Project part-financed by the European Union (European Regional Development Fund)

The Interreg IVB North Sea Region Programme


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The authors are solely responsible for the content of this report. Material included herein does not represent the opinion of the European Community, and the European Community is not responsible for any use that might be made of it.
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Analysis of the TIDE Estuarine Conflict Matrices

Table of content

Authors:

by N.D. Cutts & K.L. Hemingway



2b. Research Aims

One of the main aims of TIDE has been to develop a holistic management planning framework for estuaries using a multi-manager sectoral framework. However, the intention was to provide assistance where possible to the operation of existing frameworks and organisations, developing an inclusive management system involving the expertise and understanding of a range of stakeholder groups.

Effectively, TIDE was looking to assist in the development of a holistic management planning framework for estuaries building on existing structures and using a multi-manager sectoral framework.

Some research questions considered to be of relevance to estuarine management and integration include:
  • What should be legitimate management priorities for estuaries and how we can better integrate these in Natura 2000 estuaries?
  • Where are the main areas of spatial and sectoral ‘conflict’ and what methods can we employ to address these (e.g. which plans work)?
  • How do we integrate traditional planning and assessment structures with developing ecosystem services requirements?
In order to address the above, it is necessary to understand:
  • the management issues in estuaries (in this project the four TIDE estuaries);
  • the methods used to deliver the management;
  • the basis that management is delivered;
  • the efficacy of the management tools;
  • the best tools/plans available to meet these needs;
  • gaps in management.
In addressing these questions, a conflict matrix approach was identified as of value in addition to a review of the body of estuarine system legislation and organisational remit for management for the four TIDE estuaries. Further analysis has also been undertaken in relation to the content and efficacy of estuarine plans derived from this review, using a Strength, Weakness, Opportunity, Threat (SWOT) approach. This strand of the analysis is reported in Boyes et al., 2013, but with outcomes were applicable integrated into the results of the conflict matrix analysis and conclusions later in this report.


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2a. General 2c. Conflict Matrices

Important to know

Reports / Measures / Tools

Report: Zonation of the TIDE estuaries (Functioning)
Report: Ecosystem Service Assessment of TIDE Estuaries (Functioning)
Report: Legislative Drivers & Sectoral Plan Review of TIDE Estuaries (Governance)


Management issues

How can management actions be prioritised based on conflict assessment outcomes?
How can multiple estuarine resource use be managed in an integrated way within the existing planning system?
How can the Ecosystem Services Approach be used to support management decisions?
How do TIDE estuaries deal with management problems?
How does the societal demand for ecosystem services vary along the estuary gradient?
What are the key areas of conflicts or synergies in TIDE estuaries?
What tool is available to help manage multiple users of a resource in an integrated way (i.e. achieving more holistic management)?
What tools are useful for involving local communities and stakeholders?
Which aspects do I have to take into account in order to make a measure a success?
Which synergistic effects and conflicts can be expected by planning and implementing a certain measure?


Keywords

Conflict matrix - used throughout the reportEcosystem services approachEstuary / estuarinePolyhaline / mesohaline etc.