How To Manage A Park Program

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(1)Updated June 2013. Parks Victoria Marine Protected Areas Program Plan 2012 – 2014. Parks Victoria Marine Protected Areas Program Plan 2012 – 2014. 1.

(2) Authorised and published by Parks Victoria Level 10, 535 Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000 Copyright © Parks Victoria 2012 Updated version June 2013 Cover image: Mushroom Reef Marine Sanctuary. Inside cover image: Corner Inlet Marine National Park. Image acknowledgements: Mark Norman, Roger Fenwick, Julian Finn, Mary Malloy, William Boyle, Mark Rodrigue, Ste an Howe, Warrnambool Standard, Matt Hoskins and Natasha Johnson..

(3) Contents. Parks Victoria Marine Protected Areas Program Plan 2012 – 2014. Foreword. 5. 1. Introduction. 7. 1.1 Purpose. 8. 1.2 Scope and structure of the plan. 9. 1.3 Statutory basis for MPA management. 9. 1.4 Corporate context. 10. 2. Marine Protected Area Program. 11. 2.1 Updated approach. 12. 2.2 Principles for program delivery. 12. 2.3 Program governance. 13. 2.4 Program logic. 14. 3. Program delivery approach. 16. 3.1 Park adaptive management. 17. 3.2 Conservation outcomes. 18. 3.3 Risk management. 19. 3.4 State of the Parks reporting. 20. 4. Program areas. 21. Program Area 1: Park planning and strategy. 22. Program Area 2: Compliance. 25. Program Area 3: Community and visitor engagement. 28. Program Area 4: Culture and heritage. 31. Program Area 5: Emergency management. 35. Program Area 6: Catchment and water management. 38. Program Area 7: Invasive species management. 40. Program Area 8: Knowledge and management effectiveness. 43. Program Area 9: Asset management. 47. Program Area 10: Recreation and tourism. 49. Program Area 11: Partnerships – Agencies. 52. Program Area 12: Partnerships – Community. 55. 5. Performance assessment and reporting. 57. 5.1 Corporate and Business Plans. 58. 5.2 MPA performance assessment and reporting. 58. 5.3 Providing information to the community. 59. Appendix 1 – Statewide MPA system map. 60. Appendix 2 – Resources and references. 62. Appendix 3 – State of the Parks 2010 summary. 64.

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(5) Foreword The existing strategy Victoria’s System of Marine National Parks and Marine Sanctuaries Management Strategy 2003 – 2010 has guided the establishment and management of marine national parks and sanctuaries. It has served Parks Victoria well, with major program advances over the past decade.. Achievements include the preparation of management plans for all parks, mapping of marine habitats within parks, a robust research and monitoring program, and protection of the parks’ environmental and heritage values in partnership with other agencies and the community. Visitor use and enjoyment, including tourism opportunities, have been supported. The community have also participated in marine protected area management through establishment of marine friends groups complementing the extensive community involvement seen along the coast. A renewed direction for the marine

(6) Parks Victoria’s adaptive management framework, conservation outcomes, research directions and monitoring, evaluation and reporting is required. There is also a need to respond to the recommendations of the Victorian Auditor

(7) to this MPA Program Plan that Parks Victoria should: workforce to discharge its obligations to environmentally manage marine protected areas.. marine protected areas with supporting plans that specify actions, targets, performance indicators, accountabilities and time frames for delivery; enables the assessment of performance against park management plans; !

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(9) " assessments, including prioritisation, for marine protected areas; # collaboration with other agencies to better inform its planning; and !" Victoria’s System of Marine National Parks and Marine Sanctuaries: Management Strategy 2003–2010, to inform the development of a new strategy. This Marine Protected Areas Program Plan aims to renew and extend Parks Victoria’s effective management of Victoria’s marine protected areas for the years 2012 – 2014 pending development of a long term strategy once the current Marine Inquiry reports back through VEAC in 2014.. Bill Jackson Chief Executive. Parks Victoria Marine Protected Areas Program Plan 2012 – 2014. 5.

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(11) 1. Introduction Parks Victoria is the appointed manager of Victoria’s marine protected areas (MPAs) including the highly protected marine national parks and marine sanctuaries that were established under the National Parks (Marine National Parks and Marine Sanctuaries) Act 2002.. Establishment of the marine national in the world that a complete system of protected marine areas, representative of the diversity of marine habitats, had been implemented. The marine national parks and marine sanctuaries are highly protected (no take) and cover approximately 63,000 hectares or 5.3% of Victorian state marine waters. Other marine protected areas in Victoria are multiple use and allow for some forms parks, marine and coastal parks, and a marine reserve. Both groups of the marine protected areas (MPAs) are the focus for this Program Plan. Since their proclamation, Parks Victoria has successfully established and continues to manage marine national parks and marine sanctuaries as an important and protected area estate. Management has focussed on protecting natural and cultural values, engaging the community at all levels, environmental research and monitoring, tourism and visitor management.. Victoria’s System of Marine National Parks and Marine Sanctuaries Management Strategy 2003 – 2010 was prepared in collaboration with key stakeholders.. Parks Victoria Marine Protected Areas Program Plan 2012 – 2014. Management plans for all 24 marine national parks and marine sanctuaries were prepared between 2005 and 2008 to guide management. There are several key challenges in MPA management:. t Baseline knowledge of marine biodiversity values is not as well established as for terrestrial areas. t A need to focus management effort to eliminate or reduce threats and disturbances including poor water quality, illegal resource extraction, marine pests, and a lack of community stewardship and understanding of marine vales. t Use of science to assess effectiveness of management actions and inform adaptive management. t Collaboration between management agencies and sharing of data and other information. t Demonstrating improvement in condition while recognising that this will be incremental and require long term datasets to quantify change.. 7.

(12) 1.1 Purpose The purpose of the Marine Protected Area Program Plan (MPA Program Plan) is to provide guidance for MPA management activity within the broad strategic directions of the previous strategy for the period 2012 to 2014. The Victorian Environment Assessment Council (VEAC) is currently (July 2012) undertaking an investigation into the outcomes of the establishment of Victoria’s existing marine protected areas, Plan covers the period until that study is completed and operates within existing government policy and the broad strategic directions set by the 2003-2010 Strategy. A new marine strategy that takes into account this plan and the outcomes of the VEAC investigation will then be developed (Figure 1). This MPA Program Plan does not propose any new policy or strategic directions ahead of that study. The MPA Program Plan 2012-14 is required given the progressive improvement in adaptive management over the ten years. since the MPA system was established and the need for improved reporting and of MPA management. An interim plan is adaptive management approach and guide environmental, cultural, heritage and visitor assets and services programs. The plan will ensure continuity of program development from the previous marine management strategy and ensure MPA programs have clear logic, established accountabilities, and described performance measures. New management challenges have emerged in the past decade including demographic changes along the coast, a more variable and changing climate,. and the spread of marine invasive species. New opportunities have also emerged, such as marine habitat mapping, novel research approaches, and social media technologies, which lead to a greater understanding of the marine environment, and the improved capacity to communicate with the community about values, threats and management. Parks Victoria’s management of MPAs has been reviewed, both internally and by the. issues, including the need to demonstrate improved management and accountability. This MPA Program Plan responds to these audits.. Figure 1: Planning timeline. Parks Victoria Marine Protected Areas Program Plan (2012 – 2014). Victoria’s System of Marine National Parks and Marine Sanctuaries Management Strategy 2003 - 2010. 2003. Parks Victoria Marine Protected Areas Program Plan 2012 – 2014. Victorian Environment Assessment Council ‘Marine Investigation’ (2012 – 2014). 2012. 2014. Future Strategy for Marine Protected Areas (10+ years). 2020+. 8.

