Paths of Influence: The Direct and Indirect Determinants of Marine Managed Area Success

Abstract

An analysis of the factors associated with the outcomes of marine managed areas (MMAs) located near two distinct types of communities—those whose economies are highly dependent on fishing, and those whose economies are more diverse—is presented. A path analytic approach is used to investigate both direct and indirect effects of selected independent variables on MMA project outcomes. Results indicate that enforcement should not be excessively noticeable or heavy handed, particularly in communities that rely on fishing for their livelihoods; engaging in capacity-building activities in communities where they are not needed not only wastes management resources but may in fact have a negative effect on project outcomes; and improved accountability in the management of the MMA is probably more important than other more costly activities.

Keywords:

• institutional analysis
• marine managed areas
• path analysis

Notes

1. The term marine managed area (MMA) has emerged over the last decade with the intention of reducing the implication of complete protection or ban on all extractive activities inherent in the term marine protected area (MPA).

2. Defined, for the purpose of this study, as the time at which the survey was undertaken.

3. For example, data on biomass density inside versus outside the MMA, or on changes in income for fishers before versus after the MMA was in place.