Conservation Convention
Post Storms Community Workshop
September 26, 2026 | 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Treetops Resort, Gaylord, Michigan
About The Event
It is no secret that Northern Michigan has had its share of recent natural disasters that have left the community looking for answers. In an effort to connect residents with resources, education, and assistance, the Otsego Conservation District and HeadWaters Land Conservancy are hosting Conservation Con: Post Storms Community Workshop.
This event brings conservation groups, emergency resources, and the public together to share information about environmental disaster mitigation and preparation. Attendees will hear from speakers across forestry, utilities, water quality, environmental services, and emergency management, and will leave better prepared to deal with the aftermath of recent storms as well as future disasters.
This event is made possible through the Disaster Response Fund at the Otsego Community Foundation.
Format of the Day
The conference runs across three rooms, each hosting four speaker presentations throughout the day. Speaking sessions are led by nonprofit and government entities, keeping the day's content focused on public resources and conservation expertise.
From 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM, all sessions pause for a moderated speaker panel, an open Q&A for the public. No other sessions run during this window, so every attendee can take part.
Exhibitor tables run throughout the day, featuring vendors offering services relevant to disaster preparedness and conservation for the public.
Registration
Registration opens in August. Until then, help us shape the event, fill out our subject interest form so we know what topics and resources matter most to you.
Interested in Speaking?
Speaking sessions are reserved for nonprofit and government entities. Confirmed speakers receive lunch and a travel stipend. If you're interested in leading a session or joining the mid morning speaker panel, let us know using the form below.
Reserve a Exhibitor Booth
Exhibitor tables are available for for-profit vendors offering services relevant to disaster preparedness and conservation for the public. Reserve your booth using the form below.
Who Should Attend
This event is free and open to the public. Local residents, conservation professionals, emergency management staff, and community organizations from across Northern Michigan are all welcome.
Learn
Hear from conservation experts and emergency professionals about disaster mitigation and preparedness.
Connect
Meet local organizations, businesses, and agencies ready to help before and after disasters.
Prepare
Leave with practical tools, local resources, and actionable steps to protect your property and community.
Questions? Reach out to either host organization.
Otsego Conservation District
(989) 732-4021
kdraeger@otsegocountymi.go
HeadWaters Land Conservancy
(989) 731-0573
dfarner@headwatersconservancy.org