(13) 1.2 Scope and structure of the plan The Marine Protected Areas Program Plan covers all marine protected areas (MPAs) managed on behalf of the Victorian Government by Parks Victoria, being: t 13 highly protected (no take) marine national parks. t 11 smaller highly protected (no take) marine sanctuaries. t Multiple use MPAs including three marine and coastal parks, two marine parks, and a marine Reserve.. While the scope of the plan is MPA management, there are some actions that arrangements that are in place for areas outside of MPAs, also managed by Parks Victoria, such as local ports, waterways, and coastal parks. The MPA system is illustrated in Appendix 1 – State-wide MPA system map. The MPA Program Plan covers the following: t The statutory requirements for MPA management (section 1.3).. t The MPA program in context of Parks Victoria’s corporate business plan (section 1.4). t MPA program governance (section 2.3). t MPA program logic (section 2.4). t MPA program delivery approach (section 3). t The 12 MPA program areas and implementation actions (section 4). t Performance assessment and reporting (section 5).. 1.3 Statutory basis for MPA management Parks Victoria manages the marine protected area system as part of its responsibilities under the National Parks Act 1975 . The MPA Program is designed to meet the objectives of the National Parks Act 1975 for marine national parks (Schedule 7) and marine sanctuaries (Schedule 8), and marine and coastal parks, marine parks and marine reserves (Schedule 4). The Objects of the Act are to make provision, in respect of national parks, state parks, marine national parks and marine sanctuaries to: (i) preserve and protect the park in its natural condition for the use, enjoyment and education of the public. (ii). Further Objects for marine national parks and marine sanctuaries (Schedule 7 and 8) include: t Preserve and protect the natural fauna of the park and any features of the park which are of geological, geomorphological, ecological, scenic, archaeological, historic or other. t Promote the prevention of the into the park and provide for the eradication or control of exotic. and fauna in the park. (iii) exterminate or control exotic fauna in the park. (iv) in the park.. t Subject to the preservation and protection of park values provide for the use, enjoyment and understanding of marine national parks and marine sanctuaries by the public. Promote an understanding of the purpose. t To make provision, insofar as is appropriate to each such park, for the protection and preservation of features of scenic or archaeological, ecological, historic or other. t To make provision for the public to observe, experience or otherwise become acquainted in those parks with the countryside and rural skills activities and pursuits and for carrying on, in those parks and for those purposes, agricultural, horticultural, or other agrarian projects and botanical, biological, ecological, geological, studies or projects. t To make provision in accordance with the foregoing for the use of parks by the public for the purposes of enjoyment, recreation or education and for the encouragement and control of that use.. and marine sanctuaries and for marine and coastal parks, Marine Parks and Marine Reserves (Schedule 4):. Parks Victoria Marine Protected Areas Program Plan 2012 – 2014. 9.

(14) 1.4 Corporate context The Parks Victoria Corporate Plan provides highlevel directions for the organisation. Parks Victoria’s mission is: To protect and enhance Victoria’s parks and waterways for people forever.. Parks Victoria will work toward this mission with five key objectives:. t To conserve park and waterway ecosystems.. t Environment, land and water. t Culture and heritage. t Visitors and community. t Fire and emergency.. t To protect culture and heritage in parks.. t A sustainable organisation.. t To deliver opportunities for people to use their parks and waterways.. The MPA Program Plan will inform and integrate with Parks Victoria’s corporate and business planning.. t To prepare for, respond to and recover t To operate as a resilient, relevant and effective park management agency. To deliver against the three-year objectives, areas of work:. Parks Victoria Marine Protected Areas Program Plan 2012 – 2014. 10.

(15) 2. Marine Protected Areas Program The MPA program aims to deliver a range of activities as part of a comprehensive protected area program in order to meet the legislated objectives and community expectations. This MPA Program Plan has been MPA management experience. Following the establishment of the marine national parks and sanctuaries, risk assessments and individual park management plans were prepared to provide management directions. These plans focussed on the. Parks Victoria Marine Protected Areas Program Plan 2012 – 2014. many tasks required for park establishment and were strongly risk-management based. Building on this experience, Parks to an approach which includes clearer and more measureable statements of the desired condition of the natural assets the parks were established to conserve, and. the threats requiring management. This approach is consistent with Government directions and outcomes and addresses specific recommendations of the Victorian Auditor General’s report (VAGO 2011) on marine protected area management.. 11.

(16) 2.1 Updated approach durable guidance, there are some key of Parks Victoria’s management systems and the emergence of new issues. These include: t Adaptive management. The increased recognition in park and natural resource management of the need to deal with changing impacts and conditions and to learn through monitoring the effectiveness of actions taken.. t Learning generated through performance measurements linked to objectives and State of the Parks reporting.. t An expanded scope that includes all MPAs managed including Schedule 4 reserves such as marine and coastal parks.. t. t The impacts of a changing climate. conservation outcome statements that provide a link between objectives and the success of management actions.. t Recognition of the value of management planning for multiple parks in a geographic landscape.. t The continued impacts and risk of marine invasive species. t The increased population pressures on the coast including urbanisation and increasing recreational use and activities reliant on the natural environment.. 2.2 Principles for program delivery The following principles underpin delivery of the MPA Program: t Collaborative partnerships with key government agencies, industry and the community to protect environmental health.. t Using an adaptive management framework approach, utilising research, monitoring and performance assessment, as a way to assess management actions and adjust management as needed.. t Adoption of an integrated coastal zone management (ICZM) approach for managing the broader threats (e.g. water quality, marine pests, visitor impacts), especially at a catchment or regional scale.. Parks Victoria State-wide Marine Protected Area Program Plan 2012 – 2014. t Sustained engagement of research and educational institutions, industry stakeholders, and other interested parties including the community in research and monitoring.. t Provision of meaningful opportunities for Aboriginal peoples to be involved in the design and implementation of conservation measures for seascapes (land and water) with which they. t Engagement with the tourism industry. determined to jointly manage these areas.. community awareness, and opportunities t t Developing information, education and interpretation programs that recognise unique aspects of the different marine areas across the state, to create meaningful educational and visitor experiences, increase community awareness of marine and coastal biodiversity and maritime cultural resources and history.. best practices and standards for the management of MPAs, embracing innovation as a means of responding effectively to changing knowledge.. t Broad public participation and community involvement in MPA management.. 12.

