River Rally 2026: Full Schedule

Welcome to River Rally 2026

1:00pm CDT

Monday May 11, 2026 1:00pm - 5:00pm CDT

The Urban Waters Learning Forum is an opportunity for the Urban Waters Learning Network to come together before River Network’s River Rally Conference. Hosted by River Network and Groundwork USA, the Forum is a space where any and all Urban Waters practitioners can build community, share resources, and connect with organizations navigating similar challenges.

Monday May 11, 2026 1:00pm - 5:00pm CDT
Encino Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Deep Dives

4:30pm CDT

Clean Water for All Happy Hour

Monday May 11, 2026 4:30pm - 6:00pm CDT

Zocca

Come join the Clean Water for All Coalition for an informal happy hour! Whether you are a member, partner, or just interested in learning more about the Coalition, you’re welcome to join us for some snacks, drinks, and activities to help get to know your fellow coalition members.

Speakers

Jenifer Collins

Coalition Director, Clean Water for All Coalition

Jenifer (Jeni) Collins serves as Director of the Clean Water for All Coalition, where she oversees the operations of the Coalition, supports member organizations and partners, manages grants and fundraising, and runs Coalition programs and initiatives. Jeni has been working with the... Read More →

Kristine Oblock

Protect Our Waters Senior Campaign Manager, Clean Water For All

Kristine leads the Protect Our Waters Campaign for the Clean Water for All Coalition to protect and expand clean water safeguards across the country in light of the recent rollbacks to federal protections. Kristine comes to Clean Water for All with more than a decade of experience... Read More →

Lucy Evert

Eastern Regional Field Director, National Wildlife Federation

Monday May 11, 2026 4:30pm - 6:00pm CDT
Zocca Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Affinity Spaces, Clean Water for All

5:00pm CDT

Rally First-Timers Meet & Greet

Monday May 11, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm CDT

Camino Real

Is this your first River Rally? We invite you to the First-Timers Meet & Greet where you'll meet other first-timers and learn from Rally enthusiasts about how to make the most of your time in San Antonio. Bring your questions and curiosity. This group will walk to the Welcome Reception at Texas Public Radio together.

Monday May 11, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm CDT
Camino Real Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Affinity Spaces

6:00pm CDT

River Rally 2026 Welcome Reception (10 minute walk)

Monday May 11, 2026 6:00pm - 9:00pm CDT

Texas Public Radio Building

Kick off River Rally 2026 on the bank of San Pedro creek! Ah Manam Spiritual Group, led by Gloria Camarillo-Vasquez, Tāp Pīlam Coahuiltecan Elder and Spiritual Guide will open and welcome River Rally with a prayer and land acknowledgement to offer blessings.Remarks by Derek Boese of San Antonio River Authority and the Rally Local Planning Team will shape Rally-goers sense of place as they arrive...
See More →

Monday May 11, 2026 6:00pm - 9:00pm CDT
Texas Public Radio Building 321 W Commerce St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Off-Site Events

7:00am CDT

Breakfast

Tuesday May 12, 2026 7:00am - 9:00am CDT

Westin Lobby

Because of field trips, breakfast will be set up for everyone in the lobby, and ready to grab-and-go! Pick up some coffee, fruit, and a sandwich to enjoy before you head out, or on the bus.Not going on a field trip? Take yours to enjoy on one of the lovely Westin balconies, or find a quiet bench along the Riverwalk.Menu:Freshly Baked Croissant | *Plant Based Protein*, Aged White...
See More →

Tuesday May 12, 2026 7:00am - 9:00am CDT
Westin Lobby

Meals

7:30am CDT

The Meadows Center: Glass Bottom Boat & Ecosystems at Spring Lake (7:30am departure) [external registration required]

Tuesday May 12, 2026 7:30am - 12:00pm CDT

The Westin Riverwalk, San Antonio

Travel north to San Marcos to experience the Sacred Springs (also called Spring Lake) at The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment (a program of Texas State University). In this place, considered the oldest persistently inhabited place in North America, enjoy hearing the Aheuac Yana Creation Story, view the Springs from a glass-bottom boat, spot wildlife on a wetlands walk, and learn about...
See More →

Tuesday May 12, 2026 7:30am - 12:00pm CDT
The Westin Riverwalk, San Antonio 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205, USA

Field Trips

8:45am CDT

Mission Reach Bike Tour (8:45am departure) [external registration required]

Tuesday May 12, 2026 8:45am - 10:15am CDT

The Westin Riverwalk, San Antonio

Experience the San Antonio River like never before on this guided biking tour along the Mission Reach. Participants will bike through a beautifully restored stretch of the river that connects to San Antonio’s historic missions. Along the way, guides will share insights about the river’s restoration, local wildlife, and cultural landmarks that make this section so unique. This relaxed ride...
See More →

Tuesday May 12, 2026 8:45am - 10:15am CDT
The Westin Riverwalk, San Antonio 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205, USA

Field Trips

9:00am CDT

Confluence Park Ecosystems Tour [external registration required]

Tuesday May 12, 2026 9:00am - 12:00pm CDT

The Westin Riverwalk, San Antonio

Experience an in-depth look at the environmental and ecological initiatives that make the San Antonio River Basin a thriving habitat. This guided educational tour at Confluence Park will highlight the park’s sustainable architecture, native landscaping, and its role as a living classroom for watershed education. Participants will also learn about the San Antonio River Authority’s ongoing...
See More →

Tuesday May 12, 2026 9:00am - 12:00pm CDT
The Westin Riverwalk, San Antonio 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205, USA

Field Trips

9:00am CDT

Downtown / Museum Reach Barge Ride [external registration required]

Tuesday May 12, 2026 9:00am - 12:00pm CDT

The Westin Riverwalk, San Antonio

Enjoy a guided barge ride through the heart of downtown San Antonio and along the scenic Museum Reach. Participants will experience the vibrant mix of art, architecture, and history that line the river’s banks, from the lively River Walk core to the serene stretches connecting to the San Antonio Museum of Art and Pearl District. Along the journey, guides will share stories about the river’s...
See More →

Tuesday May 12, 2026 9:00am - 12:00pm CDT
The Westin Riverwalk, San Antonio 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205, USA

Field Trips

9:00am CDT

Edwards Aquifer Field Research Park [external registration required]

Tuesday May 12, 2026 9:00am - 12:00pm CDT

The Westin Riverwalk, San Antonio

Join staff of the Edwards Aquifer Authority for learning & discussion about water management in Texas Hill Country. The Field Research Park is the Aquifer Authority’s hub for groundwater research: staff are actively researching how the health of the land, soil and vegetation contribute to recharge, water quality, and water quantity. Participants should anticipate discussion at the...
See More →

Tuesday May 12, 2026 9:00am - 12:00pm CDT
The Westin Riverwalk, San Antonio 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205, USA

Field Trips

9:00am CDT

Integrated River Management Kayaking [external registration required]

Tuesday May 12, 2026 9:00am - 12:00pm CDT

The Westin Riverwalk, San Antonio

Spend the morning on the San Antonio River with River Network, American Rivers, and San Antonio River Authority staff learning about integrated river management: a collaborative, community-focused process that defines a common vision for the community’s river corridor through integrated planning. This field trip is complementary to the integrated river management learning session (Tuesday @ 3:15...
See More →

Tuesday May 12, 2026 9:00am - 12:00pm CDT
The Westin Riverwalk, San Antonio 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205, USA

