Forest Preserve & Conservation Symposium 2026

Description

Hosted by IPRA's Forest Preserve & Conservation (FPC) Section, this full-day SIGnature education event is designed to offer enriching professional development and meaningful networking opportunities for those working in conservation, education, and recreation.

This year's FPC Symposium explores innovative approaches to conservation, community engagement, accessibility, urban forestry, and environmental education. Participants will gain practical insights from real-world case studies, including collaborative conservation initiatives, regional tree planting and stewardship efforts, accessible program and website design, and nature-based learning strategies that inspire environmental stewardship in future generations. Through engaging presentations, facilitated discussions, and peer networking opportunities, attendees will leave with new ideas, resources, and connections to strengthen programs and services within their own organizations.

Whether you are focused on education, interpretation, stewardship, recreation, communications, volunteer engagement, or conservation management, this symposium offers valuable perspectives and actionable takeaways to help advance your work and better serve your communities. Includes a tour of the unique Hoover Forest Preserve that includes a team-building outdoor education course, variety of camping options, nature play space, baseball field, sledding hill, trails, prairie, woodlands and the Subat Nature Center. 

Registration deadline is Thursday, October 15, 2026.

Location

Kendall County Forest Preserve District - Meadowhawk Lodge, 11285 Fox Road, Yorkville, 60560.

Who Should Attend

The program is designed for professionals involved in environmental education, conservation programming, urban and community forestry, accessibility and inclusion, stewardship, public engagement, and partnership development. Professionals at all experience levels are encouraged to participate and share perspectives with peers from across Illinois.

Food / Beverage

Registration includes morning coffee and a lunch.

CEUs

Program is approved for 0.3 CEUs (Continuing Education Units for CPRE and CPRP certifications).

Interested in Sponsoring?
There are 3 levels of sponsorship opportunities available for interested organizations. Click 'Sponsor Registration' at the top of the page or click here to access IPRA's full sponsorship prospectus.