies suited to existing and future conditions of these areas.
As a way to facilitate the exchange of information, relations have been created and improved with key partners such as government entities, independent researchers, other non-governmental organizations and multiple users of the sea. The participation of all stakeholders in the marine spatial planning process is extremely important for achieving consensual agreements.
The Science and Communities Program represents MarViva on two important commissions for the fishery resources of Costa Rica. The first is the Commission for the National Action Plan for Conservation and Management of Sharks in Costa Rica which, along with other relevant actors, plans the sustainable management of shark fishing. It also participates on an inter-institutional commission that pursues the certification of the national fishery product in order to promote sustainable seafood choices.
In Costa Rica MarViva is implementing an Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) project for the conservation and sustainable use of marine resources in the two MUMA mentioned. The Science Program provides constant and effective support to this project, ensuring high standards in the scientific and technical work required for the planning and management of these areas.
Work is also planned for fishery monitoring projects focused on artisanal fishing and tourism-sport fishing for the country. Monitoring plays a key role since it helps to evaluate the status of a system and allows estimating the effectiveness of the management measures implemented. Knowing the status of the system helps with evaluating the effect of the management measures that are being implemented to define their effectiveness and the possible need for modifications. This is an adaptive management process.
