2026 NACD NE Region Meeting

The Delaware Association of Conservation Districts invites conservation district leaders, partners, and technical experts to join us at our 2026 National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD) Northeast Region Meeting.

As environmental, economic, and land-use pressures rapidly evolve, conservation districts must be adaptive, innovative, and resilient. This conference will focus on sharing practical, real-life success stories and tangible, local solutions that empower districts to effectively serve their communities. In addition to the “Management Excellence for Conservation Partners” training track listed above (where attendees have the flexibility to attend the entire training or just some of the sessions based on their interest), we’re working on an agenda that details implementation projects, measurable results, and actionable strategies in the following topic areas:

• Funding the Mission: Expanding Revenue and Capacity– This track focuses on the essential business of sustaining district operations, detailing successful, practical strategies for expanding Revenue Sources for Districts (e.g., diversifying grants, fee structures, local funding). Presentations will also showcase effective models for Partnerships to Build District Capacity, including how to successfully leverage Corporate Sustainability Initiatives and develop impactful Public-Private Partnerships that strengthen district resources and expertise.
• Adapting to New Land Use: Emerging Conservation Issues in Developed Land Uses– This critical track explores how conservation districts are innovating their work in the face of rapid development. We seek proposals that detail real-world examples of how districts are adapting their work based on the increasing development in solar operations, data centers, warehouses, etc. Presentations will highlight practical mitigation strategies, planning adaptations, and implementation protocols that ensure resource protection alongside development.
• Smart Conservation: Innovative Tools & Technologies for Implementation- This track is dedicated to the adoption of cutting-edge technology to increase efficiency and impact. We invite presentations that feature the practical application of Innovative Tools & Technologies (not just the theory), including Remote Sensing, AI, Customer Service Management (CSM), Project Management, and Implementation Tracking & Reporting Tools. Presentations focus on how these tools are currently being used in local districts to solve real conservation problems and measure success.
• Engaging the Community: Outreach, Education & Urban Growth- This track focuses on effective engagement and reaching new audiences. Presenters will share proven methods for Effective Outreach & Education strategies that lead directly to conservation adoption. We’ll offer practical success stories and models related to Urban and Community Agriculture, including how districts are supporting these efforts and integrating conservation practices into non-traditional settings to address local food security and environmental issues.
• Policy in Action: The District’s Role in Legislative Change- This track examines the direct influence districts have on the regulatory landscape. Presentations will analyze and detail the successful, on-the-ground impact of districts within policymaking at the federal, state, and local levels, and include examples of effective advocacy, coalition building, and how districts successfully translate local conservation needs into actionable public policy.