This report was commissioned in September 2009 to provide advice on viability, one of the seven Marine Protected Area (MPA) network design principles. This research used existing literature to provide evidence on the viable area required to conserve habitats and species of conservation importance.

The findings are being used by Natural England and JNCC to inform the Ecological Network Guidance for the Marine Conservation Zone Project. The Ecological Network Guidance will guide stakeholders in identifying Marine Conservation Zones to contribute to the ecologically coherent MPA network. The report has been subjected to an international peer review exercise by Defra nominated marine scientists.

This report should be cited as:
HILL, J., PEARCE, B., GEORGIOU, L., PINNION, J., GALLYOT, J. 2010. Meeting the MPA Network Principle of Viability: Feature
specific recommendations for species and habitats of conservation importance. Natural England Commissioned Reports, Number 043.

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MESL's parent company, Gardline, have produced a series of short films highlighting the range of services provided by the Group.  MESL are featured in the Video Clip entitled "Gardline Marine Sciences Promo DVD".