Field Trips

9:00am CDT

Litter Clean Up & Data to Action [external registration required]

Tuesday May 12, 2026 9:00am - 12:00pm CDT

The Westin Riverwalk, San Antonio

Join River Aid San Antonio at Olmos Basin Park: we’re getting our hands dirty! Participate in a litter clean up and learn how to analyze what you pick up using the Escaped Trash Assessment Protocol (ETAP). Learn about initiatives to install in-stream litter booms and learn what it takes to effectively capture litter in our waterways and move data to action to prevent and manage litter. Gloves,...
See More →

Tuesday May 12, 2026 9:00am - 12:00pm CDT
The Westin Riverwalk, San Antonio 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205, USA

Field Trips

9:00am CDT

Mission Reach Kayaking [external registration required]

Tuesday May 12, 2026 9:00am - 12:00pm CDT

The Westin Riverwalk, San Antonio

Join us for a guided paddling adventure along the scenic Mission Reach of the San Antonio River. Participants will explore this restored stretch of the river by kayak, experiencing firsthand the balance of nature, culture, and recreation that defines the area. As you paddle through the winding waterways, you’ll learn about the river’s ecological restoration, its connection to the San Antonio...
See More →

Tuesday May 12, 2026 9:00am - 12:00pm CDT
The Westin Riverwalk, San Antonio 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205, USA

Field Trips

9:00am CDT

San Pedro Creek Culture Park [external registration required]

Tuesday May 12, 2026 9:00am - 12:00pm CDT

The Westin Riverwalk, San Antonio

Discover the story of San Antonio’s origins and revitalization on a guided tour of San Pedro Creek Culture Park. Participants will explore the beautifully restored waterway that blends public art, local history, and native landscaping to celebrate the city’s rich cultural heritage. Along the walk, guides will highlight key artworks, interpretive features, and the creek’s role in flood...
See More →

Tuesday May 12, 2026 9:00am - 12:00pm CDT
The Westin Riverwalk, San Antonio 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205, USA

Field Trips

9:00am CDT

Starwalk with Pakahua Nacion [external registration required]

Tuesday May 12, 2026 9:00am - 12:00pm CDT

The Westin Riverwalk, San Antonio

Join Cultural Bearers of the Pakahua Peoples of Northeastern Mexico and Texas for a guided walking tour in Brackenridge Park, where you will walk the Earth and sky together as San Antonio River mirrors the constellation of Eridanus. Learn how this Celestial knowledge and Earthly waterway are central parts of Indigenous Creation Stories, and how they inform cultural and ecological knowledge....
See More →

Speakers

Matilde Torres-Romero

Born and raised along the Balcones Escarpment in Yanaguana (San Antonio, Texas), Matilde Torres-Romero is deeply rooted in the cultural and historical heritage of the region. She is a proud descendant of Juan Francisco Lucas, a prominent Indigenous leader of the Puebla Sierra, who... Read More →

Gary Perez

Gary Perez was Born at Ft Sam Houston and placed under adoption in the care of the Congregation of Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word at St. Peter Saint Joseph’s Orphanage in San Antonio. Adopted by His Parents Reymundo and Frances Perez of Pearsall. In his twenties, Gary... Read More →

Tuesday May 12, 2026 9:00am - 12:00pm CDT
The Westin Riverwalk, San Antonio 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205, USA

Field Trips

9:00am CDT

Water Quality Training: Texas Stream Team [external registration required]

Tuesday May 12, 2026 9:00am - 12:00pm CDT

The Westin Riverwalk, San Antonio

Join River Aid San Antonio to learn about the Texas Stream Team Water Quality Monitoring program, and get your hands dirty practicing it yourself! Learn the basic parameters of water quality monitoring and the power of community science: take field observations and sample observations from the San Antonio River at Brackenridge Park, learn about ongoing water quality efforts in the San Antonio...
See More →

Tuesday May 12, 2026 9:00am - 12:00pm CDT
The Westin Riverwalk, San Antonio 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205, USA

Field Trips

10:15am CDT

Mission Reach Bike Tour (10:15am departure) [external registration required]

Tuesday May 12, 2026 10:15am - 12:00pm CDT

The Westin Riverwalk, San Antonio

Tuesday May 12, 2026 10:15am - 12:00pm CDT
The Westin Riverwalk, San Antonio 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205, USA

Field Trips

12:00pm CDT

Lunch

Tuesday May 12, 2026 12:00pm - 1:30pm CDT

Navarro Ballroom

MENU:Chef's Seasonally Inspired SoupQuinoa Salad | Olives, Bell Peppers, Cucumbers, Feta, Fresh Herbs, White Wine Vinaigrette (V, GF)Greens | Romaine Hearts, Mixed Greens, (VE, GF, DF)Toppings | Carrots, Baby Tomatoes, Red Onion, English Cucumber, Peppers, Pecans, Parmesan, Gorgonzola, Eggs, Focaccia CroutonsProteins (GF) | Portobello Mushrooms (VE), Crispy Tofu (VE), Whole Chickpea Tabouleh Salad...
See More →

Tuesday May 12, 2026 12:00pm - 1:30pm CDT
Navarro Ballroom Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Meals

1:00pm CDT

Acknowledging & Learning From the Central Texas Floods

Tuesday May 12, 2026 1:00pm - 1:30pm CDT

Navarro Ballroom

As lunch wraps up on Tuesday, and to cue up the Plenary conversation about Proposal 4, experts in Texas will tell the story of the 2025 Central Texas Floods: what happened, recovery efforts underway, and lessons learned.

Tuesday May 12, 2026 1:00pm - 1:30pm CDT
Navarro Ballroom Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Plenary

1:30pm CDT

The Voice of the Many: Securing Water Funding for Texas

Tuesday May 12, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CDT

Navarro Ballroom

What did it take to secure $20 billion for water in Texas? How will the investment shape the future of Texas’ water security? Prop 4 is more than just funding, it’s a blueprint for how collaboration can drive success. In this dynamic and inspiring plenary, we’ll learn about the collaboration, dedication, and mobilization required to build a powerful statewide campaign for water funding....
See More →

Moderators

Sarah Schlessinger

CEO, Texas Water Foundation

Sarah Schlessinger is the CEO of Texas Water Foundation, a statewide nonprofit that works in water policy, workforce development, and public education on water. She previously worked in groundwater policy and regulation, and has experience with international nonprofits and disaster... Read More →

Speakers

Jennifer Walker

Texas Coast and Waters Program, Senior Director, National Wildlife Federation

Jennifer Walker is the Senior Director of the Texas Coast and Water Program at National Wildlife Federation. She focuses on water policy with an emphasis on water planning, infrastructure funding, and urban water management. She has helped develop and inform strategic action by utilizing... Read More →

Guadalupe Fernandez

Policy Strategy Director, Bayou City Waterkeeper

Guadalupe serves as the Policy Strategy Director at Bayou City Waterkeeper, where she leads the advancement of water policies that prioritize justice, health, and safety in Houston and across the Lower Galveston Bay watershed. Living within a mile of the Port of Houston, she brings... Read More →

Sydney Garcia

Senior Program Associate, Cynthia and George Mitchell Foundation

Sydney Garcia is the Senior Program Associate for the Land Conservation and Water Programs at the Cynthia and George Mitchell Foundation. She is a multi-generation Tejana with a deep commitment to the state’s natural resources and communities. Her work at the foundation supports... Read More →

