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.
Registration is now open--click the button below to register.
See event programming highlights below, and click here to view the full agenda.
Summit Details
Healthy Waters, Healthy Communities, Healthy Economies
Request for Proposals, Posters, & Exhibitors
Thank you to everyone who submitted a proposal to exhibit on behalf of their organization, deliver an oral presentation, or present a student poster. Our request for proposals has closed, but please check back in summer 2027 for information on how to participate in next year's Summit. We look forward to seeing you in Columbus this October!
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). We recommend staying at Hampton Inn & Suites Columbus Downtown (501 North High St., Columbus, OH 43215), located within easy walking distance of the venue. While the discounted room rate is no longer available, the hotel may still have capacity. Click the button below to book a room.
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.