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Project on Ocean Governance (POG)

Welcome

The Pew Ocean Commission and the US Commission on Ocean Policy both recommended a regional approach to issues of ocean resource management. The concept makes sense in theory: "ecosystem-based" management will require thinking and acting across a geography defined by natural features rather than jurisdictional boundaries, and tackling the complex issues of ocean management effectively will require local expertise and leadership. But despite strong consensus on the need for and benefits of a regional approach to ocean governance, how to do it in real places is not clear.

Both ocean commissions recommended pilot projects to connect the theory to practice. The University of Washington School of Marine Affairs and The Nature Conservancy, in partnership with NOAA, will assess whether a pilot project in the Pacific Northwest could lead to a model for regional, ecosystem-based ocean governance.

Over a 12-month period beginning in September, 2004 we will assess four factors that could determine the likelihood of success of a pilot project in the Pacific Northwest. This is a fact-finding and assessment project, not a proposal to govern the Northwest ocean in a new way or replace any current resource management programs or agencies. Our goal is to answer four questions:

  1. 1.Are there applicable models for an approach to regional ocean governance, in the Northwest or elsewhere?
  2. Can we reasonably expect local and regional leadership and participation in a Northwest pilot project?
  3. Do we have the information resources we need, organized and ready to support good decisions? If not, where are the gaps?
  4. What are the priority issues that might be addressed by a pilot project?

In general, the role of the University of Washington is to research applicable models, the potential for leadership and participation, and priority issues. The Nature Conservancy is organizing information on the region and will assess further information needs. NOAA supports both functions through its Coastal Services Center. The most important participants are the people who share information and opinions, because their input will shape the conclusions of the assessment.

At this point it is unclear if a pilot project is likely to be authorized or funded. At the conclusion of the assessment project a report and recommendation will be filed with NOAA. If the assessment of the four factors is favorable, it will be recommend that the Pacific Northwest be considered for a pilot project. Most importantly, this study provides an objective perspective on the work to be done if a regional approach to ocean governance is to take root in the Pacific Northwest.

 

Marc Hershman
Professor, School of Marine Affairs
Former Member of the US Commission on Ocean Policy (USCOP)

UW School of Marine Affairs
3707 Brooklyn Ave. NE
Seattle, WA 98105-6715
uwsma@u.washington.edu