Distinguished World Lake Conference Participants,

After careful consideration and prioritizing the health and safety of attendees in view of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the 18th World Lake Conference Organizing Committee has made the difficult decision to postpone the Conference originally scheduled to be held in the City of Guanajuato, Mexico, during November 9th to 14th, 2020. The anticipated new conference date will be November, 2021, with the specific date to be confirmed. Further, a virtual conference event is being anticipated for November 9th, 2020 (Central Mexico time), with details to be provided at a later date.

The Organizing Committee also wishes to let current conference participants know the abstracts already sent will be honored. Further, in view of the conference postponement, the Organizing Committee will continue to accept abstracts and requests for Special Sessions and workshops through May 31, 2021.

We appreciate your kind understanding and support as we navigate the current difficult situation confronting us on a global scale. In the meantime, the threats facing lakes, reservoirs and wetlands continue to increase round the world, seriously affecting their sustainable use, as well as their wide range of ecosystem services crucial for human health and economic livelihoods. In fact, this postponement can be viewed as an indispensable opportunity for us to pursue the emergent scientific and management challenges awaiting us in this new era. Accordingly, please continue to monitor the website www.worldlakeconference.ugto.mx for updates and upcoming dates.

Sincerely
18th World Lake Conference Organizing Committee
University of Guanajuato