Call for Proposals: AI, Satellites, and Smarter Monitoring: The Future of Coastal Science & Technology Is Now
By Daniel Hayden, President & CEO, Restore America’s Estuaries
Coastal restoration is entering a transformative era – shifting from limited, infrequent data to rich, continuous, multi‑source environmental intelligence. This shift fundamentally improves how we design, implement, and evaluate restoration projects.
Effective restoration requires well-trained professionals to use credible, trustworthy data using proven methodologies. As restoration becomes more data‑rich and technology-reliant, coastal resilience strategies become more targeted, cost‑effective, and impactful.
All these tools may feel exhilarating or overwhelming. However, success in restoration depends on understanding complex interactions across land, water, vegetation, and human activity. Integrated datasets reduce uncertainty and improve modeling, forecasting, and long‑term planning. These technologies allow professionals to detect shifts, stressors, or threats early—sometimes before they’re visible to the human eye — enabling true adaptive planning.
As advancements in science and technology continue to progress, so too must the conversations progress on the responsible and ethical usage of these technologies. Balancing the resources needed to achieve these results against the returns they provide requires a continuous dialogue from stakeholders throughout the coastal restoration field.
Join Us in Shaping the Future of Coastal Science & Technology
We invite you to help lead the national conversation at the 2026 RAE Coastal & Estuarine Summit. We are seeking proposals for sessions on topics such as:
- Latest scientific research and modeling
- Latest approaches to monitoring & evaluation, accurate data and best technology available
- Using drones and in situ sensor networks
- Leveraging artificial intelligence, machine learning and data science
- GIS and mapping technologies
- Novel approaches to improve monitoring and evaluation
- Use of new technology such as advancements in ground-based technology and satellite imaging that support science
- Demonstration and training on new tools and resources
- Responsible and ethical use of technology
Submit your proposal here: https://estuaries.org/2026-summit-call-for-proposals/
Sponsorship Showcases Your Leadership
Looking to get feedback on your tools or demonstrate how they work? The RAE Summit is the place to showcase your tools to agencies, researchers, and NGOs shaping the future of coastal resilience. As a sponsor you get:
- Access and exposure to agency decision-makers
- Opportunities to run demos
- A chance to pilot technologies with restoration organizations
- Branding as a leader in environmental technology
Registration for the 2026 RAE Coastal & Estuarine Summit opens April 13.
