Scientific information needs for the management of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park 2009-2014

Abstract

The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA) uses the best available scientific information in many ways. The scientific information needs of the GBRMPA require both research and monitoring. While some science needed is clearly one or the other, other science may have characteristics of both. To facilitate the delivery of the science needed to manage the Marine Park, the GBRMPA has twice published sets of explicit scientific information needs, once in 2001 and then again in 2005. This document is the latest update in the series. The purpose of this document is to facilitate discussion between scientists and Marine Park managers about research and monitoring that will help inform Marine Park management, especially high priorities. It is a framework for integrating science into the management of the Marine Park.