Public Participation
Nomination Process
Public participation is key to the success of the national system of MPAs. The public was actively involved in the development of the Framework document, and has been involved in nominations of MPAs to the national system.
The general public is invited to provide public comment on all sites nominated for inclusion in the national system. All nominated sites are published in the Federal Register. The MPA Center forwards all public comment to the MPA managing entity, which reaffirms or withdraws the nomination based on all information available.
For more details on the nomination process, click here.
Public Participation in Developing the Framework
In developing the Framework for the National System of MPAs, the MPA Center engaged the nation in a multi-year dialogue to ensure that the national system represents the nation’s interests in the conservation and sustainable use of its natural and cultural marine resources. The MPA Center sought advice from federal, state, tribal, territorial, regional and local government agencies and diverse stakeholder groups.
Additionally, the MPA Center received formal recommendations from states and territories and the MPA Federal Advisory Committee and held multiple workshops and meetings around the country.
The MPA Center will continue to work with and solicit input from federal, state, tribal and local government partners, Fishery Management Councils, stakeholder groups, and the general public about their perspectives on the national system.
Links
Frequently Asked Questions about MPAs
Archive: Developing the National System of MPAs
For More Information
Write to mpainfo@noaa.gov.
