The 2026 ORBA Summit will be held October 14-16 at the Columbus Convention Center (Pod C, Pod D, and the connecting atrium). Click here to book your hotel and here for the poster & exhibitor RFP.
Registration is now open--click the button below to register; please note that earlybird pricing ends after Friday, October 02.
See event programming highlights below, and click here to view the full agenda.
Summit Details
Healthy Waters, Healthy Communities, Healthy Economies
Exhibitor Registration & Student Poster Submission
We are no longer accepting proposals for oral presentations and panel sessions, however, we are accepting student posters presentation and exhibitor submissions through Friday, October 02. Most presentations, including the exhibitors and student poster session, will occur on Thursday, October 15. Click the button below to submit your poster presentation or to register as an exhibitor.
Sponsorship Opportunities
The Ohio River Basin Alliance is seeking sponsors to support the 2026 Summit in Columbus, Ohio, this October. Click the button below or email ORBA Chair, Chris Lorentz, at lorentzc@thomasmore.edu for more information. Sponsors receive digital, print, and in-person recognition for their support of the event that brings together professionals, advocates, and friends of the Ohio River basin.
Venue & Hotel
The Summit will be at the Columbus Convention Center (Pod C, Pod D, and the connecting atrium), located at 400-500 North High St., Columbus, OH 43215). There is a hotel block of single occupancy rooms at Hampton Inn & Suites Columbus Downtown (501 North High St., Columbus, OH 43215), located within easy walking distance of the venue. Please note that the discounted room rate ends on 09/23.
Summit Programming
Photos by John Nation
Diverse Keynotes
During plenary sessions, hear from and converse with elected officials, government agencies, authors, leaders, and more.
Field Trips
Before and after ORBA Summits,
join other attendees and members in exploring local heritage, ecology, and water infrastructure. Click here to learn about the 2026 Summit field trip to the Hellbranch Run Restoration Site in Columbus, OH.
Networking & Socials
Enjoy local food & beverages with other Summit attendees to network and continue building important connections.
Sponsor & Exhibitor Opportunities
Each year, ORBA Summit sponsors and local environmental organizations have the opportunity to table to connect with future collaborators and users.
Breakout Rooms
Submit a proposal to lead a breakout room or deliver a presentation. Common breakout topics include ecological research, flood risk management, community education and outreach, among others.
Student Poster Session
Undergraduate and graduate students can present their research during our annual poster symposium, judged by ORBA leadership and collaborators.