PCSGA and NSA-PCS 79th Annual Shellfish Conference and Tradeshow September 8th – 11th, 2025 Vancouver, WA
Join us at the largest gathering of shellfish producers, students, and professionals on the Pacific Coast! The PCSGA and NSA-PCS conference provides ample opportunities to present a wide range of relevant shellfish topics to our extensive community. This shellfish industry is diverse—comprising farmers, regulators, scientists, lawyers, economists, chefs, and we welcome voices from all sectors to contribute their expertise and perspectives. For decades, this conference has been the nexus for shellfish farming, academic research, and policy.
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