MEPA

Enhancing Marine Ecosystem Management In The Nelson’s Dockyard National Park

Project Lead

The National Parks Authority (NPA).

Project Description

The NPA is mandated by its legislation to preserve, protect, manage and develop the natural, ecological and physical resources and the historical architectural cultural heritage of the Nelson’s Dockyard National Park (NDNP). The marine areas, which cover 45% of the NDNP, and are home to a variety of marine ecosystems, inclusive of Mangrove Wetlands, Sandy flats, Seagrass beds and Coral Reefs. These ecosystems in turn provide a variety of services, including water filtration, habitat provision, coastal protection and biodiversity support, which are essential in the maintenance of the aesthetics and function of the NDNP.

Photo by Ruleo Camacho

The NPA is embarking on a project, funded by the Marine Ecosystem Protected Area (MEPA) Trust titled “Enhancing Marine Ecosystem Management in the Nelson’s Dockyard National Park” to improve the management of the marine ecosystem found within its boundaries. The project will aim primarily at:

• Enhancing the ability of the NPA to monitor the marine environment within the NDNP.
• Enhancing the ability of the NPA to manage its marine space within the NDNP.
• Improve the NPA’s understanding of the marine benthic and bathymetry information within the NDNP.
• Improve the spatial management of the marine space within the NDNP.
• Improve the stakeholder awareness and education of the marine ecological resources in the NDNP.

MEPA Objectives

This project meets the following objectives of MEPA:

• Goal 1 – Protect and Enhance Ecosystems.
• Goal 2 – Strengthen the governance and management effectiveness of Protected Areas.
• Goal 4 – Education and Awareness.
• Goal 5 – Support Sustainable Livelihoods.

Photos by Ruleo Camacho