International Conference on Shellfish Restoration
The premier global gathering for shellfish restoration science and practice since 1996
About ICSR
Since 1996, the International Conference on Shellfish Restoration has convened the global restoration community every two years. ICSR brings together 300+ participants from 20+ countries, creating unparalleled opportunities for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and innovation.
The conference features cutting-edge research presentations, interactive workshops, field visits, panel discussions, and networking events that advance the science and practice of shellfish restoration worldwide.
Who Attends ICSR
Research Scientists
Leading researchers presenting the latest findings in shellfish ecology, restoration techniques, and ecosystem services.
Restoration Practitioners
On-the-ground experts sharing lessons learned and innovative approaches from real-world projects.
Resource Managers
Government officials and natural resource managers developing restoration policies and programs.
Conservation Organizations
NGOs and nonprofits leading restoration initiatives across coastal ecosystems.
Indigenous Groups
Traditional knowledge holders and stewards of shellfish resources and coastal habitats.
Students
Graduate students and early-career researchers building the next generation of restoration expertise.
Conference Activities
📊 Research Presentations
Oral presentations and lightning talks showcasing the latest research on oyster population dynamics, habitat assessment, urban restoration, species interactions, and restoration monitoring.
🎓 Interactive Workshops
Hands-on sessions covering restoration techniques, monitoring protocols, data analysis, stakeholder engagement, and project planning.
🗺️ Field Trips
Site visits to active restoration projects, providing firsthand experience with local restoration approaches and challenges.
📋 Panel Discussions
Expert panels addressing policy, funding, partnerships, climate adaptation, and emerging restoration challenges.
🎯 Poster Sessions
Evening poster presentations allowing in-depth discussions of research and restoration projects.
🤝 Networking Events
Welcome receptions, banquets, and social activities fostering connections across the global community.
Conference History
ICSR has convened biannually since 1996, spanning four continents
and bringing together thousands of restoration professionals over nearly three decades.
2024 - Jekyll Island, Georgia, USA
300+ attendees | 150+ presentations | 23 countries
Record-breaking attendance with presentations covering novel restoration techniques, climate adaptation, and ecosystem services valuation.
2022 - Virtual Conference
Global pandemic adaptation enabled worldwide participation with international speakers across multiple time zones.
2018 - Adelaide, Australia
First ICSR in the Southern Hemisphere, featuring unique perspectives on temperate and subtropical shellfish restoration.
2016 - Annapolis, Maryland, USA
Focus on Chesapeake Bay restoration efforts and large-scale ecosystem recovery programs.
2014 - Charleston, South Carolina, USA
Emphasis on oyster reef restoration and living shorelines in the southeastern United States.
2012 - St. Augustine, Florida, USA
Showcased restoration in subtropical environments and addressed climate change impacts.
2010 - Williamsburg, Virginia, USA
Tenth conference milestone celebrating progress in restoration science and practice.
2007 - Texel, Netherlands
European conference highlighting North Sea restoration and international collaboration.
2005 - Brest, France
Focus on European oyster (Ostrea edulis) restoration and habitat restoration techniques.
2003 - Jekyll Island, Georgia, USA
Addressed emerging restoration challenges and innovative reef construction methods.
2001 - Baltimore, Maryland, USA
Emphasized urban restoration and the role of shellfish in improving water quality.
1999 - Cork, Ireland
First ICSR outside North America, expanding the conference's international reach.
1997 - Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, USA
Second conference building on the momentum of the inaugural gathering.
1996 - Williamsburg, Virginia, USA
Inaugural Conference - The beginning of a global movement to advance shellfish restoration science and practice.
ICSR 2024 Highlights
312
Attendees
23
Countries
150+
Presentations
Code of Conduct
ICSR is committed to providing a respectful, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all participants. We maintain a zero-tolerance policy for harassment and inappropriate behavior.
Our Expectations
- Treat all participants with respect and professionalism
- Welcome diverse perspectives and experiences
- Respect presenter rights - no unauthorized photography or recording of presentations
- Report any violations to conference organizers immediately
- Support a safe and inclusive environment for learning and networking
Reporting: Participants who experience or witness harassment should contact conference organizers at info@shellfish-society.org