(17) 2.3 Program governance Implementation and accountability for delivery of the MPA Program is within a structured program governance arrangement that facilitates senior management oversight of the program. This is supported through the Environment and Heritage Division and regional Marine Coordinators, with delivery through divisional and operational line management as shown in Figure 2 below. Accountabilities for individual program. Parks Victoria Board. GM Environment and Heritage Division t accountable for the marine program and chairs the marine protected areas steering group. Divisional and regional managers (coastal regions) t participate in the marine protected areas steering group. Environment and Heritage – Marine Program Coordinator area sections of the plan.. Environment and Heritage Division provides direction and coordinates programming with regional coordinators and other divisions and directorates. Regional management (RMT). Accountable directorate and divisional managers. Regional marine coordinators. Delivery Park Planning and Procedures Science and Management Effectiveness Programs Culture and Heritage Visitor and Asset Strategy and Planning Marketing and Education Tourism Compliance Fire Environment Land and Water Community Engagement. Figure 2: Program governance. Parks Victoria Marine Protected Areas Program Plan 2012 – 2014. t Eastern t Melbourne t Western Operational delivery Compliance – patrol Surveillance – monitoring Community science programs Information Interpretation & Education Invasive Species Management Regional Catchment Strategy actions Emergency response support. (as at June 2013). 13.

(18) Parks Victoria Marine Protected Areas Program Plan 2012 – 2014. 14. Program purpose. Core purpose of the area of work. MPA Program. ELW directions. Broader goals contributed to. Parks Victoria objectives To prepare for, respond to

(19) other emergencies. in the context of the high-level directions of the Environment, Land and Water area of work. The MPA Program logic is shown in Figure 3 right.. Systematic monitoring, research, and evaluation, is used to inform management decisions. Natural values management: To maintain marine ecological integrity in MPAs. Indigenous cultural values within MPAs protected. Cultural values management: To protect and interpret cultural heritage in MPAs. Effective communication builds community stewardship for MPAs. Visitor services: To support appropriate visitor experience and safety in MPAs. Emergency management preparedness facilitates support for MPA incidents. Emergency management: To respond to marine incidents and emergencies. A skilled and trained workforce is able to effectively manage MPAs. Sustainable organisation: To build the skills and capacity for MPA management. Marine protected areas values are managed through active intervention, community engagement, improved understanding, and compliance. To deliver better opportunities for people to use their parks and waterways. Figure 3: Program Logic Model for the MPA Program. To protect cultural heritage in parks. Key natural assets and ecological processes of Victoria’s parks network are maintained or restored for their long term viability. To conserve park and waterway ecosystems. The MPA Program can be illustrated in a program Logic Model that sets out the steps which occur in the MPA Program and relates how activities carried out contribute to the program purpose,. 2.4 Program logic.

(20) Parks Victoria Marine Protected Areas Program Plan 2012 – 2014. 15. Ongoing activities carried out directly through the area of work. What will be happening differently as a result of the area of work Post contact cultural values within MPAs are. Sustainable tourism and recreation uses within MPAs are supported. MPA assets help protect environmental values and improve visitor safety. Support community participation and involvement through both regional and corporate programs. Understand values, threats, and risks to MPAs P through targeted marine research and monitoring. Facilitate community participation in marine monitoring to assist detection of changes in parks. Communicate research and monitoring findings to staff, stakeholders, and community. Assist in responding to cetacean stranding, oil spills and other emergencies. Implement a planned compliance program with relevant partners including DPI Fisheries. Deliver effective MPA P messages through interpretation, education, media, and marketing. Evaluate and report on the effectiveness of MPA P management through State of the Parks. Deliver key marine communication initiatives with key partners including DSE and DPI. Develop, assess, and report on performance indicators for effective MPA P management. Develop conservation objectives, implementation plans for all MPAs P. Maintain built assets for MPA P boundary recognition access and visitor safety. Integrate MPAs P into Regional Catchment Strategies and water quality improvement plans. Identify and protect Indigenous and P European cultural values within MPAs. Prevent or limit the impact of P marine pest incursions on MPAs. Ensure good governance for MPA P management at local, regional, and international levels. Support and promote sustainable visitor uses and tourism initiatives in MPAs P. Maintain biosecurity, compliance, and emergency response, agreements between agencies. Work together for resilient parks. Improve our knowledge. Deliver services to improve the health of parks. Partnerships with agencies and community inform and support MPA management. Natural and cultural values in MPAs are protected through collaborative and targeted compliance programs with DEPI. Water quality threats to MPA values are recognised and addressed through collaboration. Invasive species impacts on MPAs are understood and managed to limit impacts.

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(22) 3. Program delivery approach 3.1 Park adaptive management Parks Victoria has adopted an adaptive management approach to environmental management. The Adaptive Management Framework (AMF) shown in Figure 4, will be applied to the management of both marine and terrestrial parks. Adaptive management allows for ongoing learning by continually assessing the success of actions in meeting management objectives, and allowing adjustment of management actions in the future. It is the integration of. various components of management to provide a framework that systematically tests assumptions, promotes learning and provides timely information for management decisions. Under this framework, conservation outcomes for the priority natural assets $%#

(23) objectives for the mitigation of threats. Figure 4: Adaptive Management Framework. to assets established, and management and monitoring strategies based on the objectives are developed. The framework provides logical steps and a range of tools to guide the effective implementation and evaluation of conservation projects and enables a clear connection to be made between desired conservation outcomes and actions on the ground.. Adaptive Management Framework steps: 1. Conceptualise what you will achieve in the context of where you are working. .

(24) . . 5. Share . 2. Plan both your actions and monitoring. 3. Implement both your actions and monitoring.. . Adaptive Management Framework. 5. Capture and share your results with key external and internal audiences to promote Learning.. State of the Parks.

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(27) . Parks Victoria Marine Protected Areas Program Plan 2012 – 2014. 4. Analyse your data to evaluate the effectiveness of your activities. Use your results to adapt your project to maximize impact..

(28) . The Adaptive Management Framework $%# % international best practice and is based on the Conservation Measures Partnership (CMP) Open Standards, which were developed as part of a collaboration of NGOs (including IUCN, WCPA, WWF and Nature Conservancy) and government agencies.. 17.

(29) 3.2 Conservation outcomes Conservation outcomes are an integral part of multi-year and annual implementation plans. The existing marine protected area management plans have broad management " outcome statements. Conservation outcomes will assist managers to identify where resources need to be allocated and as well as making it easier to assess and report on effectiveness of actions. Reporting, in report cards being developed for the marine national parks, requires clear conservation outcome statements to. report against. They will also help identify priority research and monitoring programs and allow more targeted programs. The Conservation Outcomes Hierarchy sits within the ‘Plan’ step of the Adaptive Management Framework (AMF) and is a process for developing statements about the desired condition of natural assets in a park or parks, and the acceptable level of threat to those assets, which management is seeking to achieve.. Conservation Outcomes Hierarchy for adaptive management. Conservation outcome statements will provide clearer and more measurable statements of the desired condition of natural assets. These statements and the report cards will help focus management on the key natural assets Parks Victoria is managing for and will be used to assess the extent to which management actions are working and to diagnose why some actions succeed while others do not. (Refer to Figure 5). Figure 5: The Conservation Outcomes Hierarchy * this sits within the ‘Plan’ step of the Adaptive Management Framework.. Conservation vision. Evaluation and reporting of condition and management effectiveness. Natural asset goals. Outcome Indicators, Target Ranges & Thresholds. State of the parks. Threat objectives. Effectiveness & Outcome Indicators, Target Ranges & Thresholds Management and monitoring implementation. Enabling objectives. Activity Indicators, Target Ranges & Thresholds Monitoring and evaluation plan (why, what, how, when, who). Management strategies. Activity Indicators, Target Ranges & Thresholds Parks Victoria Marine Protected Areas Program Plan 2012 – 2014. 18.

