Welcome Message
Dear Colleagues,
We are delighted to invite you to the "15th International Conference on Salt Lake Research (ICSLR'24)", scheduled to be held in the scenic city of Antalya, Türkiye, from November 4-8, 2024.
Since the first event, the ICSLR series has established itself as a milestone conference in saline lake research encompassing broader ecological, management and economic aspects. Over the years, the ICSLR conference has welcomed significant global researchers, scientists, and experts to delve into and share their latest insights on inland saline waters. To broaden the scope of the meeting we also invite researchers and managers interested in freshwater salinization.
There will be an immersive scientific program filled with plenary sessions, technical discussions, enlightening talks from invited speakers, and a diverse range of oral and poster presentations. The conference is an excellent platform for networking, and to provide meaningful interactions between young researchers, and highly-skilled experts.
Antalya and Türkiye, with their rich heritage in saline water landscapes and breathtaking beauty, also offer an excellent opportunity for salt lake researchers to connect, showcase their work, and strengthen ties with the academic community.
Your participation, insights, and contributions will undoubtedly enrich the conference, and we can not wait to welcome you to ICSLR'24. We appreciate your continued interest in our conference series and eagerly anticipate your presence.
We look forward to a shared journey of discovery at the International Conference on Salt Lake Research.
With warm regards,
The Organizing Committee,
ICSLR'24 Concept 
The ICSLR'24 conference is designed with the unique concept of 'One Roof and All Inclusive'. This approach aims to cultivate a unified community of salt lake researchers and foster deep intellectual engagement and networking opportunities.
By bringing everyone together under one roof, we ensure a worry-free and conducive environment that encourages interaction, collaboration, and exchange of ideas.
The main focus is on pioneering research, inspiring meaningful discussions, and strengthening our collective understanding and commitment to salt lake ecosystems.
We eagerly anticipate your valuable contributions to this collective endeavor.
Program - 5 Days
⚠️ IMPORTANT NOTICE ⚠️
The organizing committee reserves the right to make updates until the final version is released.
04 Nov
Arrivals & Registration
Airport Transfers and Hotel Check-ins
Registration
Opening Session
Chair: Meryem Beklioğlu
Meryem Beklioğlu
ICSLR'24, Welcome speech
Ahmet Yozgatlıgil
Rector of METU, Welcome speech
Wayne Wurtsbaugh & Egor Zadereev
ISSLR Welcome speech
Erik Jeppesen
Impact of water abstraction and global warming on water balance, salinity and lake ecosystems in arid and semi-arid regions with special focus on Türkiye lakes
Coffee Break
Session 2
Chair: Wayne Wurtsbaugh
Lynn de Freitas
Great Salt Lake’s Future is Our Future. Sustainability of the Ecosystem is Imperative.
Accuracy of Altimetry Data to Monitor Elevation and Storage Changes of Lake Urmia
Somayeh Sima
Scientific Response to Changes in Salt Lakes
Zheng MianPing
Modeling Chlorophyll-a Concentrations In Great Salt Lake (USA) At High Temporal Frequency With MODIS Satellite Imagery
Wayne A. Wurtsbaugh
Panel & Discussions
Panel Chairpersons:
Bonnie Baxter, Director, Great Salt Lake Institute, Westminster University, USA
Massoud Tajrishy, Sharif University of Technology, Iran
Panel: II
Solutions for Shrinking Saline Lakes
Ice Breaking Party
PLENARY SPEAKERS
Dr. Erik Jeppesen
"Impact of water abstraction and global warming on water balance, salinity and lake ecosystems in arid and semi-arid regions with special focus on Türkiye lakes"
Lynn de Freitas
"Great Salt Lake’s future is our future. Sustainability of the ecosystem is imperative"
Dr. Masoud Tajrishy
"Urmia Lake Restoration: from Challenges to Solutions"
Dr. Jianrong Huang
"Microbial carbon fixation and its influencing factors in Qinghai-Tibet Plateau saline lakes"
Dr. Xiaoxi Sun
"Salinity change induces distinct climate feedbacks of nitrogen removal in saline lakes"
Dr. Tamás Felföldi
"Microbes of soda lakes - From local phenomena to global data"
Discussion Panels
REGISTRATION FEES
Regular € 550.00
Student / Early Career Researchers € 375.00
Includes: Participation kit (badge, bag, and certificate of attendance), welcome reception, coffee breaks & lunches, access to the scientific sessions, book of abstracts (online), and ISSLR membership.
