Assessing the Conservation Efficacy of the Dry Tortugas National Park Research Natural Area

摘要

The newly established Research Natural area (RNA) of Dry Tortugas National Park (DTNP) is a 46-square mile marine reserve designed to restore ecological integrity and capacity for self-renewal by minimizing the effects of human activities. Anchoring and fishing ae prohibited within the RNA. This report presenta a science plan developed by the National Park Service (NPS) and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) that will be used to assess the effectiveness of the RNA. The goal of establishing the Dry Tortugas National Park RNA is to protect shallow water marine habitat, ensure species diversity, and enhance the productivity and sustainability of fish populations throughtout the region. The RNA provides a unique unexploited area that can be used to help assess the effects of fishing on exploited areas. Long-Term studies and monitoring will serve to document existing baseline conditions and analyze how park natural resources respond to the protection provided.