(30) 3.3 Risk management Parks Victoria’s Risk Management Framework applies the principles, framework and process in accordance with the international risk management standard ISO 31000. The Enterprise Risk Management Procedure documents a coordinated process to review and prioritise all risks impacting Parks Victoria as a whole and provides the evidence-based information and analysis to make informed decisions. The organisation’s risk management processes are structured into four components, being: ! and analysis of risks. ! consideration of treatment of risks. $ " ongoing evaluation of risk performance management performance including implementation of risk treatment plans.. & ongoing process for informing decision makers of risks. Assessing the existing and emerging risks for MPA management has been incorporated in a number of planning exercises over the decade, as shown in Table 1. There are also operational risk issues associated with staff competencies and training that need additional focus in a ‘model of cover’ for marine management and operations. In the broader management context, the Victorian Coastal Strategy (2008) ' + & " " in impacts on the coast, including rising sea levels.. < $%#

(31) Introduction of exotic marine species affecting biodiversity. Water quality impacts including increased nutrient and sediment loads entering parks. % = Visitor impacts including disturbance, trampling, collection of biota and artefacts. Lack of ecological knowledge ultimately leading to detrimental effects on park habitats, communities or ecosystems in general. Governance issues (both park management and external agencies) affecting park habitats, communities or ecosystems in general.. % " " is rapid in coastal areas. $

(32) the health of our unique and valued marine environment. $ $%# contribution to managing the Victorian coast and is directly impacted by these statewide issues. /

(33) marine waters of South-Eastern Australia are expected to experience the greatest climate driven changes in the southern hemisphere over the next century. Building resilience in marine ecosystems through addressing current and emerging threats to values is the key approach to addressing this overarching threat.. Risk assessment process and timeframe Marine National Park and Sanctuary Park Management Plan development (between 2003 – 2005) involved a risk assessment process. Regional planning. compliance activity. A series of stakeholder workshops across the state drew on the expertise of agency staff, community groups,

(34) academics, and knowledgeable park neighbours, to identify hazards of major concern in the parks. (Carey et al 2007). Pollution and litter from marine sources affecting park biota. Increased pressure on MPAs through urbanisation, coastal and port development and use of coastal resources.. Table 1: Risk assessment. Parks Victoria Marine Protected Areas Program Plan 2012 – 2014. > 19.

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(39) > " the frequency and intensity of storm events and storm surge. Increasing water temperatures and altered currents and water circulation systems with potential for changed species distribution including emergence of new invasive species. Sea level rise will create an ecological squeeze effect for intertidal organisms where an upper boundary (e.g. a road) limits opportunities for upward migration of species leading to loss of suitable habitat for some species.. Strategic Climate Change Risk Assessment in 2009 - 2010 for all MPAs. The risk assessment involved a workshop process drawing on staff expertise from across the organisation. These risk assessments have since been reviewed as part of the conservation outcome planning process in 2012.. A greater unknown but potentially very high risk is changed acidity (pH decline) " " impacts on food webs. Increased damage to infrastructure especially in coastal foreshore areas, with facilities and assets such as piers, jetties and boat launches impacted. Potential for major damage or the complete loss of heritage assets including buildings, structures and standing ruins and archaeological sites. ? . # =. 3.4 State of the Parks reporting The State of the Parks (SoP) program is the principal mechanism for evaluating the effectiveness of park management across the parks network.. It provides a systematic evaluation of the outcomes of management programs and the extent to which park management objectives are being met. The results of these evaluations can be applied at a range of scales from the whole parks network, to landscape types to individual parks. Evaluation of management effectiveness will assist Parks Victoria in reviewing achievements, highlight current challenges and emerging issues and inform and adapt its management as part of the AMF. The objectives of the SoP program are to: & the condition of parks and the current and emerging threatening processes that impact on parks. @ management as a means to deliver long-term objectives.. Parks Victoria Marine Protected Areas Program Plan 2012 – 2014. < D at a range of scales, from corporate and network to park level. < about Victoria’s parks and outcomes of Parks Victoria’s management of them. SoP provides an important means to ensure that the learning derived from gathered information is actually being applied to improving management. One of the performance measures listed in this Marine Plan, derived from SoP, is J Q " '

(40) information available for making informed decisions for planning environmental or visitor activities. While clearly a subjective measure which will vary between parks, this is an important measure to gauge the application of information to improve management, a key component of the Adaptive Management Framework.. 20.

(41) 4. Program areas Program areas This MPA Program Plan describes actions for the next 3 years, under the 12 program areas relevant for MPA management (refer to Table 2 ). The plan applies an adaptive management approach to the way programs are planned, delivered, reported and improved. The performance measures and indicators for each program area include activity measures and measures from the State of the Parks 2011 assessment.. Each of the 12 program area sections is set out in a consistent format with sections that cover:. 1.. Park planning and strategy. 2.. Compliance. 3.. Community and visitor engagement. 4.. Culture and heritage. t A purpose statement for the program.. 5.. Emergency management. 6.. Catchment and water management. t The program context in a brief description.. 7.. Invasive species. 8.. Knowledge and management effectiveness. 9.. Asset management. t A snapshot diagram of the adaptive management framework steps for the program.. 10. Tourism and recreation. t Actions, accountabilities and timeframes.. 11. Partnerships – Agencies. t Performance measurement.. 12. Partnerships – Community. Table 2: MPA Program areas. to Table 3 . Performance assessment and reporting are detailed in Section 6.. Accountabilities relate to Parks Victoria division – branch and regions Division. Branch / Directorate. Abbreviations used in Program action tables. The Lead Accountability will appear in bold in each table.. Environment and Heritage. Park Planning and Procedures Science and management effectiveness Conservation Programs Culture and Heritage Fire Environment Land and Water Community Engagement. E&H Planning E&H Science E&H Programs Cultural Heritage Emergency Management Community Engagement. Visitor Experiences. Visitor and Asset Strategy and Planning. VE Strategy VE Marketing and Education Tourism. Corporate Services. People and Culture. CS Human Resources. Regional Services. Compliance Coastal Regions. Compliance Regions. Table 3: MPA action accountabilities Parks Victoria Marine Protected Areas Program Plan 2012 – 2014. 21.

