NCER Overview
"Return On Investment: How Are We Doing And What Is The Future?"
The National Conference on Ecosystem Restoration (NCER) is an interdisciplinary conference on ecosystem restoration presenting state-of-the art science and engineering, planning and policy in a partnership environment. NCER brings together decision-makers, scientists, engineers, policy makers, planners, and partners representing government, industry, NGOs, Tribes, academia, and a variety of entities actively involved in ecosystem restoration. Plenary and concurrent sessions feature presentations on large-scale restoration and rehabilitation in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems from across the country and the local region.
NCER attendees have an opportunity to learn, connect, establish new collaborations, gain valuable experience, and discover innovative approaches being employed by others — just a few of the many benefits of participating in NCER!
Why Omaha?
Omaha, Nebraska is at the center of the United States and happens to have two of the largest ecosystem and endangered species recovery programs in the U.S. in its backyard (Platte River and Missouri River), with the Mississippi River not far away. Omaha is also geographically connected to large grasslands in the central U.S., making it a jumping off point for many of the largest aquatic and terrestrial ecosystem restoration and water management programs in the U.S. With the Missouri River steps away from the conference hotel, easy access by car or air, and a vibrant downtown and riverfront, Omaha is an ideal location for a gathering of ecosystem professionals from around the country.
Watch this short video to see why you should join us in Omaha for NCER 2026!
Explore the Opportunities
NCER features four days of keynote speakers, panel sessions, and presentations dedicated to multi-scale ecosystem restoration efforts from around the country. The conference opens Monday morning with an opening welcome session and connection to large-scale restoration efforts in the area tied to the Platte River and Missouri River. The morning will shift to a plenary session focused on big rivers and aquatic systems that highlight some of the country’s largest and most recognizable ecosystem restoration efforts, highlighted by discussions of big ideas and presentations on inner workings of these large aquatic-based programs. The afternoon will feature the beginning of concurrent sessions comprised of panel sessions and individual talks.
Tuesday will include a plenary session and more concurrent sessions with a shift in focus to terrestrial restoration efforts. Wednesday will see a focus on decision-making, funding, and prioritization and Thursday will see a focus on change, adaptation, and the future. These sessions are designed to provoke new ideas by engaging the audience and facilitating interdisciplinary dialogue among experts, furthering our understanding of restoration challenges, lessons learned, and future opportunities. Attendees will have a chance to make new connections, establish collaborations, discover potential new approaches, and gain valuable experience. A premier gathering of ecosystem restoration professionals from across the country, NCER is a collaborative effort, and we invite you to join us at the 2026 conference.
