(Ankeny, Iowa – April 14, 2026) The Soil and Water Conservation Society (SWCS) 81st International Annual Conference, taking place July 26-29, 2026, in St. Louis, Missouri, will bring together researchers, practitioners, industry leaders, farmers, and students from around the world. Centered on this year’s theme, "Gateway to Conservation," the conference will foster collaboration and the exchange of ideas to advance science-based solutions for soil, water, and natural resource management.
To deepen these discussions, this year’s keynote speaker, Ray Archuleta, brings a message of hope rooted in decades of hands-on experience. A nationally recognized soil health advocate, Archuleta educates farmers, advisors, and the broader public on regenerative agriculture through a holistic, systems-based approach.
During his keynote, Archuleta will share how soil health principles can drive meaningful change in farming systems while supporting productivity, resilience, and long-term sustainability. Drawing from his extensive field experience, he will highlight the importance of practical, in-field insights and the role of trust and relationships in advancing conservation. Attendees will leave with actionable perspectives on how regenerative practices can support both farmers and ecosystems.
Additional sessions to look forward to:
- Public historian Amanda Clark will kick off the conference during the Local Forum and Flavor reception by exploring the complex environmental history of St. Louis. Her talk will highlight how water, soil, and natural resources shaped the city’s growth, challenges, and identity. Following the presentation, attendees can enjoy networking with appetizers and beverages showcasing Missouri’s agricultural history.
- The Tuesday Opening Remarks and Plenary Session will include updates from USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and Agricultural Research Service (ARS) leadership on priorities and the future of conservation. The session will conclude with “Farmers for Soil Health: Centering the Farmer in Conservation Programs,” featuring leaders and farmers sharing how research, incentives, and real-world practices are driving farmer-centered conservation.
- Wednesday’s Plenary Session, “Conservation Through the Generations,” will bring together past and present conservation leaders to reflect on the legacy and future of conservation, celebrating the people and progress that continue to shape the field.
In addition to hearing from leaders in conservation, attendees will explore the latest research and practical applications in soil health, water quality, and resource management through workshops, sessions, symposia, tours, exhibits, and demonstrations.
To learn more about activities at the SWCS International Annual Conference or to register, visit www.swcs.org/26AC. Early bird registration is open through June 16 and regular registration is open through July 16.
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About SWCS
With more than 2,000 members around the world, the Soil and Water Conservation Society (SWCS) is a nonprofit scientific and educational organization that serves as an advocate for conservation professionals and for science-based conservation practice, programs, and policy.
SWCS’s mission is to foster the science and art of natural resource conservation by discovering, developing, implementing, and improving conservation practices and systems that sustain the productive capacity of the land while protecting environmental quality.