Vanessa Puig Williams

Senior Director and Attorney, Environmental Defense Fund

Vanessa Puig-Williams is a Senior Director and Attorney on the Climate Resilient Water Systems Team at Environmental Defense Fund, where she leads EDF’s efforts to advance sustainable groundwater management in Texas and across the Southwest. Before joining EDF, Vanessa served as... Read More →

Tuesday May 12, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CDT
Navarro Ballroom Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Plenary

3:15pm CDT

Activating Our Urban Waterways (Wild Mile Case Study)

Tuesday May 12, 2026 3:15pm - 4:45pm CDT

Goraz

Join Zachary Damato, co-founder of Urban Rivers, for an engaging workshop, ‘Activating Our Urban Waterways (Wild Mile Case Study)’, which will focus on how Urban Rivers took a stretch of the Chicago River and transformed it into the largest floating public park in the country. For any individual from a local NGO to a water enthusiast to a city planner will benefit from this workshop. The...
See More →

Speakers

Zachary Damato

Co-founder & Director of Strategic Partnerships (Urban Rivers), Urban Rivers

Zachary Damato has spent his career on environmental issues, from food waste to healthier CPG products to river conservation. In 2009, Zachary co-founded a specialty and organic food distribution company, Norman Distribution Inc. Afterward, he worked as a mentor for Techstars and... Read More →

Tuesday May 12, 2026 3:15pm - 4:45pm CDT
Goraz Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Sessions, Healthy Rivers

3:15pm CDT

Community-Led Grantmaking: What’s Funded When the Community Leads?

Tuesday May 12, 2026 3:15pm - 4:45pm CDT

Lantana

This session offers an introduction to the intersecting worlds of grassroots fundraising, giving circles, and trust-based philanthropy — exploring what becomes possible when grantmaking and community investments are guided by the people closest to the work. Participants will get an inside look at River Network's Flow Fund Circle, a model that puts decision-making power directly into the hands of...
See More →

Speakers

Tricia Cortez

Executive Director, Rio Grande International Study Center

Care deeply about environmental justice here in South Texas.
River restoration, Clean Water Act, Clean Air Act, revamping our regulatory framework to hold industry and polluters accountable, financially and otherwise.
Border Wall fighter.
Fighting climate issues at a local level is... Read More →

Monica Lewis-Patrick

Founder, We the People of Detroit

Monica Lewis-Patrick is an educator, entrepreneur, and human rights activist. With guidance and support from the other four founders of We the People of Detroit (WPD), and the leadership of volunteers and community experts, she has become one of the most distinguished social justice... Read More →

Brenda Coley

Former co-Executive Director, Milwaukee Water Commons

Brenda Coley has been Queering the environmental sector since joining Milwaukee Water Commons in 2019. Coley is a Wisconsin based activist whose work has been inspired with the understanding there is a profound social justice connection between People and Planet. She has served in... Read More →

Sharon Bagley

Founder, Not Orange, Inc.

Jessie Fuentes

Activist, Eagle Pass Border Coalition

Sharee Harrison

Founder, Orange Trail Mix

Born and raised in the Township of Orange, Sharee Harrison is an African American entrepreneur, community advocate, Master gardener, and emerging philanthropist deeply committed to strengthening urban communities through education, access, and opportunity.

Arthur Johnson

Chief Executive Officer, Lower 9th Ward Center for Sustainable Engagement & Development

Born in the Nation’s Capital with roots in New Orleans that date back to visits with his grandmother in the Lower Ninth Ward on Fostall Street. Mr. Johnson earned his undergraduate and graduate degrees from George Washington University and the University of District of Columbia... Read More →

Dr. Bernard Singleton

Environmental Research Director/Co-Founder of CSED's Environmental Research Internship Program, Dillard University & Center for Sustainable Engagement and Development (CSED)

Dr. Bernard Singleton is a native of New Orleans. He is an Associate Professor of Biology at Dillard University. He is also a Dillard Alumnus. He earned his DVM, a MS in Microbiology, and a second B.S. in Animal and Poultry Sciences at Tuskegee University. He was commissioned as an... Read More →

Tuesday May 12, 2026 3:15pm - 4:45pm CDT
Lantana Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Sessions, Strong Orgs & Leaders

3:15pm CDT

Data Center Deluge: What You Actually Need to Know

Tuesday May 12, 2026 3:15pm - 4:45pm CDT

Camino Real

The entire water sector has been buzzing with the explosive growth of data centers and what it means for water supply, quality, long-term planning, and its impacts on our communities and ecosystems. In this panel, get a lay of the land from a range of speakers who are researching data center impacts, partnering with big tech to improve water management challenges, and tackling local and state...
See More →

Speakers

Ryan Anderson

Staff Attorney, Southern Environmental Law Center

Ryan drafts motions and briefs, and conducts legal research, developing case strategies and legal arguments in SELC matters in her home state of Alabama. She lives and works in Birmingham, where she is originally from.

Ellen Kohler, JD, MS

Director of Applied Research and Policy, The Water Center at the University of Pennsylvania

Ellen joins the Water Center after serving as the Program Director for Water Resources at the University of Maryland’s Environmental Finance Center. Her work there focused on water resource management issues challenging communities in the mid-Atlantic region, particularly supporting... Read More →

Margaret Cook, PhD

Vice President, Water & Community Resilience, Houston Advanced Research Center (HARC)

With a strong foundation in engineering, policy, and the water-energy-climate nexus, Dr. Cook has successfully collaborated with diverse stakeholders to address critical challenges in these sectors, co-developing programs with communities and prioritizing those with greatest need. Her... Read More →

Tuesday May 12, 2026 3:15pm - 4:45pm CDT
Camino Real Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Sessions, Emerging Leaders and Emerging Issues

3:15pm CDT

From Listening to Co-Creation: Insights From a Community-Centered Municipal Planning Process in Austin, Texas

Tuesday May 12, 2026 3:15pm - 4:45pm CDT

Zapata

Have you ever been told that community engagement is outside your scope? In this interactive session, city and community representatives from Austin, Texas will share their experience creating and sustaining Rain to River, an equity and community-centered planning process. This session explores the very real benefits of effective engagement and will tackle questions like: “How can we design our...
See More →

Speakers

Janis Bookout

Rain to River Community Participant, Rain to River Community Activation Group

Janis Bookout is a community leader and consultant that specializes in systems change, stakeholder collaboration, community engagement. She is also the director of Earth Day Austin (which runs the annual Earth Day ATX festival), and co-founder of Community Resilience Trust, a multi-racial... Read More →

Tymon Khamsi

Planner III/Community Engagement Planner, City of Austin Watershed Protection

Tymon Khamsi (he/they) grew up in Tucson, Arizona, where they became passionate about water resources and the Sonoran Desert. This led them to study Hydrology at the University of Arizona before pursuing a master’s degree from the UT Austin Community and Regional Planning program... Read More →

Kelly Gagnon

Principal Planner, City of Austin Watershed Protection

Tuesday May 12, 2026 3:15pm - 4:45pm CDT
Zapata Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Sessions

3:15pm CDT

Learn the Tools of the Clean Water Act and How to Use Them to Mobilize Advocates and Protect Clean Water

Tuesday May 12, 2026 3:15pm - 4:45pm CDT

Olivares

Join this session to learn the tools in the Clean Water Act you can use to protect your communities and local waters. You'll learn from real-world case studies where advocates are using the Clean Water Act to connect and mobilize to protect their waters, and you’ll get hands-on practice that will help equip you to use these tools in your communities.If you have a laptop, bring it with you - it...
See More →

