Learn how Marine Spatial Planning brings together ecological data, stakeholder engagement, and zoning processes to create more equitable and adaptive ocean management.
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Marine Spatial Planning is more than drawing maps—it is a forward-looking decision-making process that balances ecological, economic, and social objectives across marine space. As ocean use intensifies and competing interests multiply, MSP has become one of the most important tools available to planners, policymakers, and marine managers.
This applied course provides a thorough introduction to Marine Spatial Planning as both a policy instrument and a practical management tool. Learners will explore the full MSP process—from initial data requirements and stakeholder engagement through to zoning decisions and conflict resolution in multi-use ocean environments. Special attention is given to Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), Indigenous-led planning, and the integration of Indigenous knowledge alongside Western science in shaping effective ocean governance.
Designed for early to mid-career professionals working or interested in ocean governance, planning, or management, this course supports learners in understanding how MSP connects ecological priorities, community values, and regulatory requirements into coherent, adaptive plans for ocean space.
Invest in your team’s growth with ECO Canada’s Pay for Performance program.
Pay only 30% of the course cost and get up to 70% reimbursed!
Limited-time program. Funding available while seats last.
Dans un esprit de respect, de réciprocité et de vérité, nous honorons et reconnaissons Moh’kinsstis, le territoire traditionnel du Traité 7 et les pratiques orales de la confédération des Pieds-Noirs : Siksika, Kainai, Piikani, ainsi que les nations Îyâxe Nakoda et Tsuut’ina. Nous reconnaissons que ce territoire abrite la Nation métisse de l’Alberta, la région 3 au sein de la patrie historique des Métis du Nord-Ouest. Enfin, nous reconnaissons toutes les nations qui vivent, travaillent et se divertissent sur ce territoire, et qui l’honorent et le célèbrent.
In the spirit of respect, reciprocity and truth, we honour and acknowledge Moh’kinsstis and the traditional Treaty 7 territory and oral practices of the Blackfoot confederacy: Siksika, Kainai, Piikani, as well as the Îyâxe Nakoda and Tsuut’ina nations. We acknowledge that this territory is home to the Métis Nation of Alberta, Region 3, within the historical Northwest Métis homeland. Finally, we recognize all Nations who live, work and play on this land and honour and celebrate this territory.