(42) Program Area 1: Park planning and strategy Align planning processes so that there is a clear connect between corporate and statewide priorities to regional and park operations.. Context Plans guide management activities to protect natural and cultural values, and the provision of services to visitors. Planning extends from the strategic directions provided in the corporate and business plans, operational plans such as this MPA plan, through to individual park management plans and regional and district action and implementation plans. Management plans that set the directions for each marine national park and marine sanctuary were prepared between 2003 and 2008. There are draft plans from the early 1990’s for the South Gippsland marine and coastal parks. The development of clear and measurable conservation outcomes including natural asset goals and threat objectives (and associated indicators). will inform more detailed implementation planning for MPAs. These plans are being done for groups of parks in a logical geographic landscape, using a landscape planning model. MPA management also requires an adequate work force to deliver program activities and this must also be planned for. A Model of Cover for MPA programs will be developed which will describe what is required to deliver the program including a consideration for staff ongoing staff training and skill development needs. Finally, as an important part of planning processes, consideration of MPAs in relevant planning referrals from other agencies or local government is also a key step to ensure that park values are recognised and protected.. Program snapshot Planning for implementation of MPA programs provides the line of sight from business planning to park on-ground implementation.. Consistent process across MPA programs. Ongoing improvement to program development. Information shared across regions.. 1. Define scope and context. 5. Share and learn. 2. Plan. Adaptive Management Framework. A statewide approach for parks. Conservation outcomes and objectives planning. Park management plans. Division and region action plans.. State of the Parks. 4. Analyse, adapt and apply. Contemporary plans in place. Information for decision making and priority actions for natural values and visitor services.. Parks Victoria Marine Protected Areas Program Plan 2012 – 2014. 3. Implement MPA program implemented. Adaptive management, objectives and targets. Risk assessment. Training and capacity building.. 22.

(43) Actions. Accountability. Finalise the Visitor Experience Framework to guide directions for planning visitor services that support the sustainable management of MPAs.. VE Strategy. Develop the direction the for divisional and regional annual MPA program (Service Statements).. E&H Programs. Develop annual region action plans incorporating service statement directions.. 2012. 2013. 2014. Regions. E&H Programs statements for MPAs. Lead workshop process for marine focussed conservation outcome statements.. E&H Science. Participate in development of conservation outcome statements for all MPAs and incorporate adaptive management processes and conservation outcomes into park implementation and regional operational plans.. Regions. Integrate conservation outcome statements into park implementation plans.. E&H Planning. Develop a model of cover to meet the organisations requirements for marine competencies and associated staff training pathways.. E&H Programs. Integrate MPA competencies into organisational standards.. CS Human Resources. Implement staff training and capacity building for marine competencies including compliance, invasive species and heritage management, communication, interagency liaison, planning and science support roles.. Regions. Progressively implement the landscape plan model for park management plans. Current South-west Parks Plan and the South Gippsland marine and coastal park implementation plans to be prepared as a priority.. E&H Programs. Assist preparation of implementation plans.. Regions. Assist preparation of implementation plans.. VE Strategy. Undertake regular reviews and assessment of risks at through statewide and regional processes to inform management.. E&H Programs. Risk assessment included as part of research, monitoring and research partner projects.. E&H Science. Utilise risk assessment as part of compliance and operational planning.. Regions. Parks Victoria Marine Protected Areas Program Plan 2012 – 2014. 23.

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(47) /% reports in management reviews.. E&H Programs. Ensure improvements in planning approaches are shared across the. E&H Programs. 2012. 2013. 2014. organisation and with partners.. Prepare for a new Statewide Marine National Park, Marine Sanctuary and other MPA management strategy post 2014.. E&H Programs. Provide responses to planning referrals that have potential to impact. Regions. on MPAs including proposals for developments, dredging, provision of works, or local port and recreational management.. Performance measurement Indicators and measures are focussed on operational compliance management; the management response and the impacts of non-compliance derived from State of the Parks (SoP) reporting (refer Appendix 3); formalised agency agreement and offence reporting data.. Key Performance Indicators. Measures. Planning frameworks for conservation and visitor services.. Frameworks developed. Staff training and capacity building for marine of % of trained and currently skilled staff.. Model of Cover established and staff training in place. /

(48) planning and decision making for natural values management (SoP measure).. Y $%# " for decision making. * Parks managed to conservation objectives and targets.. % of the Parks Victoria estate managed and targets. * Corporate performance indicator. Parks Victoria Marine Protected Areas Program Plan 2012 – 2014. 24.

(49) Program Area 2: Compliance Achieve e ective compliance to protect natural and cultural values within Victoria’s MPAs through collaborative arrangements with the Department of Environment and Primary Industries and other agencies and coastal managers.. Context Compliance with the legislative framework is critical to ensure the park values are protected. Prohibited activities in marine national parks and sanctuaries include recreational and commercial well as other activities that may impact on ecological, geological, scenic, archaeological, historic or other values. A systematic approach to setting priorities, routine patrols and surveillance and where possible integration and standard approaches with DEPI. Effective compliance is gained through promotion of community and stakeholder understanding of the regulations applying in MPAs and enforcement of the regulations where voluntary compliance fails. Communication of the results of enforcement actions can. deter other potential o enders. E ective education and enforcement programs are enhanced by a cooperative approach with relevant agencies, particularly Fisheries Victoria. Compliance within MPAs also includes management of visitor safety and is a further role for Parks Victoria’s marine focussed sta . This important function ensures that visitors behave appropriately so as to maintain opportunities for safe enjoyment of the parks by all. Compliance with regulations established under the Marine Safety Act, Environment Protection Act, and other marine related heads of power, require rangers to be adequately trained and prepared to carry out their roles, often in partnership with or as a support to other agencies.. Program snapshot Compliance activities cover a spectrum from information and education to support voluntary compliance through to enforcement.. Agency information sharing. Links with communications and education. Management experiences shared across regions.. 1. Define scope and context. 5. Share and learn. 2. Plan. Adaptive Management Framework. Formalised agreements between Agencies. Risk assessment and priority setting. Communications messages.. State of the Parks. 4. Analyse, adapt and apply. O ence reporting. Impact of non-compliance on environmental resource. Community perception and behaviour.. Parks Victoria Marine Protected Areas Program Plan 2012 – 2014. 3. Implement Operational delivery of compliance activity patrol, intelligence sharing, surveillance, community education. Sta training and capacity.. 25.

(50) Actions. Accountability. Develop a framework for managing compliance that provides the program detail for a statewide approach to compliance. Include targets and reporting arrangements for illegal activities in a formalised statewide compliance agreement with DPI Fisheries.. Compliance. Establish agreed compliance principles with DPI Fisheries.. GM Environment & Heritage. Implement assigned role and task in regional compliance arrangements – patrols, surveillance and reporting.. Regions. Identify compliance priorities from risk assessments in the implementation plans and MPA annual program for input to statewide and regional arrangements.. E&H Planning. 2012. 2013. 2014. Compliance and maritime regulations across the community (link with Program Area 3 Community and Visitor Engagement). Integrate compliance messages in communications planning.. VE Marketing and Education. Integrate compliance into tour operator messages and activities across marine areas and MPAs in line with DSE objectives and reforms.. Tourism. Prepare district education and MPA compliance plans and incorporate into the Marine Operations Manual.. Regions. Build Parks Victoria staff capacity in compliance management for MPAs including focussed training (link with Program Area 1 Park Planning and Strategy).. Compliance. Implement staff training and capacity building for compliance management (link to Program Area 1 Park Planning and Strategy). Indentify new technologies to assist in compliance for illegal activities. Deploy new technologies to assist in compliance for illegal activities.. Regions. E&H Science. Regions. Compliance reports in compliance reviews. Ensure improvements in compliance approaches are shared across the organisation and with partners.. Parks Victoria Marine Protected Areas Program Plan 2012 – 2014. Compliance. 26.

