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1. On a scale of 1 to 6 – with 1 being strongly support, 5 being strongly against and 6 being I don’t know – how strongly do you support the proposed design of the Heard Island and McDonald Islands Marine Reserve?
2. Please provide any comments explaining your response to the first question.
The proposed design reflects the understanding that unique marine features and habitats require representation and protection in the Reserve. These features are home to endemic species, many of which are benthic with limited dispersal capabilities and vulnerability to commercial operations.
3. Please provide any comments relating to the proposed boundaries, zoning and assigned IUCN categories for the proposed Heard Island and McDonald Islands Marine Reserve.
The boundaries make use of the EEZ limitations effectively, complementing adjacent protection zones to maximise ecological connectivity. The assigned categories take into account research and monitoring activities, while ensuring the commercial fishery continues in its capability to be sustainable and a global resource.
4. Please provide any comments relating to natural values and/or pressures within the proposed Heard Island and McDonald Islands Marine Reserve.
Changes in migration and dispersal due to changing climatic conditions mean expansion of the Reserve is essential. Pressures include species within the reserve changing habitat and alien species making use of the HIMI ecosystem. It is essential to monitor and manage these changes to maximise protection of biodiversity and ecosystem function.
1. Please provide any comments relating to the management, protection and conservation of the Reserve.
Research and monitoring activities are essential in informing management decisions to promote ecosystem function and biodiversity. By implementing a management plan that optimises these information-gathering processes, commercial and conservation activities will be improved.
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