From regional effectiveness evaluation and community engagement toward effective marine protected areas

Marine protected areas (MPAs) are important conservation tools; however, many fail to achieve their full potential because of design and management deficiencies. Evaluating MPA management effectiveness (ME) is essential for identifying deficiency issues in conservations and guiding improvements. This study established an indicator-based framework to evaluate ME tailored to Taiwan's MPAs through literature reviews, expert consultations, and stakeholder workshops. We applied 28 indicators to the ME evaluation of 30 fishery conservation zones (FCZs), utilizing semi-structured interviews with stakeholders, questionnaires, analysis of ecological reports, and on-site visits. Only two MPAs were rated as highly effective; most were poorly managed, with deficiencies in ecological monitoring, enforcement, and stakeholder participation. A case study combined a quantitative ME evaluation with collaborative action research involving governments, scientists, and communities to address issues and accelerate enhancements in the Qimei FCZ. Initial low scores prompted workshops to engage stakeholders in identifying problems such as incorrect boundaries, lack of ecological data, and enforcement challenges. This led to boundary revisions, citizen scientist training, and proposals for no-take zones to improve enforcement. The evaluation revealed management deficiencies in Taiwan's MPAs, while action research catalyzed solutions through participative processes. Region-specific indicator frameworks aligned with local priorities are vital for optimizing MPA benefits. This study provides an exemplary quantitative-qualitative approach, coupling evidence-based evaluations and collaborative action research to improve MPA management.