We are in a time of rapid and often unpredictable change. Freshwater ecosystems and the organisms that rely on them are threatened by a multitude of interacting stressors. Simultaneously, human communities that depend upon freshwater ecosystems are struggling to adapt to environmental, social, and economic stressors. Members of the Society for Freshwater Science work tirelessly to understand these environmental changes and the associated benefits provided by freshwaters. Meeting these challenges requires the entire freshwater science community and an understanding of what maintains the resilience of freshwater ecosystems, and how to strengthen ties with the people that live near and depend upon freshwater ecosystems.

The 2026 meeting will be held in Spokane, Washington, near Spokane Falls, a historic gathering place since well before European colonization. The theme is “Gathering to build resilient watersheds and communities”. Attendees are encouraged to tell their stories of the wonders of freshwater ecosystems as well as how their work contributes to ecosystem resilience. They also want to challenge attendees to reflect on how we can support the resilience of ourselves and our own scientific and regional communities. The foundation for this goal is set by hosting plenaries that weave together stories of the interdependence of freshwater ecosystems and humans, and the responses and resilience of both to issues such as pollution, dams, and climate change.