FULL PACKAGE FEES
Regular Package: € 900.00
Student / Early Career Researchers Package: € 675.00
Includes: everything from regular registration + 4 nights accommodation in a sharable room (all meals, all alcohol non-alcohol drinks, and everything during the stay).
Accompanying: € 425.00
Includes: Welcome reception, Coffee breaks & lunches, 4 nights accommodation in a sharable room (all meals, all alcohol non-alcohol drinks, and everything during the stay).
Register Now!
Important Notes:
- As the conference will be held under one roof, we highly recommend selecting a registration type includes accommodation and everything from start-to-finish.
- Upgrading your accommodation to a single room is available with additional payment.
- Early career researchers must be under the age of 28
If you require further assistance or have any questions, please don't hesitate to get in touch. You can email us directly at esat@arber.com.tr or use the "Contact the Organizer" form located at the bottom of this page. Just scroll down to find it. Your smooth registration process is our priority, and we're here to help.
Transportation
There is public transportation from the airport to the conference hotel such as taxis and 'dolmuş' (public shuttles).
However, we suggest you get the shuttle transfer to book a private 'Airport-Hotel-Airport' transfer.
You can book your private or shuttle transfer service through MeetingHand Online Registration System.
The planned shuttle transfer dates and times are as follows;
Transfer bookings should be reserved and paid at least 24 hours earlier to the pickup time.
* Airport - Hotel: €20,00 per person
03 Nov./ Sunday; 09:30, 12:30, 15:00, 19:30 or 21:30
04 Nov./ Monday; 12:00, 14:00, 15:00, 20:00 or 21:30
* Hotel - Airport: €20,00 per person
08 Nov./ Friday; 07:00 or 09:00
09 Nov./ Saturday; 09:00
* Private Transfer: €60,00 per 1-2 people
private date / time selection is available.
Please check "Before you fly, Easy Guide"
Instructions for Presenters
Oral Presentation:
- Familiarize yourself with the schedule: Check your presentation date and time.
- Your presentation should be in Microsoft PowerPoint format (.ppt or .pptx).
- Make sure images, visuals or videos are embedded in your PowerPoint file.
- Use standard fonts, sizes, and colors for clear viewing.
- Your presentation time is 15 (12+3) minutes, including Q&A. Ideally, use no more than 20 slides.
- Give your presentation to the technical staff in the meeting room 2 sessions before you present.
- Before your session starts, introduce yourself to the chairperson.
Poster Presentation:
- Posters should be portrait and 70x100 cm in size. Printing responsibility is yours.
- Use clear fonts and visuals so they can be seen from a distance.
- It's a good idea to include: conference banner, title, names and affiliations of authors, introduction, methods, results, conclusion, references, and acknowledgment.
- Stand by your poster during your assigned time. Posters not presented will be removed from the abstract book.
- Take down your poster after your session, as we can't store them safely.
Bill Williams Awards
ISSRL is proud to offer Bill Williams awards to highlight excellence in early career salt-lake scientists' contributions - both oral and poster formats considered.
Judging criteria focus on scientific merit, clearly communicating impact, and skilled delivery.
Winners receive: Certificate, $750 check and Research highlighted in ISSLR communications.
Submitt your abstract to showcase your research for a chance at prestigious recognition!
For more details click Young Scientist Awards
Conference Hotel
Paloma Foresta Resort Hotel
Paloma Foresta with Ultra Luxurious All-Inclusive concept and its 346 rooms within pine trees with its unmatched beach located where the Taurus Mountains embrace the Mediterranean and the texture offering serenity and calmness invites the guests to its relaxing and soothing world.
A number of rooms have been reserved as a run of the house (standard and garden rooms) for the conference participants with the concept of "under one roof". Your early registration and booking is appreciated for a better experience. You can always access your registration account to track and update your bookings and make your payments.
Registration fees include your accommodation
Excursions and Post-Conference Tours
Explore More, Learn More!
