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MCZ Levels of Evidence 2016

Abstract

These documents provide advice on the data supporting a feature/site for designation as a Marine Conservation Zone (MCZ) from a scientific, evidence-based perspective. The purpose of them was to set out an approach for providing Defra with advice on the interpretation of evidence and data certainty assessments.

The initial document was produced by JNCC and Natural England in 2011. 'Levels of evidence required for the identification, designation and management of Marine Conservation Zones' was produced to provide an overview of the levels of evidence required for the different parts of the MCZ process (identification, designation, implementation), based on JNCC's and Natural England's experience of other MPAs

An revised document ('Advice on when data supports a feature/site for designation from a scientific, evidence-based perspective') was produced in 2015, and follows on from the initial document. This was developed following consideration of the selection process for MCZs that were designated in 2013 (hereafter referred to as ‘Tranche One MCZs’) to inform the selection process for the second tranche of MCZs. The advice was used by JNCC and Natural England during the provision of advice to Defra regarding the Tranche Two designation of MCZs.

Owing to the nature of the scope of Tranche Three, some changes to the process set out were required, and as such an addendum was made to this paper in November 2016.

The approach outlined in the 2015 document and addendum is based on the MCZ Advice protocols, produced in 2012 and 2013.

Resource type Publication

Topic category Oceans

Reference date 2016··

Lineage
These documents set out a process for providing scientific advice on the interpretation of Marine Conservation Zone (MCZ) evidence and data-certainty assessments.

Responsible organisation
Communications, JNCC author

Limitations on public access No limitations

Use constraints Available under the Open Government Licence 3.0

Metadata date 2020·04·22

Metadata point of contact
Communications, JNCC

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