Discover. Share. Collaborate. Shape the Future of the Lagoon.

Indian River Lagoon Symposium 2027
February 18, 2027

J. Seward Johnson Education Center
Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute at Florida Atlantic University

The Indian River Lagoon Symposium (IRLS) is a collaborative, one-day gathering dedicated to advancing science, dialogue, and stewardship for one of Florida’s most important ecosystems. Since its founding in 2012 with the support of the Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute Foundation, the symposium has provided a vital forum for sharing the latest research and translating knowledge into strategies for the management and protection of the lagoon.

Each year, the symposium unites scientists, resource managers, educators, students, and members of the public with a shared purpose: to deepen understanding, foster collaboration, and strengthen the connection between scientific discovery and real-world action.

2027 Theme: Sentinels of the Lagoon: Species, Habitats, and Signals of Change

This year’s symposium will explore how species and habitats throughout the Indian River Lagoon can serve as sentinels of environmental change. Shifts in their abundance, distribution, condition, and function can reveal broader changes in ecosystem health and emerging challenges.

The theme Sentinels of the Lagoon: Species, Habitats, and Signals of Change will examine what these signals can tell us about the Lagoon today and what they may mean for its future. Participants will explore the species, habitats, and ecological indicators that help us understand where the Lagoon has been, where it is today, and where it may be headed.

Registration Information

Registration for the symposium, required for all participants, includes access to all sessions, coffee breaks, lunch, and end-of-the-day poster session/receptio n on Thursday, February 18, 2027.

Presenter Registration (Abstract Submission Required)

Presenter registration and abstract submission dates: October 1, 2026 - November 23, 2026

Rates

• Regular/Professional: $80
• Student – Graduate: $40
• Student – Undergraduate: $30
• Student – High School: $30

Registration Process

• Registration required prior to abstract submission.
• Choose Guest Checkout (do not create a new account).
• You may register up to 5 attendees at one time.
• Students: The full rate appears by default. Select your student status to display the discounted rate.
  

Student Rates

Student rates apply to individuals who are currently enrolled in an accredited high school, undergraduate or graduate program, and/or have graduated within the past year while actively seeking employment. Proof of status may be requested at check-in.

Abstract Submission

After you complete registration, you will receive a confirmation email from DonotReply@touchnet.fau.edu with the link to the abstract submission portal.

General Guidelines and Rules for Abstract Submission

1. Registration is required prior to abstract submittal.
2. All abstracts must be submitted online; submissions by email will not be accepted.
3. Abstracts should not exceed 150 words.
4. Each person may submit only one abstract as the main presenter.
5. Select three keywords from the dropdown menu.
6. Authors whose abstracts are accepted for presentation are expected to attend the symposium and deliver their presentation.

Abstracts must be submitted by November 23, 2026, at 5 p.m . and will be considered only if ALL presenting authors have completed registration. For abstract submission guidelines and updates, see: https://www.fau.edu/hboi/events/irl-symposium/.

For assistance, please contact irlsymposium@fau.edu.