Outdoor Writers Association of America (OWAA) 2026 Conference

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.

With just three months to go until the midterms, editors will be looking for timely and in-depth stories about the issues that will dominate the news cycle. This panel will bring together policy experts and advocates from around the outdoor, conservation, and climate space to discuss what’s at stake as Americans head to the polls in November.

The outdoor industry is often associated with adventure, freedom, and well-being. But in reality, many of us who work in or write about the outdoors face long hours, financial uncertainty, climate grief, and burnout. This panel explores the realities of mental health for communicators, conservation professionals, recreation guides, and outdoor creators. Panelists will share personal experiences and highlight strategies for staying healthy--including how time spent outside can support healing and offer space for connection. Attendees will also gain insight into how thoughtful storytelling can reduce stigma and encourage more open conversations about mental health within the outdoor community.