Achieving the optimal balance between conservation
and use of the MMNR is one of the most difficult challenges facing
managers of the Reserve. In particular, in a relatively small and
intensively used protected area like the MMNR (see Zonation &
Visitor Use Scheme), it is vital that visitor use and associated
tourism developments are carefully regulated so that they do not
undermine the area’s environmental and aesthetic qualities
and exceptional wildlife values, which are the reasons that
tourists visit the area. This programme’s management actions
to improve the standing of the MMNR as a world-class tourism
destination must, therefore, take heed of the direct link between
the quality of the tourism product and the Reserve’s
exceptional wildlife and wilderness values, and be designed to
minimise the negative impacts of tourism on the area’s
ecology and environment.
