About ISRS
The International Shellfish Restoration Society supports the global shellfish restoration community through collaboration, innovation, and knowledge exchange.
Who We Are
The International Shellfish Restoration Society (ISRS) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization (pending IRS approval) established in 2024 to support the global shellfish restoration community. We emerged from the International Conference on Shellfish Restoration (ICSR), which has convened the restoration community since its founding in 1996.
Mission
"To build community, facilitate communication, and promote innovation within the shellfish restoration community worldwide."
Vision
"A future where healthy shellfish ecosystems support resilient coasts, thriving marine life, and sustainable communities across the globe."
Our Core Values
ISRS operates guided by six foundational principles that shape our work and community:
Science-Based Approach
We apply rigorous research to inform restoration practices and decision-making.
Collaborative Partnerships
We believe in the power of working together across sectors, disciplines, and borders.
Inclusive Participation
We welcome diverse perspectives from scientists, practitioners, Indigenous communities, policymakers, and industry.
Innovation
We promote creative problem-solving and new restoration techniques and technologies.
Impact-Driven
We focus on measurable outcomes that benefit shellfish populations, ecosystems, and communities.
Sustainability
We champion restoration approaches that support long-term ecological health and resilience.
What We Do
Host ICSR Conference
We organize the biennial International Conference on Shellfish Restoration, bringing together 300+ participants from 20+ countries to share research, best practices, and new innovations.
Facilitate Networking
We connect restoration practitioners worldwide through year-round communication channels, working groups, and knowledge-sharing.
Support Regional Networks
We collaborate with regional restoration networks across North America, Europe, Asia, Australia, and beyond to advance local restoration initiatives.
Promote Knowledge Exchange
We facilitate the sharing of restoration techniques, research findings, and lessons learned across the global community.
Engage Diverse Stakeholders
We bring together researchers, managers, conservationists, Indigenous groups, industry partners, and policymakers for collaborative dialogue.
Advance Innovation
We support the development and dissemination of new restoration approaches, technologies, and strategies.
Our Community
ISRS brings together a diverse global community dedicated to shellfish restoration:
🔬 Research Scientists
Advancing restoration science and monitoring
👷 Restoration Practitioners
Implementing on-the-ground projects
🏛️ Resource Managers
Managing shellfish populations and habitats
🌊 Conservation Organizations
Protecting coastal ecosystems
🌏 Indigenous Communities
Stewarding traditional shellfish resources
🦪 Industry Partners
Promoting sustainable aquaculture
📋 Policymakers
Developing restoration-friendly policies
🎓 Students & Educators
Training the next generation
Strategic Partnerships
ISRS collaborates with leading organizations to amplify our impact:
Native Oyster Restoration Alliance (NORA)
Partnership focused on advancing oyster restoration across North America through shared resources, knowledge exchange, and coordinated initiatives.
Australasian Coastal Restoration Network
Collaboration to connect restoration practitioners across Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific region, sharing innovations in shellfish and coastal restoration.