Participatory activity and conflict mapping inside the maritime space of the Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park

This study maps conflicts and uses of local stakeholders in Cíes Ons and Sálvora archipelagos within the Atlantic Islands of Galicia Marine-Terrestrial National Park (AINP) in Northwest Spain. The current management plan designates 0.44% of the MPA as marine reserves. Key local stakeholders are
identified and interviewed through an interactive online mapping survey Seasketch, allowing participants to draw maps representing their activities. Simultaneously collecting their perspectives on marine conservation and socio-economic practices within the area through semi-structured interviews.
By integrating stakeholder uses with scientifically prioritised marine conservation areas. The final hotspot maps lead to the identification of suitable areas for stricter protection based on participant’s marine reserve proposal and the European Red List classification of vulnerable habitats. Conflict maps and social network analysis highlighted the areas of conflict or compatibility. These maps show overlapping and conflicting uses on the inshore shallow side of the AINP, while survey data captures participants’ perspectives on effective ecosystem-based management. Participants perspectives highlighted their concerns on the impacts of fisheries and lack of compliance but also shared alternatives so marine reserves such as temporary reserves. Inclusive participatory studies serve as a comprehensive approach that contributes to developing an ecosystem-based MPA management plan.