CERF 2025 Frequently Asked Questions

Let Us Know If You Have More Questions

Do I have to be a CERF member to register/attend?

No, you don't have to be a member; however, CERF members receive a discounted registration rate. Plus you get a full year of CERF membership benefits! You can join or renew your membership at the same time as your registration all in one form.

What's included in registration for CERF 2025?

Conference registration includes access to most programs, including:

Keynote address
Plenary sessions
Concurrent oral sessions
Poster sessions
Welcome and Closing Receptions
Coffee Breaks
Student networking activities

Can I register multiple attendees at one time?

No. All members have personal user IDs and passwords so they must log in and register separately to get the member rate, and non-members are also identified by individual emails and must register separately. If you have information to register for multiple people, please make sure to log out and log back in as another user after each registration, otherwise, you will overwrite the prior registration.

My company cannot pay for my registration until the next quarter/fiscal year. Can I register now and ensure my space and pay later?

If you cannot pay for your registration now, you can select, "Invoice Me" on the payment page. Our registration system will send you auto-reminders about your open invoice. All payments must be received by Friday, 13 October 2025.

Can I pay for my main registration fee separately from the cost to attend field trips and/or the social event?

Yes! If your institution or agency will only cover part of your conference registration fee, you can provide two separate payment methods.

Here's how:

Sign up for all of your preferred events during registration.
Select to pay by invoice at the end of your registration. You will receive an itemized invoice listing all fees.
Multiple checks can be mailed to pay one invoice or multiple credit card payments can be accepted by contacting the CERF office at (206) 209-5262 between the hours of 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM PT.

Can I bring a guest to the evening receptions (Opening Reception, Poster Sessions, Closing Night Party, Field Trips, etc.)

Yes, attendees may purchase guest tickets for the evening receptions and field trips when they register for the event.

When does registration close?

Registration closes on Friday, 3 November, 2025. After that date, you must register and pay onsite in Portland. CERF will charge a $25 onsite processing fee.

I need to obtain a travel visa. How can I receive an official letter of invitation?

To request an Official Letter of Invitation, please email your full name, address, institution/affiliate name and email address to [email protected]. If you are making an oral or poster presentation, please include the title and presentation date/time for your abstract. Once processed, a signed letter will be emailed to you. If you need an original sent to you via post, please indicate so in your email request.

What is the Cancellation/Refund Policy?

All cancellation requests received on or before Friday, 13 October 2025, will be issued a refund less a $75 processing fee. No refunds will be given thereafter except in the event of extenuating circumstances, which the CERF office will identify on a case-by-case basis. Requests for registration cancellation must be submitted in writing via email to [email protected]. If you are not able to attend one or more sessions, CERF will not prorate or refund any part of your registration fee. Substitute attendees will be permitted. Substitution requests must be in writing via email to [email protected] no later than 7 days prior to the event's start.

What is the CERF Code of Conduct?

The Coastal & Estuarine Research Federation (“CERF”) is committed to providing safe and welcoming environments for all who participate in CERF events and activities, whether in person or virtual. CERF prohibits and will not tolerate any form of harassment, bullying, or discrimination. Together, we can ensure that CERF Events support free expression and the exchange of scientific ideas in environments that are positive and productive for all. To read the full Code, please visit the Code of Conduct web page.

Whom can I contact if I have additional questions?

Please visit our Contact Us page to learn more.