Conservation & Restoration for People & Nature

SCBNA’s North American Congress for Conservation Biology is the premier gathering of the region’s conservation community and serves as a leading forum for presenting the latest conservation research and practice to address today’s conservation challenges. The next iteration of NACCB – promoted as the North American Congress for Conservation and Restoration (NACCR) – will take place in Milwaukee, WI, USA, July 12–16, 2026, with the theme: Conservation & Restoration for People & Nature. This 2026 Congress will be jointly hosted with the Society for Ecological Restoration and SER’s Midwest Great Lakes Chapter. SCBNA, SER and SER-MWGL Chapter all traditionally host their own North American Congresses and annual meetings, but such efforts will be combined with NA

By bringing together SCBNA, SER, and SER-MWGL Chapter, this Congress fosters interdisciplinary collaboration at a critical time for conservation and restoration science. Milwaukee’s historical and ongoing efforts to restore the Milwaukee River, revitalize green spaces, and protect its freshwater resources mirror the Congress’s mission to integrate science, practice, and community engagement. The city’s blend of ecological resilience, cultural vibrancy, and collaborative conservation initiatives underscores the importance of solutions that serve both people and nature. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to engage with local and global experts, share best practices, and contribute to shaping a more sustainable and equitable future for ecosystems and communities alike.

NACCR 2026 offers a diverse range of symposia, concurrent sessions, workshops, short courses, and field trips to advance discourse and foster collaboration across disciplines. The Congress serves as an open platform for sharing unique perspectives and adapting emerging ideas, technologies, and methods in conservation and restoration science. SCBNA, SER, and SER-MWGL Chapter are committed to promoting diversity by providing dedicated spaces for Indigenous communities and marginalized groups to share their perspectives, experiences, and practices at the 2026 Congress.

To address barriers faced by underrepresented groups in conservation, SCBNA, SER, and SER-MWGL Chapter are actively exploring ways to enhance Congress attendance and participation. This includes offering scholarships, travel grants, and other related opportunities. Information regarding these options will be promptly shared on the Congress’ 2026 website when they are made available.