Managed Seas

We developed and trialled tools that support EBM by helping decision-makers and interested groups understand how management decisions will affect marine environments. These tools also help us understand the impacts of changing environmental conditions associated with marine activities and climate change.

Our research included developing ecosystem models to enable decision-makers to weigh up ‘what if’ scenarios; spatial models to explore trade-offs between different resource uses; novel risk assessment tools and frameworks that incorporate mātauranga Māori; and software applications for encouraging participation. All of these tools were designed to support decision-making in the marine environment. 

We worked across the Challenge programmes to develop these tools, and liaised with government agencies, Māori, community and stakeholder organisations, institutions, and industry representatives in Tasman and Golden Bays to ensure these tools are fit for purpose. They have provided insights and guidance that are helping us refine the tools and build future scenarios.

Led by Chris Cornelisen (Cawthron Institute), this programme: 

• Developed models for improving management of marine resources in Tasman and Golden Bays
• Developed spatial models for managing disturbance and recovery of seafloor communities
• Identified novel risk assessment tools and frameworks that incorporate mātauranga Māori and support EBM
• Provided software applications for engaging the public with knowledge that the Challenge is generating.