We understand that a conference isn't just about the presentations and discussions; it's also an opportunity to explore and unwind. That's why we're thrilled to offer a variety of mid-conference excursions and post-conference tours. Immerse yourself in local culture, history, and nature while also connecting with fellow attendees.
Post-Conference Daily Excursions
1# Demre St. Nicholas, Myra, and Kekova Daily Excursion / Friday, 08 Nov.
Embark on a captivating full-day tour of Demre, St. Nicholas Church, Myra, and Kekova, starting from the Paloma Foresta Hotel.
Begin your journey with a scenic drive to the town of Demre, known for its rich historical significance. Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of St. Nicholas Church, also known as the Church of Santa Claus. Explore the ancient walls and learn about the fascinating history and significance of this revered site.
Continue to Myra, an ancient Lycian city brimming with well-preserved ruins. Marvel at the impressive rock-cut tombs and be awed by the grandeur of the Roman theater. Allow yourself to be transported back in time as you wander through the remnants of this captivating ancient city.
Next, embark on a memorable boat trip to Kekova, a breathtaking region renowned for its underwater ruins and idyllic islands. Cruise along the azure waters and witness the partially submerged ruins of the sunken city of Simena. Absorb the serenity of the surroundings and capture unforgettable moments from the comfort of the boat.
Depending on weather conditions, you may have the opportunity to take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of Kekova and explore the mesmerizing underwater world.
As the day draws to a close, return to the Paloma Foresta Hotel, cherishing the memories of this unforgettable tour.
Fees: € 90,00
Tour Schedule Details:
- Departure from the Paloma Foresta Hotel: 08:00
- Return to the Paloma Foresta Hotel: 18:00
Additional Information:
- Please note that luggage storage will be available on the tour bus.
- Please note that entrance tickets to museums are not included, wearing sneakers (and your swimming clothes if you wish to swim) is recommended for your comfort, and the tour guide reserves the right to make changes to the itinerary if necessary.
2# Perge, Aspendos, and Antalya Sightseeing Daily Excursion / Friday, 08 Nov.
Embark on a full-day historical and cultural tour of Perge, Aspendos, and Antalya, starting from the Paloma Foresta Hotel.
Begin your journey by visiting the ancient city of Perge, renowned for its remarkably preserved ruins from the Hellenistic and Roman eras. Immerse yourself in the rich history as you explore the remnants of this ancient site.
Next, delve into the wonders of the ancient city of Aspendos, home to an extraordinary Roman theater considered one of the world's best-preserved. Marvel at the sheer magnificence of this architectural masterpiece that has withstood the test of time.
Continue your sightseeing adventure in Antalya, often referred to as the "Pearl of the Mediterranean." Discover the enchanting Old Town (Kaleici), characterized by its narrow streets, traditional houses, and remarkable landmarks. Take in the splendor of Hadrian's Gate, admire the elegance of the Clock Tower, and indulge in the beauty of the Antalya Marina.
Depending on timing and weather conditions, you'll have some free time to wander the vibrant streets of Old Antalya, shop for souvenirs, or unwind at a local café.
As the day comes to a close, return to the Paloma Foresta Hotel with cherished memories of the tour.
Fees: € 85,00
Tour Schedule Details:
- Departure from the Paloma Foresta Hotel: 08:00
- Drop-off at Airport (prior to the Old City sightseeing segment): 15:00
- Return to the Paloma Foresta Hotel: 19:00
Additional Information:
- Please note that luggage storage will be available on the tour bus.
- Please note that entrance tickets to museums are not included, wearing sneakers is recommended for your comfort, and the tour guide reserves the right to make changes to the itinerary if necessary.
Post-Conference Tours
3# Salda Lake, Pamukkale, and Ephesus Post Tour / 3 Days / Saturday, 09 Nov.
