“The Commonwealth’s marine fisheries
agency recognizes that concepts for managing traditional and often parochial use of ocean resources by coastal
fisheries should be expanded to sustain
demand on environmental capacity.
This requires significant appreciation for
ecosystem‐based integrated multi‐use
management of our oceans.”

- Paul Diodati, Director, Massachusetts
Division of Marine Fisheries

The Problem

There is growing recognition around the world, nationally and here in the Commonwealth that intensifying commercial, industrial, recreational and other demands on our ocean ecosystems require a new comprehensive approach to ocean resource management that supports ecosystem health and economic vitality, balances current ocean uses, and considers future needs. Fragmented, sector-by-sector management approaches are not working.

 The Solution - Integrated Multi-Use Ocean Management

Integrated Multi-Use Ocean Management (IMUOM) addresses a full range of human uses across sectors, is supported by credible science, incorporates public and user-group input, is adaptable to changing needs, and ultimately, supports sustainable marine industries and resilient ecosystems.

Some Benefits of IMUOM include:

•  Fewer permitting conflicts
•  Reduced risk for marine investors
•  Support for long-term planning
•  Streamlined regulatory processes
•  Reduced need for crisis management by user groups
•  Resilient ecosystems and thriving marine industries

Our Near-term Goal

Massachusetts launched the first statewide, comprehensive ocean-use management plan in the nation on 12/31/2009 – in fulfillment of requirements of the MA Oceans Act.  The Mass Ocean Partnership’s primary near-term goal has been to support the efforts of the MA Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) to develop and implement the best first-generation, ocean-use management plan possible— one that fairly represents all interests, is based on the best available science and that may serve as a model for other states, regions and nations.

Our Ultimate Goal

The Massachusetts Ocean Partnership’s ultimate goal is to advance integrated multi-use ocean management for the purpose of ensuring healthy, resilient ocean ecosystems and thriving, sustainable marine dependent communities, industries and businesses. The Partnership will pursue this goal through implementation of the stakeholder convening, science integration and public outreach strategies outlined in our Five Year Strategic Plan.

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