(51) Performance measurement Indicators and measures are focussed on operational compliance management; the management response and the impacts of non-compliance derived from State of the Parks (SoP) reporting (refer Appendix 3); formalised agency agreement and o ence reporting data.. Performance Indicators. Measures. Sta capacity in compliance management.. Adequate sta capacity. E ectiveness of patrols and surveillance activity.. Numbers of interactions with MPA users, tour operators. Trend realtive to compliance effort. Parks Victoria Marine Protected Areas Program Plan 2012 – 2014. Management response to non-compliance (SoP measure).. % MPAs with planned comprehensive approach. Current impact of non-compliance (SoP measure).. % MPAs greater than moderate impact on conservation values. Trend in impact of non-compliance (SoP measure).. % MPAs with trend decreasing or unknown. Increased compliance activity of marine tour operators.. Number of licensed operators delivering compliance messages. Agency agreement with DEPI.. Compliance agreement in place. 27.

(52) Program Area 3: Community and visitor engagement Raise awareness, enhance visitor experiences and assist in the management of threats.. Context. unique marine biodiversity, species and and activities that impact on these assets.. Effective communications will assist in building engaged, well-informed and aware communities and interest groups, working with park managers, and acting as stewards and ambassadors for the marine environment, through the provision of timely and appropriate information. Key communications objectives are:. Z

(53) " regulations and the safe and responsible use of marine protected areas by reducing increasing the perception that offenders will be caught.. Z $%# Victorians understand the purpose and and have increased awareness of the. Z " % [ role as a responsible manager of MPAs and in protecting the environmental health of the marine protected areas.. Program area snapshot Communications covers information, interpretation and education activities. Links to management of compliance and tourism.. Results of program delivery. Impact of messages on visitor behaviour. Management experiences to inform planning and shared across regions.. .

(54) . . 5. Share . . Adaptive Management Framework. Plan activities and messages to meet objectives: To raise the

(55) compliance and Parks Victoria's reputation as MPA manager.. State of the Parks.

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(58) . Park management activities to meet visitor experience needs. Community Satisfaction research. Visitor research.. Parks Victoria Marine Protected Areas Program Plan 2012 – 2014.

(59) Communication products and services and key messages developed and delivered including in partnerships and by tour operators.. 28.

(60) Actions. Accountability. Implement the statewide approaches from the 2012-2014 MPA Visitor Communications Plan .. VE Marketing and Education. Deliver on-ground communications, interpretation and education services through Parks Victoria staff delivery, in accordance with the 2012-2014 MPA Visitor Communications Plan .. Regions. Use events and partnerships including with licensed tour operators and other agencies to promote MPA messages.. VE Marketing and Education. Develop the directions for ‘Discovery and Learning’ for marine interpretation and education. Deliver an integrated approach to providing information interpretation and education across regions.. Provide and support communications including development of new technology that raise awareness of the significance and purpose of MPAs, and support behaviour and compliance and Parks Victoria’s management role.. VE Marketing and Education. Integrate science and research into communications products.. E&H Science. Utilise and develop communications products to deliver the key messages, enhance visitor experiences and complement active enforcement.. Regions. Promote MPAs as destinations for unique marine tourism recreation opportunities.. Tourism. Tourism. Deliver ongoing and up to date support for tour operators.. Regions. Establish formal links with DSE Coastcare for environmental stewardship of marine and coasts.. E&H Programs. Commission and communicate relevant market and visitor research.. VE Marketing and Education E&H Science. reports in annual communication review.. VE Marketing and Eduction. Ensure improvements in communication approaches are shared across the organisation and with partners.. VE Marketing and Eduction. Parks Victoria Marine Protected Areas Program Plan 2012 – 2014. 2014. Regions. Regions. Identify the priorities for market research to understand park visitor needs and perceptions.. 2013. VE Marketing and Education. Implement ‘Discovery and Learning’ for marine interpretation and education at parks and Parks Victoria managed sites and through education partnerships.. Involve tour operators and other tourism providers in MPA communications and deliver key messages about Victoria’s marine habitats and species.. 2012. 29.

(61) Performance measurement Indicators and measures are targeted at on-ground delivery of interpretation and education programs with the intent for them to increase; measures derived from State of the Parks (SoP) reporting for management effectiveness (refer Appendix 3); and community awareness and perception data from surveys.. Parks Victoria Marine Protected Areas Program Plan 2012 – 2014. Performance Indicators. Measures. Implementation of ‘Discovery and Learning’ for marine interpretation and education.. Delivery in numbers of programs and participation. Support provided to involve tour operators in delivering key messages.. % of performing tour operators. Extent to which interpretation programs met the needs of park management and legitimate visitor expectations (SoP measure).. % of programs that substantially meet needs. Management response to interpretation (SoP measure).. % MPAs with comprehensive, planned approach. Extent education programs met the needs of park management and legitimate visitor expectations (SoP measure).. % of programs that substantially meet needs. Management response to education programs (SoP measure).. % MPAs with planned or comprehensive approach. Awareness of knowledge and understanding of park regulations.. % rating from survey. Community satisfaction rating of good or very good with the management of marine protected areas.. % rating from survey. 30.

(62) Program Area 4: Culture and heritage Aboriginal cultural heritage context. Protect, manage and appreciate Aboriginal and European cultural values in MPAs.. associated with the marine environment such as middens, burials, story places and cultural resource use places are part ?

(63) ongoing connection between people and place. It is possible that some MPAs may become formally jointly managed in the future under the terms of the Traditional Owner Settlement Act.. The cultural values associated with MPAs are diverse. They include the connection between Aboriginal people and Sea Country. This connection can be expressed through active involvement in marine management, use of cultural resources, and the interpretation of cultural stories. The array of Aboriginal cultural places. Program snapshot The relationship with Traditional Owners including for land management and the protection of Indigenous cultural values.. Traditional Owner sharing of knowledge to inform management. Experience of joint /collaborative management.. .

(64) . . 5. Share . . Adaptive Management Framework. Traditional Owner Partnerships Strategy (TOPS). Park management, interpretation and education plans.. State of the Parks.

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(67) . Condition of heritage sites and places. Management of threatening processes. Compliance with legislation.. Parks Victoria Marine Protected Areas Program Plan 2012 – 2014.

(68) Indigenous partnerships. Heritage conservation and assessment. Monitoring, recording and interpretation of values.. 31.

