An evaluation of the social and economic impact of a Marine Protected Area on commercial fisheries

Abstract This study is an insight into the spatial use and economic performance of a fishery linked fisher wellbeing across economic, social health domains over 12-year timescale pre- post-Marine Protected Area (MPA) designation. Since MPA designation, there has been increase in vessels using static gear inside outside MPA, with significant positive trend for MPA. Over time, landings have decreased by 110 kg per vessel month, although time value (landings £1,452 month), to catches high species such as lobster, which are associated reef ecosystem. Fishing activity providing volume (weight) from mobile demersal gears within ceased July 2008. Mobile fishing effort since increased significantly The 2017 comparable prior but not reached peak values 2008 when was designated. Fishers predominantly report lower subjective material losses. Static fishers higher levels compared their counterparts. Positive pronounced involved independent working group. Sustainability ecological, systems requires integrated rather than sequential approach fisheries management marine conservation.