Privacy Policy
International Shellfish Restoration Society
Last Updated: November 3, 2025
1. Introduction
The International Shellfish Restoration Society ("ISRS," "we," "us," or "our") is committed to protecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you use our website and services.
2. Information We Collect
2.1 Personal Information
We collect information you provide directly to us, including:
- Contact Information: Name, email address, phone number, mailing address
- Professional Information: Organization, position, research areas, bio, ORCID, LinkedIn
- Registration Information: Conference registration details, dietary restrictions, accessibility needs
- Emergency Contact: Emergency contact name, phone, email, and relationship
- Payment Information: Processed securely through Zeffy (we do not store credit card numbers)
- Travel Information: Flight details, hotel dates (optional, for travel coordination)
- Abstract Submissions: Research abstracts, co-author information, presentation preferences
2.2 Automatically Collected Information
- Usage Data: Pages viewed, time spent, navigation patterns
- Device Information: Browser type, operating system, IP address
- Cookies: We use Google Analytics to understand how visitors use our site
3. How We Use Your Information
We use your information to:
- Process membership and conference registrations
- Communicate about events, deadlines, and updates
- Facilitate networking through our travel buddy and roommate finder (opt-in only)
- Review and schedule abstract submissions
- Send our newsletter (opt-in only)
- Contact emergency contacts in case of emergency (with your authorization)
- Improve our website and services
- Comply with legal obligations
4. How We Share Your Information
4.1 We DO Share:
- Conference Attendee Directory: Name and organization (opt-in basis only)
- Travel Matching: Limited information for travel buddies/roommate matching (opt-in only)
- Abstract Publications: Your name and abstract in conference proceedings
- Service Providers: Payment processor (Zeffy), email service, hosting providers
- Legal Requirements: When required by law or to protect rights and safety
4.2 We DO NOT:
- Sell your personal information to third parties
- Share your email with marketers or spammers
- Disclose sensitive information without your consent
5. Your Rights and Choices
5.1 Access and Correction
You may access and update your personal information through your member dashboard or by contacting us.
5.2 Marketing Communications
You may opt out of marketing emails at any time using the unsubscribe link or by updating your preferences in your account.
5.3 Travel Matching
Participation in travel buddy and roommate matching is entirely optional. Your travel information is only visible to others if you choose to use these features.
5.4 Data Deletion
You may request deletion of your account and personal data by emailing us. Some information may be retained for legal or legitimate business purposes (e.g., transaction records).
5.5 GDPR Rights (EU Residents)
If you are in the European Union, you have additional rights under GDPR:
- Right to access your data
- Right to rectification
- Right to erasure ("right to be forgotten")
- Right to restrict processing
- Right to data portability
- Right to object to processing
6. Data Security
We implement reasonable security measures to protect your information, including:
- SSL encryption for data transmission
- Secure password-protected databases
- Regular security updates
- Limited employee access to personal data
However, no method of transmission over the Internet is 100% secure. We cannot guarantee absolute security.
7. Data Retention
We retain your information for as long as necessary to provide services and comply with legal obligations:
- Active Members: Duration of membership plus 7 years
- Conference Registrations: 7 years for financial records
- Abstract Submissions: Permanently for scientific record
- Marketing Data: Until you unsubscribe
8. Children's Privacy
Our services are not directed to children under 13. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13. If we learn we have collected such information, we will delete it promptly.
9. International Data Transfers
Your information may be transferred to and processed in the United States or other countries where our service providers operate. By using our services, you consent to such transfers.
10. Cookies and Tracking
We use cookies and similar tracking technologies:
- Essential Cookies: Required for website functionality
- Analytics Cookies: Google Analytics to understand usage (anonymized)
- Preference Cookies: Remember your settings and preferences
You can control cookies through your browser settings. Disabling cookies may limit website functionality.
11. Third-Party Links
Our website may contain links to third-party websites (e.g., Zeffy for payments, LinkedIn). We are not responsible for the privacy practices of these external sites. Please review their privacy policies.
12. Changes to This Privacy Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy periodically. We will notify you of material changes by posting the updated policy with a new "Last Updated" date. Your continued use of our services after changes constitutes acceptance.
13. Contact Us
Questions or concerns about this Privacy Policy? Contact us:
International Shellfish Restoration Society
Email: privacy@shellfish-society.org
Subject Line: "Privacy Policy Inquiry"