(69) Actions. Accountability. Implement the Traditional Owner Partnership Strategy (TOPS) to provide the over-arching framework for Aboriginal cultural heritage management.. Cultural Heritage. Support implementation of the TOPS to progress the links with cultural heritage and land management by providing access to expertise and guidance.. 2013. 2014. Regions. Develop a strategic approach to managing Aboriginal cultural. Cultural Heritage. Identify and prioritise heritage conservation and assessment projects.. Cultural Heritage. Implement funded heritage conservation and assessment projects focused on documenting and understanding the connection between Aboriginal people and key MPAs.. Regions. Ensure that Aboriginal cultural values are incorporated where suitable into any interpretation and education program delivered in MPAs.. 2012. Regions. Cultural Heritage reports to working with TOs. Ensure improvements in approaches to working with TOs is shared across the organisation and with partners.. Cultural Heritage. Implement Management Plan actions for protecting and interpreting Indigenous cultural heritage values in MPAs with all works and programs compliant with the terms of the Aboriginal Heritage Act and the Native Title Act.. Regions. Support any state based process focused on the return of MPAs to Aboriginal title and assist with the development of associated joint management arrangements.. GM E&H and GM Regional Services. Respond proactively to any request by the Aboriginal community in relation to collaborative MPR management.. GM E&H and GM Regional Services. Develop sta awareness of MPA Aboriginal cultural values and build their capacity to carry out key heritage tasks such as monitoring, recording and project management.. Regions. Performance measurement. Performance Indicators. Measures. Indicators and measures are for compliance with legislation; relationships with Aboriginal partners; and from State of the Parks (SoP) reporting for a planned management approach (refer Appendix 3).. Adequacy of information to support planning and decision making for Aboriginal heritage values.. support planning and decision making. Approach to Traditional Owner consultation and involvement in decision making.. % MPAs with an established process of consultation. > Parks Victoria Marine Protected Areas Program Plan 2012 – 2014. 32.

(70) Living heritage context The broader Victorian community also vests MPAs with an array of cultural and social values. These values can derive from personal, family and community history and are related to connections or attachment to both activities and physical places such as shipwrecks and structures like lightstations. People have a history of interaction with MPAs through recreational and traditional use which is woven into. Performance Indicators. Measures. Management response to Aboriginal heritage values.. % MPAs with planned or comprehensive approach. Compliance with legislation.. No avoidable breaches of AHA and NT Act. Aboriginal partners rating the relationship with Parks Victoria as good or very good.. % rating. their family history and which shapes their views about MPA management. In addition, the community desires the retention of healthy marine environments as an intrinsic heritage value. Acknowledging this history and ongoing connection requires investment in cultural place research, monitoring, recording and protection; the management of historical collections; the recording of stories; and the establishment of. innovative interpretation and education programs. Adequate information, tools and training are required to manage and protect historic places and objects, promote appropriate activities and create opportunities for interpretation and improved understanding in recognition of “Shipping along the coast” being one of Parks Victoria’s key historic themes. Cooperation with key partners, such as Heritage Victoria, will be critical.. Program snapshot Heritage covers protection and management of European heritage sites and places.. Best practice heritage protection. Sharing of knowledge to inform management.. 1. Define scope and context. Parks Victoria Heritage Strategy. Park management plans.. 5. Share and learn. 2. Plan. Adaptive Management Framework State of the Parks. 4. Analyse, adapt and apply. Condition of heritage sites and places. Management of threatening processes.. Parks Victoria Marine Protected Areas Program Plan 2012 – 2014. 3. Implement. Actions to protect sites and places within MPAs. Inventory of heritage values.. 33.

(71) Actions. Accountability. Implement the new Parks Victoria Heritage Strategy to provide the statewide direction for the management of European heritage values in parks.. Cultural Heritage. Implement Heritage Strategy actions to research and manage heritage assets, sites and places. Review arrangements with Heritage Victoria for managing heritage sites and shipwrecks and seek to develop operational procedures and protocols. r. Implement prioritised actions in partnership with Heritage Victoria and maintain a working relationship.. 2012. 2013. 2014. Regions. Cultural Heritage. Regions. Implement Management Plan actions for protecting and interpreting cultural heritage values in MPAs including support for inventory an site plans as required with Heritage Victoria.. Regions. Implement sta training in association with Heritage Victoria. Regions. shipwrecks, support enforcement of the Heritage Act.. Performance measurement Indicators and measures are focussed on working with Heritage Victoria; and measures derived from State of the Parks reporting (refer Appendix 3) for managing threats to the condition of heritage values.. Parks Victoria Marine Protected Areas Program Plan 2012 – 2014. Performance Indicators. Measures. Working relationship with Heritage Victoria in place as routine management.. Number of issues or projects. and decision making for heritage values.. for planning and decision making. Management response to heritage values.. % MPAs with planned or comprehensive approach. 34.

(72) Program Area 5: Emergency management Context. Ensure that Parks Victoria has the planning and responsibilities set out in the Victorian Emergency Management Manual for response to marine incidents as support for other agencies.. Parks Victoria has responsibilities for marine emergencies where they occur within managed areas, or to contribute as a part of statewide emergency response teams and provide support for lead agencies in managing emergencies in other areas. Potential marine emergencies include. " marine pest or disease outbreaks, and a range of safety and human situations from vessel groundings to rescues.. When any of these incidents occur Parks Victoria must be clear on lead agency arrangements and its responsibilities as. take direction from the controlling agency on appropriate actions.. Program snapshot Emergency management covers Parks Victoria’s role across marine pollution and wildlife incident response with other agencies.. Cross regional skills and knowledge transfers (e.g. risk assessments). Incident response learning shared across regions.. .

(73) . . 5. Share . . Adaptive Management Framework. Interagency arrangements for Parks Victoria’s support role in Victorian emergency management, marine pollution and response.. State of the Parks.

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(76) . Emergency management response effectiveness. Visitor safety incidents and trends.. Parks Victoria Marine Protected Areas Program Plan 2012 – 2014.

(77) . Implementation procedures and guidelines in marine operations manual, SEMPs. Staff training and capacity.. 35.

(78) Actions. for marine pollution responses in accordance with the Victorian Marine Pollution Contingency Plan (VICPLAN) and Wildlife Response (link with Program Area 1 Park Planning and Strategy). Implement park emergency management plans and arrangements with controlling agencies (e.g. marine pollution, cetacean wildlife and marine pest emergencies).. Accountability. 2013. 2014. Emergency Management. Regions. Develop and maintain service agreements with Department of Transport and DEPI to provide clarity around institutional arrangements for emergency response, including marine emergency response and training arrangements (pollution, wildlife).. Emergency Management. Develop and maintain Parks Victoria’s Marine Operation Manual and safety and environment management plans (SEMPs) for the local ports of Port Phillip, Western Port and Port Campbell to provide staff with response procedures and arrangements.. Regions. Improve the structure and content of the Marine Operations Manual at keep it updated with relevant procedures and practices for emergency response applicable for all coastal regions.. 2012. Regions. Regions Parks Victoria’s emergency management support role, including agency and community networks. (link with Program Area 1 Park Planning and Strategy). Integrate marine competencies into organisational standards.. CS Human Resources E&H Programs. reviews in organisational risk management procedure. Incorporate risk assessments into operational practices and response.. Parks Victoria Marine Protected Areas Program Plan 2012 – 2014. Regions. 36.

