'Marxan with Zones' (called 'Marxan Z' for short) is a decision support tool developed by The Ecology Centre, University of Queensland. A number of institutions have played a key role in supporting the development of 'Marxan Z' software. We wish to acknowledge the funding received from Ecotrust, whose interest in this software development arose from the need to support the design of marine protected areas along California's coast as part of California's 'Marine Life Protection Act'. We also acknowledge funding received from the National Heritage Trust and the Applied Environment Decision Analysis centre.