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International
Fish Passage Conference 2027
The Netherlands | Friesland, Leeuwarden
June 7–11, 2027
International conference on fish migration and restoring river connectivity worldwide
The Netherlands | Friesland, Leeuwarden
About the conference
The Fish Passage Conference serves as a platform for international collaboration, uniting specialists who are dedicated to advancing fish migration and the health of aquatic environments. The event gathers scientists, engineers, policymakers and land managers from around the globe, all working towards the shared goal of restoring fish migration routes and supporting thriving ecosystems.
Through the exchange of knowledge and practical solutions, delegates contribute to the development of effective strategies for overcoming barriers in rivers and waterways.
In 2027, the Netherlands will proudly host this international conference in the historic city of Leeuwarden, capital of Friesland province in the country’s northern region.
Why the Netherlands is hosting this edition
The Netherlands is internationally recognised for its expertise in water management and ecological restoration. For centuries, we have worked with water, developing solutions that balance safety, nature and spatial development.
The 2027 edition marks the first time since 2015 that the conference returns to Europe, making the Netherlands a fitting host for this international gathering.
In Friesland, these elements come together in a unique way, a natural setting for this international conference. At the Afsluitdijk, one of the largest flood protection dams in Western Europe, this is realised in a project unlike any other in the world.
Source – Merk Fryslân
Construction of the Fish Migration River, 2026
Fish Migration River
In Friesland, we are working on the Fish Migration River in the Afsluitdijk. This unique project restores the connection between the Wadden Sea and Lake IJssel (the IJsselmeer), allowing migratory fish to swim freely once again between saltwater and freshwater and the upstream Rhine basin.
The conference will take place during the same period as the opening of this project. A historic moment for fish, which highlights the core theme of this conference.
Save the key moments
ABSTRACT SUBMISSION:
From September 1st to October 31st
Registration opens:
4th of January 2027
Discover what makes this edition special
Part of a global conference series
The Fish Passage Conference is a leading international event that brings together experts
working on fish migration and river connectivity. Each edition takes place in a different
country, creating a global platform for sharing knowledge, research and practical solutions.
Update May 2026
This website will be further developed in the coming months. During this period, we are working on ensuring privacy, security and digital accessibility, in line with applicable laws and regulations. More information will be provided at a later stage.
STAY TUNED
Stay tuned for updates on the Fish Passage Conference 2027
More information about the program, speakers, and participation will follow in the coming months.
Partners
This conference is organized in collaboration with national and international partners.