Speakers

Marie Campbell

Community Engagement Director, Harpeth Conservancy

Christine Favilla

Three Rivers Project Coordinator, Sierra Club, Illinois Chapter

Christine Favilla, Three Rivers Project Coordinator, Sierra Club, Illinois Chapter - Christine works on education and advocacy surrounding air quality, sustainable agriculture, water quality, and water management issues in a tri-county region in Southern Illinois since 2001. Christine... Read More →

Colleen McGuire

Urban and Community Forestry Director, River Network

Colleen joined River Network in 2020 and has served as the Urban and Community Forestry Director since 2026, where she supports 30 communities with their Urban and Community Forestry projects. She previously served as River Network’s Healthy Rivers Program Manager, where she trained... Read More →

Becky Smith

Texas State Director, Clean Water Action

Becky has worked with Clean Water Action in multiple roles since 2001. Her work has included assembling a multi-sector network in Massachusetts to support innovative and alternative approaches for integrated water and energy resource management, support for initiatives such as the... Read More →

Tuesday May 12, 2026 3:15pm - 4:45pm CDT
Olivares Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Sessions, Clean Water for All

3:15pm CDT

Managing Floodplains to Improve Community Vitality, Build Resilience, and Mitigate Risk

Tuesday May 12, 2026 3:15pm - 4:45pm CDT

Encino

With extreme weather on the rise, developing a shared vision for our river corridors is more critical than ever. This session highlights the importance of uniting diverse interests to create an integrated approach to floodplain management. Panelists will showcase real-world examples of integrated floodplain management and share tools for assessing hazards and identifying multi-benefit...
See More →

Speakers

Lacey Davis

Associate Director, Floodplain Restoration, American Rivers

Brian Murphy

Healthy Rivers Program Specialist, River Network

Brian Murphy is River Network’s Healthy Rivers Program Director. He supports local leaders working to ensure Western communities and rivers are healthy and resilient into the future. Brian has worked in the floodplain management and watershed planning field for over 20 years. He... Read More →

Eileen Shader

Sr Director, Floodplain Restoration, American Rivers

Tuesday May 12, 2026 3:15pm - 4:45pm CDT
Encino Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Sessions, Healthy Rivers

3:15pm CDT

Ready for Prime Time: Media Training 101

Tuesday May 12, 2026 3:15pm - 4:45pm CDT

Villa

Anyone can be a great spokesperson for your organization with the right training and practice. This workshop will lead participants through a formal media training before working as pairs to practice speaking to a reporter. We will conclude with a discussion of how participants can recreate the training for their team.

Speakers

Patrick Williams (He/Him)

Director of Creative Services, Bold Bison Communications & Consulting

Bold Bison Communications and Consulting provides forward-thinking communications solutions, engaging strategy and facilitation services, and inspiring workshops and trainings for nonprofits, particularly in the conservation, climate, and local food movements, as well as the arts... Read More →

Brandon Hayes (he/him)

Founder and Principal, Bold Bison Communications and Consulting

Tuesday May 12, 2026 3:15pm - 4:45pm CDT
Villa Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Sessions, Communications for Water

3:15pm CDT

Transitions and Flows: An Honest Dialogue on the Challenges of Today’s Water Sector Careers

Tuesday May 12, 2026 3:15pm - 4:45pm CDT

Sabino

In the past year, unprecedented shifts in funding have rocked the environmental sector causing layoffs, early retirements, and more professionals deciding or being forced to make career pivots. The job application process has in turn become extremely competitive and challenging to navigate. Reflecting on their recent experiences making career transitions, past River Network Emerging Leaders will...
See More →

Speakers

Hira Ahmad

Great Lakes Philanthropy Fellow, Fred and Barbara Erb Family Foundation

Hira Ahmad is a Council of Michigan Foundations Philanthropy Fellow, in partnership with the Fred and Barbara Erb Family Foundation, where she is supporting Great Lakes grantmaking and the Foundation’s commitment to environmental stewardship. Prior to joining the Erb Family Foundation... Read More →

Mariah Davis

President, Davis Strategies

Based in Annapolis, MD, Mariah Davis brings 10 years of experience working on local, state, and federal environmental and social justice issues. She is a highly skilled policy professional with executive leadership experience in the nonprofit and state government sectors. She has... Read More →

Tuesday May 12, 2026 3:15pm - 4:45pm CDT
Sabino Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Sessions, Emerging Leaders and Emerging Issues

5:30pm CDT

Leaders of Color Convening (2 minute walk)

Tuesday May 12, 2026 5:30pm - 7:30pm CDT

Pink Shark

Pink Shark (203 N Presa St, San Antonio, TX 78205) is a 2-minute walk from the Westin, Riverwalk.

Special thanks to Earthjustice for their support of the LOC event!

Tuesday May 12, 2026 5:30pm - 7:30pm CDT
Pink Shark 203 N Presa St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Affinity Spaces

8:00pm CDT

Return to MAMA

Tuesday May 12, 2026 8:00pm - 9:30pm CDT

Charline McCombs Empire Theatre

Return To MAMA: a 75 minute immersive theatrical experience that re-awakens our connection to water and each other.Tony Award Winning San Antonio native Britton Smith brings Return to MAMA to the historic Empire Theatre—a free, live concert experience blending music, storytelling, and civic engagement to explore our relationship to water.Doors open at 7:30 PM.Performance begins at 8:00...
See More →

Tuesday May 12, 2026 8:00pm - 9:30pm CDT
Charline McCombs Empire Theatre 226 N St Mary’s St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Off-Site Events

7:30am CDT

Breakfast

Wednesday May 13, 2026 7:30am - 9:00am CDT

Navarro Ballroom

MENU:Orange and Cranberry JuiceSliced Seasonal Fruits with Berry Garnish (VE, GF, DF)Freshly Baked Morning Pastries and MuffinsFruit Preserves, ButterAssorted Breakfast Cereals with Bananas, 2% and Skim Milk(Soy, Oat, and Almond Milk on Request)Individual Flavored Greek Yogurts (GF)Scrambled Whole Eggs (GF)Shredded Cheddar and Smoked Tomato Salsa (on Side)**Beyond Breakfast Sausage (VE)**Beyond...
See More →

Wednesday May 13, 2026 7:30am - 9:00am CDT
Navarro Ballroom Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Meals

7:45am CDT

LGBTQ+ Affinity Walk

Wednesday May 13, 2026 7:45am - 8:45am CDT

Zocca

Join an LGBTQ+ affinity group for a relaxed and welcoming walk & talk during River Rally along the beautiful San Antonio Riverwalk. This will be a great chance to connect, celebrate community, and enjoy some fresh air together. Grab a coffee, tea, or pastry from the Rally breakfast buffet before we head out for a short (approximately 2-mile) walk to start your Wednesday at Rally. Attendees will be...
See More →

Speakers

Patrick Williams (He/Him)

Director of Creative Services, Bold Bison Communications & Consulting

Brandon Hayes (he/him)

Founder and Principal, Bold Bison Communications and Consulting

Wednesday May 13, 2026 7:45am - 8:45am CDT
Zocca Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Affinity Spaces

9:00am CDT

Artists and Advocates: A Water Arts Showcase for a Unified Movement

Wednesday May 13, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am CDT

Navarro Ballroom

River Network board member Dr. Mel Lewis will bring local and regional artists together across various mediums to celebrate our connection to water as a friend, relative, nurturer, and healer. This storytelling session will bring artists and water advocates together to build a more unified movement.

