The ecological linkages between Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), including migratory patterns and life history stages of various species, suggest the need for improved collaboration in the establishment and management of MPAs. Although there are many marine conservation efforts throughout North America, they generally work independently of each other. A system of MPA networks—both human and ecological—will provide better protection for marine biodiversity than can be achieved by managing MPAs in isolation. The North American Marine Protected Areas Network—coordinated by the Commission for Environmental Cooperation (CEC) of North America, in collaboration with the North American Marine Working Group of IUCN/World Commission on Protected Areas—aims to enhance and strengthen the conservation of marine biodiversity in critical marine habitats throughout North America by creating functional linkages and information exchanges among existing and planned marine protected areas.
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