Topic outline

  • Conference Description and Agenda

    Purpose of the Conference:

    The purpose of the conference is to facilitate knowledge transfer among scientists, regulators, and practitioners involved in aquatic resource restoration work in a scientifically sound manner using an evidence-based approach in recognition of modern constraints that results in the restoration of resilient aquatic resources.


    Goals of the Conference

    The goal of the conference is to elevate participants’ understanding of the use of an evidence-based approach to restoration on a systems basis. To provide a forum to facilitate the linkage of academic, government, and private restoration efforts and the overall advancement of restoration science. 


    2-Day Conference Cost is $275 per person. Cost covers lunch each day.

  • Registration

    To register complete these steps below:

    1. Complete Online Registration Form
    2. Mail completed check for registration fee to PA DEP A DEP, Division of Wetlands Encroachment and Training, ATTN 2026 Restoration Conference, 400 Market Street, 2nd Floor, Harrisburg, PA 17101. 
      • Due to process and account limitations, no online payment option is available, all  registration fees must be paid via check.
    3. The Check must be fill out and submitted exactly as follows:

      • The amount shall be the amount of $275 per attendee. Note: multiple attendees can be paid with one check, just ensure to include a cover letter stating who   this is for and pending registration e-mails with the check.

      • Check must be made payable to "National Fish and Wildlife Foundation"
      • Memo Line Must say "PA ILF-2026 Conference-[ATTENDEE NAME]" 
      • Check must be accompanied by statement of who payment is for, or their information must be on the check memo line.
      • Mail check and information on who is attending to PA DEP, Division of Wetlands Encroachment and Training, ATTN 2026 Restoration Conference, 400 Market Street, 2nd Floor, Harrisburg, PA 17101
    ONLILNE REGISTRATION FORM MUST BE RECEIVED NO LATER THAN January 16, 2026 & Registration Payments are due February 2, 2026.

    • You will receive registration confirmation after proper registration payment is received
    • Conference fees are non-refundable but may be transferred to another individual.
    • FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS MAY RESULT IN DELAY OR PREVENT YOUR REGISTRATION PAYMENT FROM BEING PROCESSED.


    • Lodging

      A block of rooms has been reserved for this conference at The Penn Stater Hotel and Conference Center.
      Individual attendees are responsible for scheduling and reserving their own rooms.

      To reserve a room either contact Central Reservations by calling 1-814-863-5000 and reference the group code (see below) or by going to their website at https://thepennstaterhotel.com. 

      Room Rates using this room block
      Government: *$124/night  -  Group Code GOVT26A

      *Guestroom rate is tentative and will be determined when 2026 per diem rates are released by the Government

      Non-Government: $139/night  -  Group Code DEP26A


      PA DEP cannot guarantee room availability. The discounted group rate will be offered through February 2, 2026, or until the block is filled, whichever comes first. Please note that the PA DEP room block often fills well before the deadline, at which point you will be competing with other guests for rooms.

      For those reserving before the deadline, rooms at the group rate may also be available up to three days before and three days after the conference, to accommodate extended stays or vacation plans.

    • Questions


      If you have questions on the conference, please reach out to DEP's Bureau of Waterways Engineering and Wetlands, Division of Wetlands, Encroachments, and Training at ra-epbweweperdwet105@pa.gov. 

      • Recomended Prerequsite Online Trainings

        Attendees are strongly encouraged to take the following online trainings prior to the conference.

      • Restoration Literature Readings


        COMING SOON

        • Presentations & Handouts


          Coming Soon  --  --  --  Check back here prior to the conference as updated materials may be available. Presentations may also be posted here after the conference.

          • Keynote Speakers