Special thanks to Presenting Sponsor:

Speakers

Dr. Mel Lewis

Root to Flourish Collective

Dr. Mel Michelle Lewis is an environmental arts & humanities thought leader, scholar, writer, and transdisciplinary artist deeply committed to ensuring systemically marginalized voices are central to shaping the future of environmental stewardship. Dr. Mel is the inaugural Executive... Read More →

Wednesday May 13, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
Navarro Ballroom Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Plenary

10:30am CDT

Crafting Effective Water Messaging: From Research to Real-World Application

Wednesday May 13, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT

Sabino

Knowing your issue isn't enough, you have to be able to communicate it! This hands-on workshop with presenters from Water Hub, the Healing Our Waters-Great Lakes Coalition, and American Rivers covers the basics of polling research, shares key findings from a newly developed water messaging playbook, and gives you practice turning complicated, technical language into messaging that lands.

Speakers

Lindsey Bacigal

Communications Manager, Healing Our Waters-Great Lakes Coalition

Lindsey leads strategic communications efforts to protect and restore the waters of the Great Lakes region. Prior to her current role, she worked in Canada for various Indigenous organizations and became heavily involved in local and national activism around Indigenous rights and... Read More →

Sinjin Eberle

Senior Director, Regional Communications, American Rivers

I believe that open spaces, wild landscapes, and free-flowing rivers deserve all the respect and reverence we can possibly afford them. With that in mind, I enthusiastically pursue my role with American Rivers and strive to raise the profile and prominence of the organization across... Read More →

Nicole Lampe

Managing Director, Water Hub

Nicole has worked in cause communications for over fifteen years. For most of that time, she has focused on protecting environmental and public health. Nicole sits on the board of River Network. She studied history at the University of California, Berkeley.

Wednesday May 13, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Sabino Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Sessions, Communications for Water

10:30am CDT

Critical Infrastructure: Building Local Leadership for Climate Resilience

Wednesday May 13, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT

Olivares

We hear it constantly: "Community members already know the solutions to the problems they face." How then, can local organizations help community members actually access what they need to implement those solutions? Community Leadership Development programs are filling this gap in communities across the country, connecting individuals to knowledge, skills, power, and resources to advance the...
See More →

Speakers

Jackie Baham

Program Coordinator, New Orleans East Green Infrastructure Collective

Jacqueline (Jackie) Baham, a Native New Orleanian, dedicates her work to her community in New Orleans East. She leads NOEGIC and is part of the Water Wise Gulf South Collective, focusing on community engagement, education about nature-based solutions, and Green Infrastructure projects... Read More →

Juan Lazo Bautista

Field Director, Defensores de la Cuenca

Previously, Juan worked with USDA Forest Service supporting partnership development where he led a national program to engage diverse communities in conservation education action projects and increase access to their public lands. Juan also has experience in labor organizing, youth... Read More →

Hannah Mico

Resilient Communities Manager, River Network

Hannah joined the team at River Network in 2020. As the Resilient Communities Manager, she assists organizations across the Great Lakes and beyond with building capacity in themselves and their communities. Her experience in equitable program design, education, and training informs... Read More →

Diamond Spratling

Founder & Executive Director, Girl Plus Environment

Diamond is the founder and executive director of Girl Plus Environment, where she inspires women of color to champion climate and environmental justice. Growing up in Detroit shaped her mission to dismantle health, racial, and environmental inequities in communities of color. With... Read More →

Wednesday May 13, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Olivares Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Sessions, Climate Resilient Communities

10:30am CDT

I Wanna Be Where the People Are: Communications as Community Building

Wednesday May 13, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT

Camino Real

What happens when conservation nonprofits shift how they communicate both strategically by positioning themselves as the best possible neighbor, and tactically by using easy tools to be more inviting, accessible, and collaborative? In this highly interactive workshop, we’ll find out. Come prepared to think about where the people in your community are and how to engage with them. This approach to...
See More →

Speakers

Brandon Hayes (he/him)

Founder and Principal, Bold Bison Communications and Consulting

Frida Ramirez

Creative Specialist, Bold Bison Communications & Consulting

Wednesday May 13, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Camino Real Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Sessions, Communications for Water

10:30am CDT

Protected Rivers Explorer: Using Science & Data to Advance Meaningful Protection Initiatives

Wednesday May 13, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT

Zapata

This session is suited for anyone with interest in protection of rivers and the values they possess (e.g., drinking water, fish and wildlife, etc). The session will consist of a short presentation on the science behind the groundbreaking National Protected Rivers Assessment. Followed by Q&A, and a demo /interactive tutorial on how to use the Protected Rivers Explorer tool. Participants will leave...
See More →

Speakers

Mike Fiebig

Director, Southwest River Protection Program, American Rivers

Michael Fiebig directs the Southwest River Protection Program at American Rivers, leading efforts to protect and defend the most ecologically and culturally important rivers in the Southwest U.S. by partnering with Tribes, local communities, NGOs, land managers, researchers, creatives... Read More →

David Moryc

Senior Director, National River Protection Program, American Rivers

David provides overall leadership and strategic direction for the River Protection conservation program. David joined American Rivers in November 1999 in the Northwest Region where he helped shape policy on river restoration, protection and federal dam issues relating to salmon and... Read More →

John Zablocki

National River Protection Program Director, American Rivers

Personal story:
My work in river conservation started in 2005. I had a summer fellowship in a chemistry lab in Austria, and after I was done, I traveled all around the Balkans. I was absolutely mesmerized by the rivers I encountered and understood that many of them would be lost in the coming years... Read More →

Wednesday May 13, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Zapata Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Sessions, Healthy Rivers

10:30am CDT

Protecting Waters of the United States

Wednesday May 13, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT

Encino

Hear from national and state leaders about the recent changes to the “Waters of the United States” regulation (the “Polluted Waters Rule”), which defines which waters are protected under the Clean Water Act, and how advocates are advancing policy to protect their state’s waters in light of the current federal landscape. You will also learn about tools to help organizations interested in...
See More →

Speakers

Marie Campbell

Community Engagement Director, Harpeth Conservancy

Jennifer Western Hauser

Policy Liason, Wisconsin Wetlands Association

As Policy Liaison, Jennifer supports the development and growth of WWA’s policy programs. She serves as a resource for policymakers, partners, and agency staff. Jennifer has a combined fourteen years in state government, including five years working as Assistant Deputy Secretary... Read More →

Jim Murphy

Director of Legal Advocacy, National Wildlife Federation

Jim Murphy is the Director of Legal Advocacy for the National Wildlife Federation where he coordinates legal advocacy across the Federation’s national programs with a focus on renewable energy and clean water. Jim also directs a partnership between the Federation and Vermont Law... Read More →

Kristine Oblock

Protect Our Waters Senior Campaign Manager, Clean Water For All

Jennifer Peters

Water Policy Consultant

Jennifer has worked on a variety of water policy and watershed management issues for over a decade, in both nonprofit and government sectors. She has BS in Environmental Science from Humboldt State University and a MS in Environmental Policy from Bard College. Jennifer worked with... Read More →

Wednesday May 13, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Encino Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Sessions, Clean Water for All

10:30am CDT

The Rivers Speak Pajalate, Kinships in Coahuiltecan Lands

Wednesday May 13, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT

Villa

This session is well suited for a broad audience; anyone interested in Indigenous studies, language reclamation, history, geography, anthropology, or place-based pedagogy will benefit, while more advanced participants will also find a strong theoretical and methodological intervention. Participants will learn how Coahuiltecan toponyms can be read as archives of memory and kinship, and how naming...
See More →

Speakers

Anua Reyes

Wednesday May 13, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Villa Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Sessions, Healthy Rivers

12:00pm CDT

Lunch

Wednesday May 13, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm CDT

Navarro Ballroom

MENU:Field Greens Salad | Baby Tomato, English Cucumber, Red Onion, Carrots, Balsamic Vinaigrette (VE, GF, DF)Elote Corn Salad | Cotija Cheese, Scallions, Cilantro, Smoked Paprika, Sea Salt, Lime (V)Fajitas- Handmade Flour & Corn Tortillas- Black Bean and Hominy Picadillo (VE)-Chili Lime Seitan "Chicken" Tinga (VE)- Marinated Portobello and Zucchini (VE)- Sautéed Peppers and Onions, Jalapeno,...
See More →

Wednesday May 13, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm CDT
Navarro Ballroom Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Meals

1:30pm CDT

Diving Further Into the Clean Water Act - Part 2!

