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The Northern Bismarck Sea marine assessment was conducted in New Ireland and Manus Provinces between August 13th to September 7th, 2006. In New Ireland the survey covered the Tigak Islands, New Hanover and Djaul Island, while in Manus the survey was conducted predominantly around the main island of Manus. The survey team was comprised of international and local scientists, conservationists and Papua New Guinea fisheries’ officers. The survey provided an assessment of the biodiversity and status of corals and reef fish in the Northern Bismarck Sea, with recommendations for their conservation and management.

The Objectives Of the Kimbe Bay MPA Network Are twofold: to conserve marine biodiversuty and natural resources of the bay in perpetuity, and to address local marine resource management needs, the scientific design of the Kimbe Bay MPA network is based largely on a scientific assessment of biodiversity Values, And Identifies 15 Areas Of interest that meet specific conservation goals. The Design process involved expert scientific advice, targeted research and monitoring, and an analytical design process(using marine reserve software MARXAN)

The Nature Conservancy is engaged in establishing a resilient network of Marine Protected Areas in Kimbe Bay, West New Britain Province, Papua New Guinea. This will require strong partnerships with local communities, sustainable industries, scientists, other non-government agencies, and government partners. Preliminary discussions with communities and partners indicate that there is good support for the network.