PATUXENT RIVER CONFERENCE

The Patuxent River Conference (PAXCON) is the premier forum uniting scientists, environmental educators, natural resource managers, and anyone passionate about the health and future of the Patuxent River. To know and understand the Patuxent River is to take one more step towards its protection. The 2024 Patuxent River Conference is centered around the theme of water quality, with a focus on issues and solutions. Join us as experts, thought leaders, and passionate individuals converge to share their insights, ideas, and stories. This event promises a dynamic lineup of presenters. Attendees can interact with presenters, exchange ideas, and connect with participants who share a common goal: a cleaner Patuxent Watershed.

Registration:

Registration fee includes full access to the conference sessions, coffee, refreshments, and lunch.

Click to Register

By January 7: $35 *Early bird discount
January 8 or later: $55

Location:

Patuxent Research Refuge
National Wildlife Visitor Center
10901 Scarlet Tanager Loop,
Laurel, Maryland 20708

*Parking may be limited, please carpool if possible

Draft Schedule

9:00am Doors Open (Registration/Coffee)
9:30am Conference Welcome/ Keynote Speaker
10:30am   Morning Breakout Session IA: Science and Research
Morning Breakout Session IB: Activism/ Citizen Participation
11:30am Moderated Session Discussion/Questions
12:00pm   Lunch/ Poster Exhibit
1:00pm   Afternoon Breakout Session IIA: Policy and Legislation
Afternoon Breakout Session IIB: Communication, Engagement and Education
2:00pm Moderated Session Discussion/ Questions
2:30pm Panel (theme T.B.A.)
3:30pm End of Conference

Become a Conference Speaker or Present a Poster:

The 2024 Patuxent River Conference, scheduled for February 1, 2024, is centered around the theme of water quality, with a focus on issues and solutions. We are seeking presenters to share their expertise, research, and stories around this theme. With this in mind, we will be receiving abstracts for presentations and posters for any of the four conference pillars below.

Abstract Submission Deadline:
Friday December 8th, 2023

Please note that:
- Abstracts are limited to 150 words.
- All formats welcome for posters.
- Oral presentations can be: Standard (15 minutes); Short (10 minutes); Lightning (5 minutes)

Submit a Conference Session or Poster Proposal

Conference Pillars:

Activism/ Citizen Participation

Talks that highlight the power of grassroots efforts and individual engagement in preserving and enhancing water quality. Discover inspiring stories of local communities taking action to safeguard this vital resource.

Science and Research

Delve into the scientific realm, where research and innovative technologies are presented. Experts will discuss water quality assessment, conservation, and glimpse into the future of sustainable water management.

Policy and Legislation

Gain an understanding of the critical role policy and legislation play in shaping water quality standards and regulations. Experts will shed light on successful initiatives and advocate for the importance of effective governance to ensure safe and clean water for all.

Community, Engagement & Education

Explore the art of conveying complex water quality issues to the masses. Experts in communication, media, and education will share strategies for raising awareness, fostering public engagement, and promoting informed decision-making.

Thank You to Our Current & Previous Conference Partners & Sponsors!

The financial, materials, and in-kind staff support from these conference sponsors & partners are vital in making the conference a success. Sponsorship of PAXCON is not an endorsement of any company, service or product by the Steering Committee, its members or their represented organizations.