Planning phase
Step 5: Establish measurable management goals
In this step you want to translate your assessment findings into clear and measurable aims for your management actions.
Your goal is to define SMART objectives that reflect the ecological, social, and economic priorities identified in your project area.
SMART!
Specific = clearly defined and focused:
WHAT?
Define exactly what you want to achieve and where. Be precise and avoid vague language.
Example: «Increase kelp cover in the northern zone«
Measurable = concrete, quantifiable terms:
HOW MUCH?
Express your objective in numbers or observable terms so you can track whether you are making progress.
Example: «Increase kelp cover by 30%«
Achievable = realistic and attainable:
IS IT POSSIBLE?
Check that your objective is realistic given your resources, capacity, and ecological conditions.
Example: «30% increase is feasible based on restoration trials in the area»
Relevant = meaningful to overarching goal:
DOES IT MATTER?
Make sure the objective contributes directly to your broader management goals and community priorities.
Example: «Kelp restoration supports fish nursery habitat and local fisheries»
Time-bound = tied to a clear timeline or deadline:
WHEN?
Set a clear deadline or timeframe so the objective has urgency and progress can be evaluated.
Example: «Achieve 30% increase in kelp cover by 2028«