Pastures, fences, tragedies and marine reserves

The literature on marine reserves has focused on biological effects and giv en little attention to the ways in which economic and governance dimensions determine the social viability of marine reserves. Here, I evaluate, in li ght of recent simulation model results, the bioeconomic rational for spatia l access restrictions to correct a tragedy-of-the-commons problem in open-a ccess fisheries. The analysis suggests that the most likely role for marine reserves is in management of complex, spatially differentiated, multispeci es fisheries. Yet, this setting provides some of the most difficult challen ges to effective governance of marine reserves. The success of marine reser ves in fisheries management will depend on a careful matching of the attrib utes of a marine ecosystem and governance structures to create incentives f or cooperation and efficiency. Recent experience in the designation of rese rves for the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary illustrates the importa nce of stakeholder involvement and governance.