The 11th World Conference on Ecological Restoration (SER2025) will be held in person on 30 September – 4 October 2025 in Denver, Colorado, United States. SER’s World Conference is an exciting and inspiring biennial gathering of global experts in restoration, making SER2025 the premier venue for those interested in being active members of the global restoration community.
EVENT LOGISTICS
VENUE
Hyatt Regency Denver at the Colorado Convention Center, 650 15th Street, Denver, CO 80202, United States
Directions
Map of the Hyatt Regency Denver at Colorado Convention Center
ONSITE CHECK-IN
The Registration desk will be located in the lobby of the Hyatt Regency Hotel on Tuesday, 30 September. Please pick up your name badge upon arrival from one of our friendly volunteers. From Wednesday, October 1st, the registration desk will be located on the 3rd level of the Hyatt Regency Hotel. Name badges must be worn at all times while at the conference.
REGISTRATION DESK HOURS
Tuesday, 30 September: 1:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Wednesday, 1 October: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Thursday, 2 October: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Friday, 3 October: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday, 4 October: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM
PROGRAM
The final conference program is available on the conference Web-based Guide and the SER2025 Website.
MEALS
Coffee breaks will be served in Centennial Ballroom FGH, Level 3; lunches are available in Centennial Ballroom Foyer, Level 3.
If you have indicated a food allergy or dietary requirement upon registration and require assistance choosing the right meal, please get in touch with one of the banquet staff members on-site.
GETTING THERE AND AROUND
Flying into Denver, you will land at the Denver International Airport (DEN), located approximately 27 miles northeast of downtown Denver. From the airport, there are several transportation options to reach the Hyatt Regency Denver at the Colorado Convention Center:
Denver Airport Rail
The A Line commuter train connects Denver International Airport (DEN) to Union Station in LODO (lower downtown). The Denver Airport Rail has six stops along the way and takes approximately 27 minutes at a cost of $10.50 each way. From Union Station, you can take a quick taxi or rideshare to the hotel (around 5-10 minutes).
Daily Schedule from Denver Union Station:
3:15 a.m. – 4:15 a.m. … Every 30 minutes
4:15 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. … Every 15 minutes
6:30 p.m. – 12:30 a.m. … Every 30 minutes
The last train departs Denver International Airport at 1:27 a.m.
Taxi
Metered taxicabs are available at Denver International Airport. Fares to downtown Denver typically range from $75 to $95, plus a $6.04 airport access fee per metered trip. Two common taxi providers in Denver include Union Taxi Cooperative and Metro Taxi &/or Taxi Fiesta.
Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
Rideshares can be accessed at Island 5 on either side of the terminal (East or West), on Level 5. Look for “Ride App Pickup” signage near the designated doors. For passengers needing extra assistance, pickups are available near Door 504, 506, 510 or 512 (West side) or Doors 505, 507, 511 or 513 (east side).
ARRIVAL IN THE U.S – CUSTOMS
All travelers entering the United States must complete customs and immigration procedures upon arrival. Please ensure you carry valid travel documents, including your passport, visa or ESTA (if applicable).For full entry guidelines, including the most up-to-date information on visa requirements, prohibited items, and traveler responsibilities, please refer to the official U.S. Customs and Border Protection website.
BIKE-FRIENDLY STREETS
Denver’s wide streets and extensive network of bike lanes make it easy and enjoyable to explore the city by bicycle. E-bike and scooters are available throughout downtown and can be ridden in bike lanes and on-street. E-bikes and scooters cannot be ridden on sidewalks.
PARKING
AT THE HYATT REGENCY DENVER:
Self-Parking:
$15.00 first 60 minutes, $21.00 1-2 hours, $27.00 2-3 hours, $33.00 3-4 hours, $39.00 4-5 hours, $47.00 5+/ overnight
Valet Parking:
$25.00 0-2 hours; $35.00 2-4 hours; $45.00 4-6 hours; $59.00 6+ hours/overnight. ** Prices Subject to Change.
Parking Instructions: The self-parking garage is located on Welton Street, between 14th and 15th. Valet parking is available at the front drive.
AT THE EMBASSY SUITES:
The Hotel offers valet parking only, subject to availability. Current prices are as follows, and subject to change without notice:
0-4 hours: $22.00
4-8 hours: $26.00
8+ or overnight: $58.00
TRAVEL/EVENT INSURANCE
We highly recommend you purchase travel insurance. In the event that your visa is denied, or you are not granted entry to attend, travel insurance will help ensure most of your expenses are covered. Most credit cards and health insurance policies have a travel insurance optional add-on. Reach out to yours to ensure your peace of mind.
WHAT TO BRING
DRESS CODE
Casual: Professional but comfortable.