(79) Performance measurement Indicators and measures are focussed on having the response arrangements and capacity for on-ground delivery of emergency response; measures derived from State of the Parks (SoP) reporting for visitor safety (refer Appendix 3); and numbers of incidents.. Parks Victoria Marine Protected Areas Program Plan 2012 – 2014. Performance Indicators. Measures. Sta capacity in emergency response.. Procedures and practices for emergency response documented.. Marine Operations Manual Corporate Policy and Procedures Framework. Management response to visitor safety (SoP measure).. % MPAs with planned comprehensive approach. Trend in level of visitor safety incidents (SoP measure).. % MPAs with trend stable. Current level of incidents, numbers, type, trends.. Numbers of incidents where MPA values are adequately recognised. 37.

(80) Program Area 6: Catchment and water management Protect MPAs and marine environment from catchment pollution and pressures through partnerships with catchment management authorities, waterway managers, partner agencies and the community.. Context Marine protected areas are not islands that exist in isolation, but are part of a much broader land and seascape that includes their catchments, the areas from which visitors come, and connections with the broader marine environment. MPAs lie at the bottom of large catchment areas, Sediments and nutrients derived from catchment activities have been recognised through risk assessment undertaken as a consistent threat to marine values across the state. As high value areas,. MPAs provide a significant asset for improved integration of efforts in coastal catchments in relation to water quality. This will improve protection for marine values at risk from poor water quality through coordinated actions amongst all natural resource managers, other agencies and local government, industry groups particularly agricultural, and with the broader community. These approaches are consistent with directions established in the Victorian Coastal Strategy for Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM).. Program snapshot Catchments and water quality covers actions to protect MPAs as the high value areas at the receiving end of catchment inputs.. Learnings from ICZM partnerships – CMAs, EPA coastal boards, DSE. Data and results inform new plans and projects.. 1. Define scope and context. 5. Share and learn. 2. Plan. Adaptive Management Framework. Integrated coastal zone management (ICZM). Park management plans, catchment strategies, water quality plans.. State of the Parks. 4. Analyse, adapt and apply. Park management response. ICZM partnerships. Trends and impacts from catchment inputs on water quality.. Parks Victoria Marine Protected Areas Program Plan 2012 – 2014. 3. Implement MPA advocacy in plans and improvement projects: - agency - community - industry. 38.

(81) Actions. Accountability. 2012. 2013. 2014. E&H Programs Victorian Coastal Strategy, Regional Catchment Strategies and relevant Coastal Action Plans. Plans recognise the marine national park system and other MPAs as a high value for protection and describe strategies to improve water quality. Provide technical advice to regions for water quality monitoring programs to be delivered in partnership with regional water and catchment authorities and community.. E&H Science. Provide support and inform ICZM projects and water quality plans (including CMA monitoring programs, Melbourne Water, EPA, Research Partners) where appropriate and link to MPA protection.. Regions. Identify priority areas where catchment inputs are impacting MPAs and advocate for appropriate treatments.. Regions. Include actions to minimize the threats from catchment issues including water quality in park management plans.. E&H Planning. Include water quality messaging in the context of relevant MPAs as part of statutory planning responses and information, interpretation and education activities.. Regions. Promote marine values at risk from poor water quality to. Regions. groups and community.. Performance measurement Indicators and measures are focussed on building knowledge of water quality impacts on MPAs from State of the Parks (SoP) reporting (refer Appendix 3); and involvement in ICZM projects.. Parks Victoria Marine Protected Areas Program Plan 2012 – 2014. Performance Indicators Trend in impact of inappropriate water regimes/water quality (SoP measure).. Measures. of impacts to enable assessment of the trend. Management response to inappropriate water regimes/water quality (SoP measure).. % MPAs with planned comprehensive approach. Delivery of ICZM projects.. Effectiveness of projects. 39.

(82) Program Area 7: Invasive species management Minimise the risks posed by the introduction and spread of marine invasive species in the MPAs.. Context. /@

(83) for managing exotic marine organism incursions and response to detection of new incursions in the MPA system. Parks Victoria has a clear role as protected area manager to prevent establishment or spread of marine pests within MPAs. Parks Victoria will contribute to building capacity of staff, research partners, tour operators, contractors and community groups to ensure that detection and reporting of marine invasive species, while methods of prevention, and limiting spread and impacts continue to improve.. Marine invasive species represent a major risk to biodiversity values within the MPA system. While not all introduced marine species become pests, Victoria has a number of known incursions that have markedly impacted on marine ecosystems, particularly in Port Philip Bay. Some species expanding their range into Victoria with climate change and over-abundant species indigenous to Victoria, can also exhibit pest-like qualities. Managing and preventing introductions is the most effective means of minimising the impact of invasive species on park values.. Program snapshot Management of marine invasive species covers Parks Victoria’s role in preventing their introduction and spread in MPAs and local ports.. Detection and monitoring information shared between agencies. Impact of messages for public education and behaviour change.. .

(84) . . 5. Share . . Adaptive Management Framework. Inter-agency arrangements for invasive species incursions and marine biosecurity – roles, responsibilities and processes. Parks Victoria marine operations manual.. State of the Parks.

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(87) . Impact and spread of marine invasive species. Management response and effectiveness, including interagency arrangements.. Parks Victoria Marine Protected Areas Program Plan 2012 – 2014.

(88) Implement marine pest incident protocols. Practice and communicate prevention best practice for vessels. Monitoring and research.. 40.

(89) Actions. Accountability. Contribute to response arrangements with other agencies including the National Environmental Biosecurity Response Agreement (NEBRA), and the Invasive Plants and Animals Framework that will be updated to include marine pest and disease protocols that recognise the impact of pests and diseases on marine environmental values.. E&H Programs. Contribute to the development of a Biosecurity Plan for Victoria’s marine environment with DPI and DSE.. E&H Programs. Clarify interagency arrangements and roles in marine pest management.. E&H Programs. Develop and communicate a framework for managing impacts of invasive species and over-abundant native fauna populations including species that have changed range as a consequence of changes in climate.. E&H Programs. Develop monitoring techniques and practices to understand the extent and impact of the threat from marine pests and over-abundant native species.. E&H Science. Participate in and support operations to detect and respond including surveillance for marine invasive species.. Regions. Marine pest training package developed for staff.. E&H Programs. Update marine pest incident protocols in the Marine Operations Manual including divisional and regional accountabilities. (link to Program Area 1 - Park Planning and Strategy). Regions. Support preventative management through increased capacity building, staff training, and the development of marine pest risk assessment and ready response incursion management protocols.. Regions. Demonstrate best practice in marine pest prevention through vessel cleaning and maintenance and take a role in advocacy for vessel and equipment hygiene as a tool to prevent spread by movements of vessels i.e. the DSE brochure Aquatic Pests: Treat ‘em mean – keep your boat clean .. Regions. 2012. 2013. 2014. >. Parks Victoria Marine Protected Areas Program Plan 2012 – 2014. 41.

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