Prince Edward Island will host the 12 th International Conference on Shellfish Restoration from September 15 to 18, 2009. The conference brings together harvesters, researchers, resource managers and community leaders from around the world to exchange information on successful approaches to restoring shellfish populations and coastal ecosystems. Up to 200 delegates are expected to attend.
The conference is being sponsored by the Department of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Rural Development and Fisheries and Oceans Canada and co-hosted by the Prince Edward Island Shellfish Association.
“It is most fitting that this conference is taking place in Prince Edward Island. Both levels of government and industry have been involved in the restoration and enhancement of public oyster grounds for more than 35 years,” said Fisheries, Aquaculture and Rural Development Minister Neil LeClair. “Prince Edward Island has worked with many of the techniques utilized for shellfish restoration around the world. The efforts of the Prince Edward Island Shellfish Association to enhance the oyster fishery and restore habitat is a success story that will be highlighted at the conference.”
Mr. LeClair said that experts from around the world will be making presentations on the most recent research results and approaches to shellfish restoration. Topics to be covered include improving water quality, shellfish enhancement strategies, invasive species, controlling predators, aquaculture and food safety. He said the information presented at the conference will be invaluable for the Island shellfish industry and other stakeholders of coastal waters.
The conference is commonly held in South Carolina. The conference was last held outside the USA in 2007 when it was hosted by the Netherlands.
This year’s conference is timed to coincide with the Prince Edward Island International Shellfish Festival.
“This will provide opportunities for people from around the world to experience the taste and quality of our shellfish products, and to learn more about how these products are grown and harvested,” said Mr. LeClair.