Day 1 – Antalya to Salda Lake and Pamukkale
Depart from Antalya at 7:30 am bound for Salda Lake. Upon arriving around 9:30 am, you'll have about an hour to freely explore and capture memories with photos. We then head to Pamukkale, arriving approximately at 1:00 pm. Here, lunch will be served. After lunch, immerse yourself in the wonders of Pamukkale, known as the Hierapolis Ancient City. This location is not just famous for its captivating geological formations but also its rich historical legacy, from the Hierapolis Ancient City to the expansive Necropolis, the Roman Bath, Domitian Gate, the bustling Main Street, and the mesmerizing Byzantine Gate and Calcium Terraces. If you fancy a swim in Pamukkale's ancient spring pool, do remember to bring your swimwear. However, this is optional and comes with an additional charge. As the day concludes, we'll conclude the day by departing to our hotel in Pamukkale for an overnight stay.
Day 2 – Ancient Ephesus and Virgin Mary House
After enjoying breakfast at 8:30 am, we'll then set forth on a 3-hour drive to the Ancient City of Ephesus. Dive deep into history as we traverse the ancient Greek city of Ephesus and later the tranquil House of Virgin Mary. Throughout the day, marvel at the Marble Street, The Odeon, Temple of Hadrian, Trajan’s Fountain, the expansive Great Theatre, Harbor Street, and the remarkable Celsus Library, among others. Post-lunch, we'll make our way to the House of Virgin Mary, a place wrapped in serenity, believed to be where she spent her concluding years. As dusk approaches, we'll head to Kusadası and check into our hotel for a restful night.
Day 3 – Şirince Village and Airport Transfer
Begin the day with a hearty breakfast, then check out from our Kusadası hotel at 9:00 am. By 10:00 am, we should be at Şirince Village, a scenic locale celebrated for its unique architectural charm and famed apple wine. Soak in the beauty of this hillside village before we make our way to İzmir Airport. Estimated arrival to İzmir Airport is around 15:30. The tour will ends at Antalya City center around 23:00.
Fees: € 495,00 (sharing a double room for 2 nights).
€ 100,00 (upgrade to a singl room for 2 nights).
Tour Package Includes:
- Comfortable transportation, parking and road tolls
- 2 Nights accommodation sharing a double room
- 2 Breakfast
- Professional English-speaking tour guide
Please note that:
- The itinerary is scheduled to enable you to fly directly from Izmir, making it a suitable destinantion for your return home. So, luggage storage is available on the tour bus.
- Entrance tickets to museums are not included
- Lunches, dinenrs and drinks during the meals are not included.
- Wearing sneakers is recommended for your comfort, and the tour guide reserves the right to make changes to the itinerary if necessary.
- The tour guide reserves the right to make changes to the itinerary if necessary.
4# Konya, Salt Lake, and Cappadocia Post Tour / 3 Days / Saturday, 09 Nov.
Day 1 – Konya and Salt Lake Exploration
Depart from Antalya at 7:30 am bound for Konya. We kick off our day with a visit to the Mevlana Museum, a tribute to Mevlana Jelaleddin Rumi, a leading figure in Islamic mysticism. Here, find yourself amidst artifacts that echo tales of dervishes and divine love. Post this insightful visit, we'll pause for lunch in Konya.
Post-lunch, we head to the captivating Salt Lake, which meets a significant portion of Turkey's salt demands. As you stroll its shores, you'll be greeted by its crystal-white allure, especially during summer when the lake mostly dries up. This lake serves as a prelude to the mesmerizing terrains of Cappadocia that await us. Once we've soaked in its beauty, we drive to our hotel in Cappadocia, where you can rest for the night.
Day 2 – Aerial Views and Wonders of Cappadocia
For those keen, the day can begin with an optional Hot Air Balloon Ride. Floating in the Cappadocian sky offers a unique perspective of its landscape.
By 09:00 am, our ground expedition begins. We'll explore:
- Derinkuyu Underground City: The world's largest underground settlement.
- The Pigeon Valley: Home to countless dovecotes carved into cliffs.
- Pashabagi Fairy-Chimneys Valley: A landscape dotted with stone mushrooms.
- Avanos: A historic town known for its pottery, established by the Hittites.
- Dervent Valley: Recognized for its pink rock formations, especially the seated stone camel.
- Urgup Fairy-Chimneys: Iconic formations known locally as the three sisters.
Day 3 – Delving Deeper into Cappadocia
Our exploration takes us to:
- Goreme Open Air Museum: Houses rock-cut churches and monasteries adorned with exquisite frescoes.
- Love Valley: We embark on an hour-long walk, surrounded by stunning rock formations and rock combs.
