Antarctic Specially Managed Area (ASMA)
Antarctic Specially Managed Areas (ASMA) are intended to facilitate cooperation between nations operating in close proximity to each other, with a view to minimising environmental impacts. ASMAs may contain zones where various restrictions might apply. Activities within ASMAs are governed by a code of conduct.
The McMurdo Dry Valleys were designated as an ASMA in 2004. Antarctica New Zealand works closely with our Ross Sea partners through an established Dry Valleys ASMA Management Group to keep the Dry Valleys ASMA management plan relevant and up to date.
All visits to ASMAs must be recorded and reported to allow end of season reporting to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and to the other Antarctic Treaty Parties.
Additional information and guidance material below:
McMurdo Dry Valleys Website
Information on the McMurdo Dry Valleys ASMA can be found by clicking here.
Antarctic Protected Area Database
Information on other ASMAs in Antarctica can be found by clicking here.