REGISTRATION REQUIRED
Registration deadline: August 6, 2026

Each attendee must complete a separate registration form.

Join researchers, practitioners, agencies, nonprofits, citizen scientists, students, and community partners at Walter L. Rice Education Building at VCU’s Rice Rivers Center for the 2nd Annual Virginia Freshwater Mussel Science Symposium.

This one-day event explores all aspects of freshwater mussel conservation, from science and genetics to restoration, outreach, and community engagement. It provides a space to share knowledge, strengthen partnerships, and showcase the growing momentum behind freshwater mussel conservation in Virginia and beyond.

Poster Session Submissions

Poster presentation opportunities are available for participants interested in sharing student research, field methods, data visualization, regional case studies, or emerging tools. Please indicate your interest and include your proposed topic on the registration form by July 30, 2026.

Selected presenters will be notified after the deadline with confirmation and additional details, including any materials or support needed for your display (e.g., electricity, easels, tables, or other setup requirements).

Food and Accommodations

Breakfast items and lunch will be provided. Please indicate any dietary restrictions on your registration form so we can plan accordingly.

On-site lodging is available at VCU’s Rice Rivers Center in the Inger Rice Lodge. Please indicate on your registration if you are interested in staying at the center on the night of Monday, August 10 at no cost.

View photos and learn more about the accommodations.

Tentative Agenda: Items are subject to change

9:00 AM: Welcome Remarks

9:10 AM: What Does the Future Hold for Freshwater Mussels?

10:00 AM: Virginia Fisheries & Aquatic Wildlife Center (VFAWC) Tour and Lunch

12:15 PM: Regional Planning Initiatives Across Virginia

12:40 PM: The Pamunkey Freshwater Mussel Alliance

1:10 PM: Where Are the Mussels? eDNA, Probable Habitat, and Fish Hosts Panel

2:20 PM: Ecosystem Services & Mussel Function

3:15 PM: Mussel Gardening Panel

3:45 PM: Tribal Involvement in Mussel Conservation

4:15 PM: Poster Session

5:00 PM: Closing Remarks and Adjournment

This project is supported by funding from the Chesapeake Watershed Investments for Landscape Defense (WILD) Grants Program, administered by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation.

We’re committed to making our events accessible to everyone. If you need any accommodations to participate, please reach out to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . We will do our best to meet your needs.

Your registration includes periodic email updates from CBF. You may unsubscribe at any time by clicking "Unsubscribe" at the bottom of any email you receive from us.