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 brought 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.
NCER 2026 featured three days of keynote speakers, panel discussions, and presentations focused on multi-scale restoration efforts in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems across the country. The conference kicked off with a welcome session, highlighting large-scale restoration initiatives in the region, including those connected to the Platte and Missouri Rivers. The 2026 NCER theme focused on the “Return on Investment” in ecosystem restoration for the nation and how that return could guide future planning, funding, and implementation.
Over the following days, plenary and concurrent sessions delved into major river and aquatic ecosystems, showcasing some of the nation's most significant and well-known restoration projects. These sessions featured in-depth discussions on bold ideas and the inner workings of large-scale aquatic restoration programs. In addition to aquatic restoration, sessions covered terrestrial ecosystems, decision-making processes, funding strategies, and project prioritization. The conference also explored themes of change, adaptation, and the future of restoration, fostering fresh ideas through interactive discussions and interdisciplinary dialogue. Attendees gained valuable insights into restoration challenges, lessons learned, and emerging opportunities.
NCER attendees had 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!
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 next conference!
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.