Comfortable shoes: Expect a lot of walking/standing. Avoid brand-new shoes.
Layers: Meeting rooms can vary in temperature, bring a blazer, cardigan or light sweater.
WHAT TO PACK
Notebooks and Pens (for quick notes without relying on technology).
Business Cards (networking is key).
Reusable Water Bottle (stay hydrated!)
Headphones/Earbuds
Universal Power Adapter
Flash Drive
Conference Web-Based Guide
Information on how to access the conference web-based guide will be sent in a separate communication. Please make sure to create your profile and test your access in advance. Please contact us at ser2025@venuewest.com should you encounter any issues with your login, or if you have any questions.
Conference Events
WELCOME RECEPTION
Tuesday, 30 September : 19:00 – 21:00 | Centennial Ballroom FGH & Centennial Foyer
Kick off the Conference by joining us at the welcome reception, taking place in the Exhibit Hall (Centennial Ballroom FGH) and Centennial Foyer. This networking event is your chance to connect with fellow attendees, meet exhibitors, and engage with our valued sponsors. It’s the perfect opportunity to start building relationships, exchange ideas, and set the tone for an inspiring week ahead. Come ready to mingle and make meaningful connections!
FILM FESTIVAL
Thursday, 2 October 18:30 – 21:30 | Centennial Ballroom ABCDE
Sponsored by SWCA
Building on the success of our inaugural SER2023 Film Festival in Australia, we’re thrilled to bring back the SER Film Festival at SER2025. While scientific papers and technical reports document our work, film speaks a universal language that touches hearts and transforms minds. The SER Film Festival bridges the gap between technical expertise and public understanding, making the vital work of ecological restoration accessible to all.
The 2025 Film Festival received 118 total submissions across four categories, with representation from 35 countries. Eight films will be featured at the SER2025 Film Festival in Denver, Colorado, on Thursday, 2 October 2025. Finalists will be announced on the night with the winners announced at the end of the festival.
Prizes will be presented for each of the four categories, with the winner of each category receiving $1000, and each runner up receiving $250. See below for information on the finalists for each Film Festival category. Join us in celebrating the power of visual storytelling to inspire, educate, and accelerate ecological restoration worldwide.
SHARING CIRCLES
Sharing Circles offer participants a safe and supportive space to speak from one’s heart and listen to others, thereby fostering reflection and connection beyond typical conference sessions. Rooted in Indigenous practices of open dialogue and collaborative problem-solving, Sharing Circles invite participants to express their thoughts and emotions freely. By listening to others’ stories and sharing their own, participants can explore the impact of diverse topics on personal and collective levels. Whether you are new to Sharing Circles, or have participated in the past, you are welcome to join at any time and come as you are. Learn more about Sharing Circles by downloading our guide.
| Day | Time | Topic |
| Wed, 1 Oct | 10:30 – 12:30 14:00 – 16:00 | Knowledge sharing across international lands and waters Engaging and supporting youth in restoration |
| Thurs, 2 Oct | 10:30 – 12:30 14:00 – 16:00 | The role of women in restoration People and Nature: Interconnections of health and wellbeing |
| Fri, 3 Oct | 10:30 – 12:30 14:00 – 16:00 | Advancing respectful two-way learning Weaving Indigenous practices into restoration |
| Sat, 4 Oct | 10:30 – 12:30 14:00 – 16:00 | Reciprocity Social contract, ground rules, and expectations |
JAM CIRCLES
Jam Circles are informal musical gatherings where participants co-create music, share instruments, and connect through spontaneous collaboration in a relaxed, welcoming environment. At SER2025, we invite musicians and music fans to join Jam Circles Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday afternoon of the conference from 4:30–6:00 PM. These sessions celebrate cultural sharing and bring together music makers and enthusiasts from around the world. Group play-alongs will be at the heart of these gatherings, and participants are encouraged to prepare musical pieces they’d like to share. If you’d like to join, bring your instrument(s). We’ll also have a few on hand for shared use.
| Day | Time |
| Wed, 1 Oct | 16:30 – 18:00 |
| Thurs, 2 Oct | 16:30 – 18:00 |
| Fri, 3 Oct | 16:30 – 18:00 |
We look forward to making music together!
EXHIBIT HALL HOURS
Tuesday, 30 September: 19:00 – 21:00
Wednesday, 1 October: 10:00 – 16:30
Thursday, 2 October: 10:00 – 16:30
Friday, 3 October: 10:00 – 16:30
Saturday, 4 October: 10:00 – 16:30
SPEAKER READY ROOM HOURS
Tuesday, 30 September: 14:00 – 18:00
Wednesday, 1 October: 07:00 – 18:00
Thursday, 2 October: 07:00 – 18:00
Friday, 3 October: 07:00 – 18:00
Saturday, 4 October: 07:00 – 14:00
Practical Information
HIGH-ALTITUDE AND WEATHER TIPS
Denver really is a Mile High, but most people don’t even notice the altitude difference. The air is just thinner and drier. It’s best to follow these tips to stay happy and healthy.