Wednesday May 13, 2026 1:30pm - 3:00pm CDT

Lantana

This session builds upon the tools and information that you learned about in “Learn the Tools of the Clean Water Act” and “Protecting Waters of the United States” sessions to further explore specific Clean Water Act tools. You’ll leave with a deeper knowledge of how to use parts of the Act and local resources to protect your waters. In particular, we will be exploring such tools as clean...
See More →

Speakers

Dr. Mila Marshall, PhD

Clean Water Advocate, Sierra Club Illinois Chapter

Mila works to mobilize and energize diverse networks across Illinois around clean water issues related to wastewater, agriculture and industry. She advocates for novel partnerships that protect the quality of streams, lakes, rivers, and Illinois tributaries for all. Furthermore she... Read More →

Val Z. Schull

Water and Ocean Program Director, GreenLatinos

Val Z. Schull (elle | they/them) is the Water Equity and Ocean Program Director at GreenLatinos. In this role, they advocate for policies that champion equitable access and conservation of both fresh- and salt-water systems. Val is a first generation Chicane raised in the Valle de... Read More →

Sarah Edwards

Legislative Counsel, Southern Environmental Law Center

Sarah is based in SELC’s D.C. office, where she works at the federal level to build and advance SELC’s resilience priorities. She also advocates for clean water protections and connects regional SELC work to federal developments.

Becky Hammer

Senior Attorney, Nature, Natural Resources Defense Council

Becky Hammer focuses on stormwater runoff, green infrastructure, low-impact development, water-pollution permitting issues, and climate change preparedness. Before joining NRDC in 2009, she interned at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Hammer is a graduate of Harvard College... Read More →

Rachel Conn

Deputy Director, Amigos Bravos

As Deputy Director of Amigos Bravos, Rachel advocates for strong and environmental just local, state, and federal water policy and provides hands-on support to New Mexico communities and groups working to protect their watersheds. She is a leader in the ongoing campaigns to hold Los... Read More →

Zach Hennessee

Staff Attorney, Southern Environmental Law Center

Wednesday May 13, 2026 1:30pm - 3:00pm CDT
Lantana Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Sessions, Clean Water for All

1:30pm CDT

From SRFs to Systems Change: Building Power in the South for Water Investment

Wednesday May 13, 2026 1:30pm - 3:00pm CDT

Sabino

As Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) funds sunset in FY2026, a critical question looms: what comes next? Base State Revolving Fund (SRF) programs were already overstretched before this historic $43 billion investment, and the nation’s water infrastructure financing gap continues to grow. Without coordinated action, we risk reverting to business as usual. From 2022–2025, PolicyLink partnered...
See More →

Speakers

Marie Campbell

Community Engagement Director, Harpeth Conservancy

Usman Mahmood

Senior Policy Analyst, Bayou City Waterkeeper

Iceman coming soon

Kennedy Moore

State Policy Coordinator &amp; EPA Urban Waters Ambassador, The Water Collaborative of Greater New Orleans

A local water advocate dedicated to actualizing water as a human right for the Southeast Louisiana area — specifically within the Lake Pontchartrain Watershed. My organization aims to draw arts and culture into water advocacy through partnerships and collaboration to create community-driven... Read More →

Portia Shepherd

Executive Director, Black Belt Women Rising

Yasmin Zaerpoor

Director of Water Equity and Climate Resilience, PolicyLink

Wednesday May 13, 2026 1:30pm - 3:00pm CDT
Sabino Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Sessions, Shifting Structures and Building Power

1:30pm CDT

Governance, Community Engagement, and Power: Threats and Opportunities in the Data Center Boom

Wednesday May 13, 2026 1:30pm - 3:00pm CDT

Encino

This hands-on learning lab will tackle thorny issues surrounding the data center boom. Come prepared to map out the players - from land speculators to big tech companies, local planners to state regulators, water utilities to the courts - and then start your roadmap to action. This session will build off of the first session on data centers, Data Center Deluge: What You Actually Need to Know, but...
See More →

Speakers

Ryan Anderson

Staff Attorney, Southern Environmental Law Center

Ben Hirsch

Co-Director of Organizing, Research, and Development, West Street Recovery

Ben has worked with WSR since its founding and helped to launch the Harvey home repair program, facilitates the Northeast Action Collective, and is deeply motivated to develop collective political strategy and collective models of leadership. He is a graduate of the LBJ school of... Read More →

Charles Miller

Policy Director, Alabama Rivers Alliance

Charles leads Alabama Rivers Alliance's policy work. He previously clerked or interned with Southern Environmental Law Center, Black Warrior Riverkeeper, American Rivers, and the EPA’s Office of Criminal Enforcement, Forensics, and Training. In 2021, he was recognized by River Network... Read More →

River Network DC Organizing Prez CRM pptx

Wednesday May 13, 2026 1:30pm - 3:00pm CDT
Encino Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Sessions, Emerging Leaders and Emerging Issues

1:30pm CDT

How Do Rivers Shape Our Worlds? A Pakahua Perspective

Wednesday May 13, 2026 1:30pm - 3:00pm CDT

Villa

This session examines the way our ancestors saw the rivers and the stories that shape our beliefs and continue our identity and existence. This session is for anyone. This session will touch on Indigenous Worldviews, Cosmologies, and Texas River Systems.

Speakers

Gary Perez

Matilde Torres-Romero

Wednesday May 13, 2026 1:30pm - 3:00pm CDT
Villa Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Sessions, Strong Orgs & Leaders

1:30pm CDT

Reimagining the EPA: Environmental Justice & Protection for the 21st Century

Wednesday May 13, 2026 1:30pm - 3:00pm CDT

Camino Real

Join us for a dynamic, hands-on workshop where YOU will help redesign the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to better serve all Americans. As part of PolicyLink’s Governing for All Agenda, Project Redesign is a bold effort to reimagine federal government agencies that truly serve everyone. In this highly interactive session, we invite water professionals, environmental justice advocates, and...
See More →

Speakers

Dimple Chaudhary

Senior Fellow, Federal Agency Redesign, PolicyLink & Former General Counsel for the EPA

Katy Lackey

Senior Associate, Water Equity & Climate Resilience, PolicyLink

Emily Simonson

Director, Project Redesign, PolicyLink

Wednesday May 13, 2026 1:30pm - 3:00pm CDT
Camino Real Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Sessions, Shifting Structures and Building Power

