Abstract

Marine reserve outcomes or reserve performance is related to the complexities of linked social and ecological systems. In this study, we examine the formal and informal governing arrangements linking humans and natural resources, the social and ecological context within which these arrangements are embedded, and the effect these arrangements have on the performance of marine reserves. In 2006 - 2008, a systematic survey was conducted of thirty one reserves in the wider Caribbean, all containing coral reef habitat. Ecological conditions were assessed by making SCUBA surveys of coral reefs inside each reserve and at nearby control sites. Key informant interviews, structured surveys, and documentary analysis were used to assess the political, social, and cultural conditions in the surrounding human communities. Indicators of reserve performance were developed by combining social and ecological measurements to gain a more complete understanding of overall performance. Interrelationships between data on reserve characteristics, management outputs, participatory process features, user compliance, community members’ perceptions of reserve effects, and other governance factors were examined in relation to reserve outcomes. Marine reserve managers in the Caribbean can incorporate these results into on-going management programs to help reserves meet social and ecological objectives.

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