In late September and early October, Denver typically experiences mild fall weather with daytime temperatures ranging from 60 – 75oF (15 – 24oC). However, conditions can vary, mornings and evenings may be cooler, and there is a possibility of light rain or early-season snow.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water before and during your visit to help your body adjust.
- Pace your alcohol Intake: Golf balls go ten percent farther…and so do cocktails. Cheers in moderation!
- Eat potassium-rich foods: Bananas, avocados, and leafy greens help balance electrolytes.
- Watch your physical activity: Even seasoned athletes feel the difference here. If you are active, consider easing into your routine.
- Pack for sun: The sky really is bluer in Colorado. But there’s 25 percent less protection from the sun. Sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and SPF lip balm are essentials.
- Dress in layers: Denver days can be sunny and warm, but mornings and evenings are often cool.
WI-FI NETWORK DETAILS
WI-FI Name: SER2025
Password: UNCCDSER202
EMERGENCY SERVICES
The general emergency number in the U.S for police, fire or medical assistance is 911.
Emergency Response
For First Aid response please notify the Security department immediately by dialing 55 from a room phone or interrupting the automated message by say either “Security” or “Emergency”. The hotel staff has responders trained in 1st Aid/CPR and the hotel is equipped with 4 AEDs around the property. We request that serious emergencies also come through the hotel Security team prior to calling 911. We do have a large property and security’s knowledge of, and involvement in, the emergency will help expediate outside first responders to the location of your incident.
Emergency Evacuation Plan
In the event it becomes necessary to evacuate the hotel:
Notification: There will be a public address announcement through the hotel’s PA system that states the building emergency (e.g. fire condition or explosion) and will tell you what to do. Listen carefully.
What To Do: Follow the instructions of hotel staff and proceed to the nearest emergency exit/stairwell. Follow the evacuation route out of the building to a designated assembly area. The staff member will direct you to the nearest assembly area.
Where To Go: At the assembly area please inform a hotel staff member of your room number and whether or not you require any medical attention.
How You Can Help: Assist injured persons to receive medical attention. Help account for persons you are traveling with. Stay calm and await further guidance.
SAFETY
Nearby Hospitals:
Denver Health, 777 Bannock St, 303.436.6000
Saint Joseph Hospital, 1375 E 19th Ave, 303-812-2000
Kindred Hospital Denver, 1920 N High St, 303-320-5871
Rose Medical, 4567 E 9th Ave, 303-320-2121
Walk-in/Non-Emergency Medical Facility:
Denver Health Downtown Urgent Care, 1545 California St, 303-602-6500
Nearby Emergency Dental Facilities:
24 Hour Dentists, 1000 14th St. Suite 14, 720-305-4227
Emergency Dentistry, 305 Park Ave W. Unit 309, 720-784-0422
Pharmacies:
Walgreens, 801 16th St, Denver, CO 80202. 303.571.5314 (8:00 AM – 11:00 PM)
CVS Pharmacy, 750 16th St, Denver, CO 80202. 303-534-1182
CVS Pharmacy @ Target, 1600 California St, Ste 14, Denver, CO 80202
SAFETY TIPS
Denver is a welcoming, safe, and inclusive city. As with any large metropolitan area, staying aware and prepared is always smart:
- Avoid wearing your name badge outside of the event venue.
- When possible, walk with friends or other members of your group.
- Protect your personal belongings at all times.
- Keep your eyes up and not on your phone.
- Safety begins with awareness – staying mindful of your surroundings and being considerate of how we all share public spaces.
- If you see something, say something, and report a concern to your hotel or venue.
- If it’s an emergency, call 911.
PHOTOGRAPHY/SOCIAL MEDIA POLICIES
Please be advised that photographs will be taken at the conference for use on the SER2025 website and in the media, as well as future Society for Ecological Restoration (SER) marketing materials and other publications. By registering and attending the conference, you acknowledge that your photo may be taken and used by conference officials.
By registering for and attending the conference, delegates grant SER permission to use their likeness in photographs, videos, or other digital media for the purpose of advancing SER’s mission. All photos and recordings will become the property of SER and will not be returned. They may be edited, copied, exhibited, or published in print, online, or broadcast formats, and participants may be identified by name and/or title. Delegates understand that they will not have the opportunity to review or approve materials before distribution. By attending, delegates release SER and its affiliates from any claims or liabilities related to the use or distribution of these materials.