1:30pm CDT

Trees, Jobs, and Quality of Life: Practical Ways to Restore Rivers and Communities

Wednesday May 13, 2026 1:30pm - 3:00pm CDT

Olivares

Strengthening and investing in urban forestry is a practical, nature‑based solution to protect our clean water supply by slowing stormwater, filtering pollution, and reconnecting communities to healthy river systems, all while also improving public health and neighborhood livability. This session is designed for anyone interested in how trees can support stronger watersheds and create local,...
See More →

Speakers

Dawn Curtis

Executive Director, Grassroots Impact Education Fund, Inc

Yelitza Garcia

Youth Engagement Manager, American Forests

Tara Tran

Project Leader, One Truckee River Workforce, Reno Initiative for Shelter and Equality

Committed to environmental justice as a tool in creating a decolonial and liberatory future! My heart belongs to the Truckee River watershed. Talk to me about... native plants, birding, experimental music, pop culture, abolition, water protection, food... honestly everything I have... Read More →

Wednesday May 13, 2026 1:30pm - 3:00pm CDT
Olivares Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Sessions, Climate Resilient Communities

1:30pm CDT

What's Your Superpower? Change Agent Training with Britton Smith

Wednesday May 13, 2026 1:30pm - 3:00pm CDT

Zapata

This interactive, participatory workshop—Change Agent Training—is designed for anyone seeking to deepen their role in social and environmental impact, whether new to this work or more experienced. Participants will identify their inherent “superpower” roles within the social change ecosystem and explore how to apply them to their work in the water sector and beyond. Through joy-centered...
See More →

Speakers

Britton Smith

Facilitator/Artist/Advocate, Saved by Sting LLC

Britton Smith is a Tony Award–winning artist, activist, and cultural strategist working at the intersection of storytelling, music, and social impact. He is the Co-Founder and President of the Broadway Advocacy Coalition, a national organization uniting artists, legal experts, and... Read More →

Wednesday May 13, 2026 1:30pm - 3:00pm CDT
Zapata Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Sessions, Strong Orgs & Leaders

3:15pm CDT

Brown meets Blue: Reimagining Brownfields for Water Resilience

Wednesday May 13, 2026 3:15pm - 4:00pm CDT

Zapata

Brownfields—abandoned or underutilized sites suspected of contamination—are visible reminders of unresolved environmental challenges in historically under-resourced communities, where residents are also often navigating issues such as flooding and water pollution. This introductory session explores how transforming brownfields can support healthier watersheds and serve as a strategy for...
See More →

Speakers

Ozzy Meneses, AICP

Director of Community Projects and Partnerships, Groundwork San Diego - Chollas Creek

Ozzy Meneses, AICP, brings over 16 years of experience in infrastructure, environmental justice, and community-driven planning across public, nonprofit, and private sectors. With a background in engineering and planning, he spent eight years at the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System... Read More →

Jalisa Gilmore, MPH

Senior Manager of Health and Land Use Programs, Groundwork USA

Jalisa Gilmore is the Senior Manager of Health and Land Use Programs at Groundwork USA, responsible for supporting the implementation of community-centered strategies for building healthier neighborhoods in communities across the country. Jalisa utilizes her background in public health... Read More →

Ari Snow

City Planner, City of Sheridan

Ari Snow is a land use planner with the City of Sheridan, Colorado, where he has served for the past five years. During his tenure, he has played a key role in launching the City’s first tree planting program, advancing Sheridan’s commitment to sustainability and urban resilience... Read More →

Jessica Swindon

Water Program Director, Groundwork Denver

Jessica Swindon is a water protector, environmental scientist, and community connector focused on implementing rainwater harvesting practices and water conservation in our most vulnerable spaces. She has studied environmental science for her entire career but has recently started... Read More →

Alex Tiscareño

Sheridan Inspire Director, Sheridan Inspire & Groundwork Denver

Alex Tiscareño serves as the Program Director for the Sheridan Inspire Initiative at Groundwork Denver, where he leads a multi-partner coalition focused on connecting youth and families to the outdoors. His work centers on building equitable access to nature through community-driven... Read More →

Wednesday May 13, 2026 3:15pm - 4:00pm CDT
Zapata Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Sessions, Climate Resilient Communities

3:15pm CDT

Clean Water Advocates Unite: Let's work together to protect our waters!

Wednesday May 13, 2026 3:15pm - 4:00pm CDT

Olivares

Join us for shared learning and a guided conversation about the challenges affecting our waters, a look at broader community needs, and opportunities to make change for better water protections and advocacy across the country. This is part of a broader initiative of the Clean Water for All Coalition to listen, learn from, engage, and support on-the-ground leaders to work together on a...
See More →

Speakers

Jenifer Collins

Coalition Director, Clean Water for All Coalition

Julian Gonzalez

Senior Legislative Counsel, Earthjustice

Julian Gonzalez serves as Earthjustice’s water policy lobbyist as a part of the Healthy Communities team in Washington, D.C. Before joining Earthjustice, Julian worked for GreenLatinos, handling water and oceans policy development, advocacy, and outreach to help ensure Latinx perspectives... Read More →

Martin Castro

Watershed Science Director, Rio Grande International Study Center

As the Watershed Science Director for the Rio Grande International Study Center, Martin has worked to develop RGISC’s emerging Water Security Program by assembling information and scientific research that identifies and prioritizes necessary actions to restore the surrounding watershed... Read More →

Ellen Kohler, JD, MS

Director of Applied Research and Policy, The Water Center at the University of Pennsylvania

Wednesday May 13, 2026 3:15pm - 4:00pm CDT
Olivares Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Sessions, Clean Water for All

3:15pm CDT

Including Indigenous Worldviews in Texas Water Work: A Two-eyed Perspective

Wednesday May 13, 2026 3:15pm - 4:00pm CDT

Lantana

This session will identify mainstream practices of the water/land work landscape in Texas through an Intertribal lens along with gaps in understandings, approaches, and responsibilities. The session will then provide some initial foundations to begin to walk with both eyes open. It is open to all and is an introductory topic.

Speakers

Sabrina Chapa

Founder & Executive Director, Ties to la Tierra

Sabrina is a Coahuiltecan and Mexica, born and raised in South Texas, on traditional Karankawa and Coahuiltecan lands, and from the Gulf Coastal hometown of Corpus Christi. She is executive director of Ties To La Tierra, an ecological stewardship organization that focuses on land... Read More →

Wednesday May 13, 2026 3:15pm - 4:00pm CDT
Lantana Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Sessions, Shifting Structures and Building Power

3:15pm CDT

Partnerships, Patience, and Participation - A Water Affordability Panel from Three Expert Perspectives

Wednesday May 13, 2026 3:15pm - 4:00pm CDT

Sabino

Bringing together perspectives from Illinois, Georgia, and Texas, this panel will delve into different approaches to achieve water affordability. Anna-Lisa Gonzales Castle, Water Policy Director at Elevate, Greg Wukasch, External Affairs Manager at San Antonio Water System, and David Wheaton, Assistant Policy Counsel at Legal Defense Fund will lift up what’s working (and not) and provide...
See More →

Speakers

Anna-Lisa Gonzales Castle

Policy Director, Water, Elevate

At Elevate, Anna-Lisa supports water affordability, access, and safe water infrastructure projects in Illinois, and partners to advance equitable water policy solutions at the local, state, and federal levels. Prior to her current role, she led Great Lakes protection efforts, founded... Read More →