Once our tour concludes, we ensure a seamless transfer to Nevşehir airport. Estimated arrival to Nevşehir Airport is around 15:00. The tour will ends at Antalya City center around 23:30.
Fees: € 445,00 (sharing a double room for 2 nights).
€ 100,00 (upgrade to a singl room for 2 nights).
Tour Package Includes:
- Comfortable transportation, parking and road tolls
- 2 Nights accommodation sharing a double room
- 2 Breakfast and 2 dinners
- Professional English-speaking tour guide
Please note that:
- The itinerary is scheduled to enable you to fly directly from Nevşehir (drop at the Nevşehir Airport will be around 15:00), making it a suitable destinantion for your return home. So, luggage storage is available on the tour bus.
- Entrance tickets to museums are not included
- Lunches and drinks during the meals are not included.
- Wearing sneakers is recommended for your comfort, and the tour guide reserves the right to make changes to the itinerary if necessary.
- The tour guide reserves the right to make changes to the itinerary if necessary.
If you have any questions, don't hesitate to contact us using the "Contact the Organizer" form at the bottom of this page. We also appreciate your suggestions to schedule more options that fit your expectations.
Host City
Antalya
Antalya, the Turkish Riviera is the most stunning part of Türkiye's Mediterranean coast. It is typical of Türkiye, a thriving modern city, with a historic heart in the center of Kaleiçi within the old city walls. Antalya has a backdrop of stunning mountain scenery, and the city is set high on cliffs, with many of its grandest hotels overlooking the sea on the outskirts of the town.
The most popular Historic Sites of the Antalya Region:
Aspendos: Just 50 km east of Antalya, Aspendos was an important center of trade during Roman times. Today, the most impressive aspect of Aspendos is her stunning theatre, which was built in approx. 162 AD. It seats 15,000 and has been beautifully preserved. Each year it hosts the Aspendos Opera and Ballet Festival which takes place in June and July and gives you the opportunity to see performances of classics in a magnificent setting. The aqueduct, which supplied water to the city, is still relatively intact and is an impressive sight.
Perge: Just 18 km from Antalya, Perge was an important city in Pamphylia and was visited by St. Paul during his missionary journeys. Today, the city gate flanked by lofty towers, theatre and baths is of interest.
Phaselis: The three harbors of this Lycian port city were once major commercial centers. In the shelter of Mount Tahtalı, it is a popular stopping point for yachts, and its clear waters and sandy beaches are popular with sun-seekers. The remains are mostly Roman and include a theatre, baths, aqueducts, Hadrian's Gate, an agora, and an acropolis.
Demre: Also known as Kale, the ancient city of Myra, is primarily famous for its connection with St. Nicholas, who was bishop here in the 4th century. His church is the focus of the annual ceremony which takes place to commemorate him on or around his feast day of 6th December. It is well worth seeing the Roman theatre which remains here, overlooked by spectacular rock tombs, dating from the 4th century BC.
Travel
Antalya International Airport is one of the biggest Airports in Türkiye. Many Airlines have direct flights to Antalya from all over Europe, but you may also have a connected flight via Istanbul Airport to Antalya Airpot. In such case there are local airline flights from Istanbul to Antalya every day and they can provide cheap tickets (Pegasus, Anadolu Jet, Türk Hava Yolları (Turkish Airline).
Turkish Airlines www.thy.com
Pegasus Airlines www.flypgs.com
Anadolu Jet www.anadolujet.com
Antalya is an accessible destination with direct flights by many international airlines. Antalya International Airport's official website can also help you to discover other flight options.
https://www.antalya-airport.aero/passengers-visitors/flight-info/international-arrivals
Transportation
There is public transportation from the airport to the conference hotel such as taxis and 'dolmuş' (public shuttles).
However, we suggest you get the shuttle transfer to book a private 'Airport-Hotel-Airport' transfer. The Airport transfer company offers a hygienic transportation service that is compatible with the pandemic regulations.
You can book your private or shuttle transfer service through MeetingHand Online Registration System.
Visa
EU citizens can obtain multiple entry visas at the Turkish border gates,
For non-EU citizens please check https://www.evisa.gov.tr/en/ or contact a Turkish Consulate nearby.