Technology & Communication
HASHTAGS FOR SOCIAL MEDIA
Join the conversation online! Use our official conference hashtag #SER2025 to share your insights, photos, and experiences throughout the event.
Please also tag our SER accounts at the following handles
- Linkedin: @Society for Ecological Restoration (SER)
- Instagram: @serestoration
- Facebook: Society For Ecological Restoration (SER)
- X (Twitter): @SERestoration
We can’t wait to see your posts!
LIVE STREAMING INFORMATION
The conference opening ceremony and plenary sessions will be live streamed to the public on the conference website at https://ser2025.org/ser2025-live-stream/
Local Area Information
LOCAL MAP
ENTERTAINMENT & SHOPPING DISTRICTS
- Dairy Block
- Denver Pavilions
- Larimer Square
- McGregor Square
- Writer Square
- Union Station
ATTRACTIONS
- American Museum of Western Art–The Anschutz Collection
- Center for Colorado Women’s History
- Denver Art Museum
- Denver Firefighters Museum
- Denver Police Museum
- Denver Selfie Museum
- Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park
- Museum of Contemporary Art Denver
- Museum of Illusions
- National Ballpark Museum
DOWNTOWN DENVER
16th Street Mall
Denver has one of the most walkable downtowns in the nation. But you can save on shoe leather by riding the free shuttle bus on the 16th Street Mall – it makes everything in downtown easy to reach and stops at every corner. Renowned architect I.M. Pei designed the gray and pink granite pathway to resemble the pattern of a diamondback rattlesnake. This area is home to some of the most popular places to visit in Denver, like Denver Union Station and the LoDo Historic District. You can easily spend a full day sightseeing at these downtown Denver attractions. After dark, horse-drawn carriages clatter up and down the mall.
Larimer Square
Victorian buildings house specialty boutiques and unique chef-driven restaurants with one-of-a-kind stores and distinctive fashion and exclusive offerings in this urban shopping and dining district.
Lower Downtown
(LoDo) Historic DistrictDenver’s happening historic district is filled with turn-of-the-century warehouses, now home to 90 brewpubs, sports bars, restaurants and rooftop cafes. While you’re in Lower Downtown (LoDo), stop by Rockmount Ranch Wear for a snap-button Western shirt at the store where they were invented; or sip a handcrafted beer at the Wynkoop Brewing Company, Denver’s first brewpub opened by former Denver Mayor and Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper.
Denver Union Station
Denver Union Station has undergone a massive restoration that transformed the landmark into a transportation, dining, shopping and entertainment hub, and hotel. The historic, Beaux-Arts 1914 train terminal is now a foodie destination, with a dozen restaurants and bars, from farm-to-table favorite Mercantile dining + provision to the Terminal Bar, situated in the station’s old ticket windows. A handful of local retailers includes a branch of the popular Tattered Cover Book Store.
RESTAURANTS
Margaritas Cocina Mexicana, 519 16th St. Mall (4-minute walk from the Convention Centre)
5280 Burger Bar, 16th Street Mall Pavilions (6-minute walk from the Convention Centre)
A5 Steakhouse, 1600 15th St. (15 minute walk from the Convention Centre)
Ajax Downtown, 1899 16th St.
Apple Blossom, 822 18th St.
Beckon, 2843 Larimer St.
Belles & Boots, 1930 Blake St.
BUSINESS CENTER AND PRINTING SERVICES
FedEx (Hyatt Regency Denver Lobby Level):
Monday – Friday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Sunday: Closed
Business Center (Hyatt Regency Lobby Level):
Open 24/7, Accessible with a Hyatt Regency Room Key
MONEY MATTERS
Visitors can exchange travelers’ cheques and foreign currency for U.S funds at banks, trust companies, credit unions, ATMs, and at airport and border crossing exchange booths. Major credit cards are widely accepted. The 8.81% Sales tax applies to most goods and services. Gratuities are rarely included in the price for many restaurants and tour operators. Tipping approximately 15-20% of the total bill before tax is customary, depending on the quality of service. Many restaurants may charge 15-18% gratuity for large group bookings (six or more guests).
Special Considerations
COVID-19 OR HEALTH REQUIREMENTS
The health and safety of our attendees is our top priority. We ask that you monitor your health before and during the conference. If you are feeling unwell, experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 or other contagious illnesses, or have recently been exposed, please refrain from attending in person. Thank you for helping us maintain a safe and healthy environment for everyone.
SPECIAL ASSISTANCE REQUESTS
All special assistant requests must be sent to ser2025@venuewest.com prior to the conference, so we can make the necessary arrangements.