The ecological coherence and economic & social benefits of the Northern Ireland MPA network: A report to the Northern Ireland Marine Task Force

This study develops and applies a novel technique for assessing the ecological coherence of a network of MPAs. In general, the current NI MPA network meets the network design criteria of representativity, replication, connectivity, adequacy and viability, and demonstrates a good level of ecological coherence. Relative weaknesses in the network are assessed through a gap analysis (focussing on representativity, adequacy, replication and connectivity) identifying areas that, if designated, would further improve the coherence of the network. The potential benefits to society of this extended network of MPAs are estimated using an established valuation method, previously applied to English and Scottish waters. The present value of the extended Northern Ireland network is estimated to be in the region of £52.8 million to £54.5 million (3.5% discount rate over a 20 years period) depending on the management regimes that are adopted for the network.