Climate & Clothing
Antalya has a characteristic Mediterranean climate with hot and dry summers and mild and rainy winters. Around 300 days of the year are sunny. The sea temperature ranges between 15 °C (59 °F) during winter and 28 °C (82 °F) during summer. The air temperature can climb as high as 40 °C (104 °F) in July and August. However, the typical air temperature ranges between the low-to-mid 30 °C (86 °F). There are sea breezes and northeasterly winds which have a cooling effect.
Scientific Committee
Zuhal Akyürek, METU, Türkiye
Elena Anufriieva, Kovalevsky Institute of Biology of the Southern Seas, Russia
Bonnie Baxter, Great Salt Lake Institute, USA
Meryem Beklioğlu, METU, Türkiye
Emil Boros, Institute of Aquatic Ecology & Centre for Ecological Research, Hungary
Antonio Camacho, University of Valencia, Spain
Miguel Cañedo-Argüelles, Spanish National Research Council, Spain
Faith Coleman, Federation University Australia, Australia
Diógenes Costa, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil
Bindy Datson, Actis Environmental Services, Australia
Tianlong Deng, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, China
Maria Farias, National University of Tucuman, Argentina
Zsofia Horvath, Institute of Aquatic Ecology & Centre for Ecological Research, Hungary
Peter Hudson, South Australian Museum, Australia
Katia Hueso, Institute of Saltscapes and Salt Heritage, Spain
Erik Jeppesen, METU, Türkiye & Aarhus Univ, Denmark
Lichun Ma, Chinese Academy of Geological Sciences, China
Aharon Oren, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
Wayne Wurtsbaugh, Utah State Univ, USA
Mianping Zheng, Chinese Academy of Geological Sciences, China
Egor Zadereev, Institute of Biophysics SB RAS, Russia
Organizing Committee
Zuhal Akyürek, METU, Türkiye
Cihelio Alves Amorim, METU, Türkiye
Esat Arber, Arber Co, Türkiye
Meryem Beklioğlu, METU, Türkiye
Şeyda Erdoğan, Yozgat Bozok University, Türkiye
Emre Keskin, Ankara University, Türkiye
Mustafa Korkmaz, METU, Türkiye
Lichun Ma, Chinese Academy of Geological Sciences, China
Korhan Özkan, METU, Türkiye
Cüneyd Nadir Solak, Dumlupınar University, Türkiye
Nihan Tavşanoğlu, Çankırı Karatekin University, Türkiye
Wayne Wurstbough, Utah State University, USA
Egor Zadereev, Institute of Biophysics SB RAS, Russia
SCIENTIFIC TOPICS
• Geological history and paleoecology of saline lakes
• Physical-chemical processes and modeling of saline lakes
• Structure, functioning and dynamics of saline lake ecosystems
• Impact of desalination and freshwater salinization on ecosystem structure and functioning
• Impact of climate change and land use on the ecology of saline lake
• Biodiversity and conservation of saline lakes and adjacent habitats
• Economic and social values of saline lakes and impacts of resources (e.g. brine, Artemia, etc.) extraction
• Management and restoration of saline lakes and related watersheds
• Other topics
WHEN & HOW TO SUBMIT YOUR ABSTRACT?
We welcome contributions in abstract format for oral and/or poster presentations. The presentation type and schedule will be decided by the scientific committee after a peer review process. We will notify corresponding (submitting) authors of the decision upon completion of the review process.
Your early abstract submission is truly valued as it enables us to design an effective schedule and assign suitable meeting rooms, making sure you have a flawless presentation experience.
All accepted abstracts (following a blind review process) that are presented at the conference will be published in an online book of abstracts.
Using meetinghand digital platform, ensures your abstract submission aligns with the conference's requirements. The platform takes care of the format, including text length (ranging between 100 to 400 words) during the submission process. You can view the instructions before preparing your abstract by clicking here.
Ready to submit? Click HERE.
Kindly note that registration precedes abstract submission. Don't worry about the payment; please opt for "Book now, pay later" during checkout. Your account is available at all times for any edits to your abstract or to monitor its evaluation status.
If you are experiencing any issues with submitting your abstracts, please email esat@arber.com.tr for assistance.
