Beyond Challenger Deep: an in-depth study of the human dimensions and social outcomes of the Marianas Trench Marine National Monument
Date
2018
Authors
Wilson, Katie, author
Gruby, Rebecca, advisor
Harris, Peter, committee member
Richmond, Laurie, committee member
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Abstract
This thesis contains in-depth d+L168ocumentation of the human dimensions and social outcomes of the Marianas Trench Marine National Monument (MTMNM, est. 2009), a large marine protected area (LMPA) in the United States insular areas of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) and Territory of Guam. LMPAs (marine protected areas in excess of 100,000km2) are a nascent trend in marine conservation, with 80% of existing LMPAs being established as of 2010 or later. Currently, there is a paucity of empirical research on their human dimensions. This thesis presents a qualitative case study of the MTMNM – a relatively longer established LMPA – with a primary focus on the perceptions of key stakeholders engaged in designation, planning, and implementation processes. Results document the human dimensions of the MTMNM by outlining its key stakeholders, designation process, design, politics of support and opposition, and social outcomes. I focus in particular on social outcomes of the MTMNM, which I describe in thick, nuanced detail within 5 major themes: unfulfilled promises, mistrust and social division, territorial sovereignty, conservation legacy effects, benefits and hopes for the future. I argue that the delivery of social benefits and respect for territorial sovereignty are of paramount importance moving forward. As a whole, the contribution of this thesis is in demonstrating empirically how the 'people-centered' aspects of LMPAs are essential to ensuring the model's social-ecological success.