When to conduct, and when not to conduct, management strategy evaluations

Abstract The basis of natural resource management is decision making under uncertainty while balancing competing objectives. Within fisheries management, a process described as strategy evaluation (MSE) becoming increasingly requested globally to develop and test procedures. In or other context, procedure rule that predetermines the response given feedback from simulation tested be robust multiple uncertainties. MSEs are distinguished risk analyses by explicit testing mechanism applies rule-based advice back simulated population ecosystem. Stakeholder input frequently cited best practice in MSE process, since it fosters communication facilitates buy-in process. Nevertheless, due substantial additional cost, time requirement, necessary scientific personnel, full stakeholder remain relatively uncommon. With this communication, we provide guidance on what constitutes an MSE, when should undertaken where simpler approaches may suffice, how prioritize degree participation.