2026 Call for Presentations
PCSGA and NSA-PCS 80th Annual Shellfish Conference and Tradeshow
September 14 - 17 2026, Semiahmoo Resort in Blaine, WA
Join PCSGA and NSA-PCS at the longest continuously held, shellfish-focused industry conference anywhere. For eight decades, this gathering has been the heart of collaboration among shellfish professionals along the Pacific Coast. It’s at this conference that shellfish producers, researchers, regulators, students, and industry partners come together to share information that has shaped farming practices, advanced science, informed policy, and strengthened coastal communities.
We are seeking presentation titles and workshop ideas that reflect the depth, diversity, and innovation of the shellfish industry. The PCSGA–NSA Pacific Coast Conference welcomes voices from all sectors—farmers, scientists, economists, lawyers, chefs, educators, and advocates—offering practical insights, research findings, case studies, and bold ideas for the future.
The 2026 Conference Planning Committee proposes the following primary themes:
ECOSYSTEM SERVICES PROVIDED BY SHELLFISH FARMS
This category will highlight the ecological roles shellfish play in coastal environments, including their contributions to water quality, habitat complexity, and biodiversity. Talks may explore multitrophic interactions, food web dynamics, and how shellfish farms interact with surrounding species and ecosystems. Presenters are encouraged to share field studies, modeling efforts, or interdisciplinary approaches that assess and quantify the ecosystem services and broader ecological impacts of shellfish aquaculture.
INCREASED SUSTAINABILITY OF SHELLFISH GEAR
Topics will explore innovations that reduce environmental impact and improve the longevity or recyclability of aquaculture gear. Presentations may include advancements in gear tracking technologies, efforts to reduce gear loss, or material alternatives that are biodegradable or more durable. Speakers are encouraged to share research findings, on-farm trials, or policy approaches that support sustainable gear use and management.
SHELLFISH BREEDING FOR SUSTAINED PRODUCTION, SUSTAINABILITY, AND RESILIENCE
Topics in this category will focus on innovations and strategies in selective breeding that support long-term productivity and adaptability in shellfish aquaculture. Talks may cover topics such as genetic improvement for disease resistance, performance under changing environmental conditions, and maintaining genetic diversity. Presenters are encouraged to share research that connects breeding advancements to farm-level outcomes, industry needs, and the broader goal of building a resilient and sustainable shellfish sector.
PUBLIC HEALTH AND FOOD SAFETY
Topics in this category will focus on efforts to ensure the safety and quality of shellfish for consumers. Presentations may address topics such as pathogen detection, monitoring and management of harmful algal blooms, water quality standards, and advancements in testing or traceability. Speakers are encouraged to share research, regulatory updates, or industry practices that strengthen public confidence and protect both consumer health and the reputation of shellfish products.
SOCIAL LICENSE TO OPERATE
Topics in this category will explore strategies to build public trust, community support, and positive perceptions of shellfish farming. Talks may include efforts in community engagement, education and outreach, economics, transparency in operations, storytelling, and addressing concerns around environmental or aesthetic impacts. Presenters are encouraged to share case studies, communication tools, or collaborative initiatives that have helped improve understanding, reduce conflict, and strengthen the industry's social standing.
FISHERIES MANAGEMENT, RESTORATION, AND PROTECTION EFFORTS (SPECIES AND HABITAT)
Topics in this category will focus on challenges and new strategies relating to fisheries management, and sustainability. Talks may include innovative sampling methods, new information regarding fishery or restoration species, and advancements in research.
Presenters are encouraged to share field studies, modeling efforts, or interdisciplinary approaches.
ADDITIONAL RELEVANT THEMES AND TOPICS
(These cross multiple categories but are critical to shellfish growers and the industry)
Ocean Conditions: Ocean Chemistry, Acidification
Integrated Pest Management
Emerging Species and Markets
Product to Market – International trade, working with buyers, restaurants, etc. Business Basics – Anything and Everything that Keeps Your Business Operating Down on the Farm: Shellfish Growers' Trials, Tribulations, and Triumphs
Permitting and Regulatory Issues
As a shellfish conference, research about and restoration efforts for any species of shellfish is welcome. I.e. cockles, Dungeness crab, Green Crab, etc. is welcome; as is research relating to commercially cultivated species like oysters, mussels, clams, and geoduck, and shellfish species that could be commercially harvested such as pismo clams, scallops, and others. If you have an idea for a presentation or workshop, we encourage you to submit something and we will work with you to find the right spot.
We encourage speakers, especially students, to make their talks accessible to all attendees and clearly link science to real-world management and policy applications.
PRESENTATION OPPORTUNITIES
Standard Presentations – 15 minutes (12-minute talk + 3 minutes for Q&A) Present as part of a themed session and contribute to broader discussions within the shellfish community.
Workshops & Panel Discussions – 45-60 minutes Propose and lead an interactive session that dives deep into a shellfish-related topic. Past workshops have included hands-on activities, skill-building, expert panels, facilitated discussions, and collaborative problem-solving.
Lightning Talks – 3 minutes A fast-paced opportunity to introduce new technology, farm practices, emerging research, or marketing ideas. Lightning Talks often spark discussions, collaborations, and even full-fledged research projects or business ventures! Choose from the following categories: Technology Trends Farm Fable or Fumble Research Incubator (test out your idea and gauge interest)
TIMELINE
- May 29: Presentation Submission Form due including: title, brief description and speaker name(s)
- June 19: Notification of Acceptance
- June 26: Commitment to present
- July 10: Draft Agenda Released