Human Uses of California Marine Protected Areas (MPA)

Interface of Humans and Protected Marine Areas
two young children playing on the beach, running towards the surf, sunny day

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Have a Look at

Spatial DATA Explorer

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Fisheries Data Explorer

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Commercial Port Focus Group Perspectives

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Key Findings

Commercial fishing perspectives on MPA outcomes

Measuring and collecting attitudes and perceptions are a key component in determining the success and performance of the Marine Protected Area (MPA) network. With the assistance of mediated focus groups, we conducted a study and worked with the fishermen to open up and share their thoughts about how MPAs have affected the health and availability of marine resources, the fishermen’s livelihoods and the overall satisfaction of MPA management, monitoring and enforcement. 

Commercial Fisheries Spatial Analysis

MPA effects table

Perceptions of commercial fishing community well-being

Measuring and collecting attitudes and perceptions are a key component in determining the success and performance of the Marine Protected Area (MPA) network. Read to understand the social, economic and environmental perceptions by commercial fishermen across California.

Impacts and adaptations - Commercial fishing perceptions of COVID-19 effects

The COVID-19 pandemic emerged as our study was being conducted, creating an undeniable condition that we felt important to address. Here, we present folks’ perspectives related to COVID-19 effects on commercial fishing communities.

Commercial fishing views on engagement and participation in fishery management

Community fishing participants discussed their countless experiences attending community meetings and town halls, acting as advisors to address specific fisheries issues, and having direct conversations with California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) managers. Read this key finding below to understand the local commercial fishing community’s views on engagement and participation in fishery management.

Commercial Passenger Fishing Vessel (charter boat) perspectives on MPAs, well-being, engagement, and impacts from COVID-19

We asked community members from California’s Commercial Passenger Fishing Vessel (charter boat) community to share their perceptions of their communities’ well-being, in relation to California’s MPA network.