Outdoor Writers Association of America (OWAA) 2026 Conference

Longtime journalist and journalism educator Patty Loew comments on how the mainstream media typically cover events in Indigenous communities. She offers practical advice on how to cultivate authentic relationships and report on important environmental issues affecting Native nations and their neighboring mainstream communities. Loew’s keynote reflects 50 years of experience covering climate change, oil pipelines, mining and other critical issues and decades of teaching journalism to the next generation of reporters.

Special guest - Madison Mayor Satya Rhodes Conway

Join an engaging panel discussion about the Ice Age National Scenic Trail, a breathtaking path that traces the edge of glaciers that shaped Wisconsin over 12,000 years ago. This treasured trail stretches for over a thousand miles and showcases the state’s natural beauty, making it a vital part of Wisconsin’s heritage and outdoor culture.
The panel will delve into the fascinating story of how the trail was created, explore the dedicated efforts behind its management, and discuss innovative strategies for marketing and promoting the trail. Plus, hear firsthand accounts of how people across the region are embracing the trail today—from hiking and biking, to community events and conservation initiatives. Don’t miss this chance to learn, connect, and discover new ways to experience and support the Ice Age Trail!

Few U.S. landscapes are as beloved – and as threatened – as the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness in Minnesota. This session brings together experts and storytellers for a current look at what’s at stake, ecologically, economically, culturally and recreationally, for America’s most visited wilderness, from proposed sulfide-ore mining to shifting federal policy.

Press trips can be powerful story starters for outdoor writers — and not just those covering travel. From paddling and hiking to conservation, wildlife, foodways, and rural communities, many compelling outdoor stories begin with a destination-hosted experience. But let’s be honest: press trips can also be confusing, awkward, or misaligned when expectations aren’t clear.

This interactive conversation is moderated by Brandy Jo Hastings, freelance outdoor travel writer and former destination marketing executive who has both hosted journalists and been the journalist on assignment. She’ll be joined by fellow freelancer Jessica Baltzersen, Jesse Wiederhold, Managing Director of Visit Keweenaw, and Eric Knopsnyder, Director of Public Relations and Community Outreach for GO Laurel Highlands, who have both hosted OWAA members in their respective destinations. 

Together, they’ll pull back the curtain on how destinations decide whom to invite, how press trips are justified internally, what “success” really looks like on the DMO side, and how writers can pitch individual visits with professionalism and clarity. The panel will also explore how to uncover multiple story angles during a hosted trip, set realistic expectations, maintain editorial integrity, and build long-term relationships that extend far beyond one visit.
Writers will walk away with practical, actionable strategies for making press trips work for their reporting. Destination marketers will gain insight into how to attract the right journalists and foster partnerships that lead to meaningful earned media.

We'll also announce who won the and Committee Volunteer of the Year and Outstanding Board Member of the Year!

Special Guest - Dane County Executive Melissa Agard

OWAA’s Speed Connection is back—a fast‑paced (yet casual) networking session designed to help you make meaningful professional connections in a short amount of time - all on the very first day.

How it works:

• It's a two‑hour networking event packed with individual four‑minute meetings.
• Sponsors, exhibitors, agencies and brands are stationed at tables. (Sponsors and exhibitors already have an exhibitor table and will just use that table for this event. If you’re not a sponsor or exhibitor but want a small table for the duration of Speed Connections (and only during Speed Connections), please purchase your table through the registration page.)
• Active, Senior and Life Members (Media) rotate from table to table. (No fee—just register.)
• You'll use these short meetings for introductions, a quick pitch, and getting to know each other. Then you can spend the next two-and-a-half days following up. 
• A designated open networking area will be available for Student Members, Associate Members, Speakers, and others who want to participate informally.
  
  

Want to join?
Active, Senior and Life Members (Media) should complete the participation form. Those needing a table (who aren't already exhibiting) should register directly through the event registration page.

A relaxed, open conversation with no set agenda for Chiefs only—simply a chance to check in, share updates, and reconnect.

Join Destination Madison for a “Summer in Madison” celebration on August 22 at the Pyle Center, beautifully situated on the shores of Lake Mendota and steps from the iconic Memorial Union Terrace. This lakeside gathering highlights the vibrant spirit of a Madison summer, with scenic views and fresh energy in the heart of campus. Catch the shuttle or take a stroll down lively State Street (approximately a 23‑minute walk from the convention center), a pedestrian‑only street lined with a variety of shops, restaurants, and museums that connects the Wisconsin State Capitol to the University of Wisconsin–Madison.