Call for Proposals: Coastal Restoration and Resilience through Nature-based Approaches
By: Suzanne Simon, Program Director, NEP Watershed Grants
Coasts and estuaries are the heart and soul of much of our nation, providing critical habitat functions and economic engines. Yet they are in the crosshairs more than ever due to multiple stressors, ranging from development and pollution to increasing storms and climate change. The restoration community continues to rise to the occasion with innovation, hope, and a lot of blood sweat, and tears.
This focus area will highlight the amazing projects and efforts underway around the country in order to share insights and effectives approaches. And let’s be honest, sometimes the aspects that went…unexpectedly, let’s say…often teach us the most, so the presentations and discussions will also embrace lessons learned. The intent is to bring together practitioners who are willing to share their knowledge so we, as a community, can build on each other’s successes to increase the scale, pace, and efficacy of restoration.
Of particular interest will be those approaches that work with natural features and processes to make restoration more durable and resilient. While the individual approaches may vary by region and specific site, the overall philosophy is to use more nature-based techniques with more frequency than hardened solutions. Projects may include, but are not limited to: living shorelines, shellfish reefs, beneficial use of dredge materials, incorporating large woody debris, and much more.
The 2026 Coastal & Estuarine Summit offers the chance for coastal resilience practitioners to bring their experience and expertise to an audience of over 1200. Join us in shaping the future of our coasts.
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:
- Creating and maintaining oyster reefs as part of coastal restoration projects
- Living Shorelines: Best Practices
- Community centered restoration practices
- And more!
Submit your proposal here: https://estuaries.org/2026-summit-call-for-proposals/
We are also seeking sponsors who want to highlight their leadership in coastal restoration and resilience — whether you’re looking to reach new customers, showcase innovations, or hire top talent. For sponsorship information, contact LSpeidell@estuaries.org.
Registration for the 2026 RAE Coastal & Estuarine Summit opens April 13.
