Natural Areas Conference Where Science Meets Stewardship

The Natural Areas Conference: Where Science Meets Stewardship is set to be a premier event for land and water management practitioners and scientists, taking place at the Crowne Plaza Asheville in Asheville, United States. This conference has a rich history of over 50 years, serving as a vital platform for professionals from federal, tribal, state, regional, and local organizations, as well as NGOs, private industry, and academic institutions to come together.

The focus of the conference is on connecting conservation science with on-the-ground management efforts aimed at protecting biodiversity. Participants will have the opportunity to share emerging research and evidence-based practices while forming new relationships that can enhance collaborative efforts to tackle various challenges in the management of natural areas.

The 2026 conference will address several critical topics, including the ongoing recovery from Hurricane Helene and the long-standing commitment to conservation and stewardship in the region. Attendees can expect discussions on a range of subjects such as resilience in mountain bog ecosystems, innovative management strategies for white-tailed deer, and the intersection of invasive species management with GIS technology.

Key sessions will also explore the implications of artificial intelligence in conservation, emerging challenges in land stewardship, and the restoration of fire-adapted forests in Southern Appalachia. This national forum promises rich exchanges of information, bolstered by stories from participants about how insights gained from the conference have positively influenced their stewardship practices.

With a commitment to fostering collaboration and shared knowledge across diverse perspectives, the Natural Areas Conference is poised to enrich the learning experience for all involved.