Wednesday, July 9, 2008

Coral Reefers convene in Fort Lauderdale to study reefs around the world.


The 11th International Coral Reef Symposium is being held at the Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County (Florida) Convention Center, July 7-11, 2008. Convening every four years, the International Coral Reef Symposium (ICRS) provides the latest knowledge about coral reefs worldwide. Natural scientists, resource managers and users, conservationists, economists, and educators meet together to advance coral reef science, management, and conservation. The International Society for Reef Studies (ISRS), the largest society focused on coral reefs worldwide, officially sanctions ICRS meetings.


The Symposium’s goal is better understanding of coral reef ecosystems and consequently effective conservation and management strategies. The Symposium will promote the dissemination of knowledge about reef sustainability and resilience, particularly important to many nations who depend upon coral reefs for their economy and food supply. The U.S. and South Florida venue will also provide convenient access for experts and policymakers to mutually visit and study reef systems in the Atlantic, Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico, Meso-America, and Eastern Pacific. Over 2,500 attendees are expected from the U.S. and international marine science, management, and conservationist communities.