A Model for Stakeholder Engagement in a National System of MPAs

Community-based national marine sanctuary advisory councils advise and make recommendations to US sanctuary (MPA) managers across a system of 14 national marine sanctuaries on management, science, service and stewardship. They serve as liaisons between their community constituents and sanctuaries to increase involvement and reduce conflict. Advisory councils offer collective recommendations to their respective sanctuaries, and on system-wide initiatives.