Decision Guide: Selecting Decision Support Tools for Marine Spatial Planning.

Abstract

In this Decision Guide, the term marine spatial planning is used, but emphasis is placed on the systematic and spatial nature of these approaches rather than the name itself. The systematic component provides a framework for more comprehensive, flexible, well-governed, and science-based planning processes, while the spatial component adds a place-based focus to planning processes. The goals of these approaches are to promote efficient use of marine space and resources, while reducing use-use and use-ecosystem conflicts. To achieve these goals, resource planners and managers (hereafter referred to as practitioners) need spatially-explicit tools that can help (1) incorporate data from ecological, economic, and social systems; (2) trans- parently assess management alternatives and trade-offs; (3) involve stakeholders; and (4) evaluate progress towards management objectives. This Decision Guide, produced by the Center for Ocean Solutions (COS), is intended to assist practitioners in selecting appropriate decision support tools (DSTs) that can help them conduct marine spatial planning in their own jurisdictions.