Erin Kanzig

Drinking Water Program Director, River Network

Erin leads River Network's efforts to build a future where everyone has access to safe, clean, affordable, and reliable drinking water. She coordinates, trains, and facilitates national, regional, and cohort-based groups to build up advocacy capacity related to water infrastructure... Read More →

David Wheaton

Assistant Policy Counsel, Legal Defense Fund

Greg Wukasch

External Affairs Manager, San Antonio Water System

Since 1998, Greg Wukasch has worked in the External Affairs Department with the San Antonio Water System, beginning as an Education Coordinator and now as the External Affairs Manager including overseeing Uplift-San Antonio Water System’s bill assistance program. Greg really considers... Read More →

River Rally Intro Water Affordability pdf

Wednesday May 13, 2026 3:15pm - 4:00pm CDT
Sabino Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Sessions, Shifting Structures and Building Power

3:15pm CDT

Reimagining the EPA: Environmental Justice & Protection for the 21st Century

Wednesday May 13, 2026 3:15pm - 4:00pm CDT

Camino Real

Speakers

Dimple Chaudhary

Senior Fellow, Federal Agency Redesign, PolicyLink & Former General Counsel for the EPA

Katy Lackey

Senior Associate, Water Equity & Climate Resilience, PolicyLink

Emily Simonson

Director, Project Redesign, PolicyLink

Wednesday May 13, 2026 3:15pm - 4:00pm CDT
Camino Real Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Sessions, Shifting Structures and Building Power

3:15pm CDT

Resilience on the River: Lessons from Urban Restoration and the Community That Tended It

Wednesday May 13, 2026 3:15pm - 4:00pm CDT

Villa

Join the 2026 Emerging Leader, Kaiya Giuliano-Monroy, to learn about her work at the intersection of river restoration and individuals experiencing homelessness. This session will explore restoration efforts along the leveed section of the San Lorenzo River in Santa Cruz, California. It will focus on "River Stewards", a program that engaged people experiencing homelessness in restoration....
See More →

Speakers

Kaiya Giuliano-Monroy

Wednesday May 13, 2026 3:15pm - 4:00pm CDT
Villa Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Sessions, Emerging Leaders and Emerging Issues

3:15pm CDT

Zine Making 101: Telling the Stories of Our Rivers

Wednesday May 13, 2026 3:15pm - 4:00pm CDT

Encino

Get into the zine of community storytelling! Art and storytelling are powerful tools that can help us connect more deeply with our communities and build stronger environmental and place-based connections. In this session, Amanda Thackray, Lower Passaic River UWFP Artist in Residence, will lead participants in zine-making to demonstrate low-tech and accessible ways of working with community and to...
See More →

Speakers

Elizabeth Balladares

Community Stewardship Manager/Lower Passaic Urban Waters Ambassador, Hudson River Foundation/ NY-NJ Harbor & Estuary Program

Liz Balladares serves as the Community Stewardship Manager for the NY-NJ Harbor & Estuary Program and Hudson River Foundation where her work focuses on supporting local stewardship and encouraging the use of community knowledge in management decisions. Liz is also the ambassador for... Read More →

Christina Carrero

Community Planning Associate/ Bronx and Harlem Rivers Urban Waters Ambassador, Hudson River Foundation/ NY-NJ Harbor & Estuary Program

Christina Carrero (NY-NJ Harbor & Estuary Program and Hudson River Foundation) serves as the Urban Waters Ambassador for the Bronx and Harlem Rivers location, where she works to connect Bronx and Harlem River communities with local, state, and federal resources for advancing water-focused... Read More →

Amanda Thackray

Artist

Amanda Thackray is a multidisciplinary ecofeminist artist-educator based in Newark, NJ, crafting intricate artwork exploring the intersections between nature, industry, and human experience. She is the recipient of Creative Catalyst Fund Fellowships, a Puffin Foundation Grant for... Read More →

Wednesday May 13, 2026 3:15pm - 4:00pm CDT
Encino Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Sessions, Communications for Water

4:15pm CDT

Beyond the Climate Disaster: Building Recovery That Doesn't Leave Communities Behind

Wednesday May 13, 2026 4:15pm - 5:00pm CDT

Olivares

Disasters are already devastating to frontline and historically disinvested communities, but it’s the disaster response and recovery process that can further perpetuate harm to residents by contributing to displacement pressures. In this session, Jackie Rogers (The Garden by the Bay) will share her experience living in Edgemere, Queens (NYC), where residents are experiencing displacement and...
See More →

Speakers

Elizabeth Balladares

Community Stewardship Manager/Lower Passaic Urban Waters Ambassador, Hudson River Foundation/ NY-NJ Harbor & Estuary Program

Gloria McNair

Chief Community Officer, Groundwork Jacksonville

Gloria McNair joined GWJax in 2018 and leads the organization's community outreach efforts. Gloria is responsible for engaging citizens in visioning and advocating for their community, helping to ensure residents have input in shaping GWJax projects including McCoys Creek, Hogans... Read More →

Jacqueline (Jackie) Rogers

President, The Garden by the Bay

Jackie has been the President of The Garden by the Bay since 2021. She has traded her corporate organizational skills into lending her expertise to her community as a community advocate, civic leader, grant writer, and place maker. She believes in building connectors within the community... Read More →

Wednesday May 13, 2026 4:15pm - 5:00pm CDT
Olivares Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Sessions, Climate Resilient Communities

4:15pm CDT

Building Blocks of Trust: Proven Strategies to Build Trust Between Local Water Organizations and Water Utilities

Wednesday May 13, 2026 4:15pm - 5:00pm CDT

Encino

Strong and authentic relationships between community groups and water utilities, built on trust, are essential to ensure our communities have access to clean, safe, affordable, and reliable drinking water; are resilient to floods and droughts; and our rivers are healthy. This interactive session will introduce participants to the “Building Blocks of Trust” and strategies you can use to build...
See More →

Speakers

April Ingle

Interim CEO, River Network

April Ingle, River Network’s Interim CEO, has worked for over 25 years leading organizations, collaborating with partners to advance clean water policy, and supporting individuals and organizations who are working together to protect and strengthen their communities and the places... Read More →

Julianna Roseo

Water Policy Associate, WaterNow Alliance

Julianna Roseo recently joined WaterNow Alliance as our Water Policy Associate based in Philadelphia. After receiving her Bachelor’s in Environmental Studies & GIS Julianna graduated from Temple University with a Master’s in Public Policy. During her studies she had a focus on... Read More →

Wednesday May 13, 2026 4:15pm - 5:00pm CDT
Encino Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Sessions, Strong Orgs & Leaders

4:15pm CDT

Co-piloting your organization during turbulent times

Wednesday May 13, 2026 4:15pm - 5:00pm CDT

Villa

Organizational leadership should evolve as the challenges facing them continue to change. In this session, we'll explore how shared leadership models, whether it's co-Executive Directors or a more established distribution of responsibility between the E.D and the Board chair may work within your organization. Together, we'll develop a informal guide that can facilitate the planning or discussion...
See More →

Speakers

Brenna Goggin

Director of Leadership Development, River Network

Co Piloting your organization No Notes pdf

Wednesday May 13, 2026 4:15pm - 5:00pm CDT
Villa Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Sessions, Strong Orgs & Leaders

4:15pm CDT

HAPPY HOUR: Natural Floodplains Function Alliance

Wednesday May 13, 2026 4:15pm - 5:00pm CDT

Zocca

Want to connect with other folks committed to safeguarding and restoring floodplains and wetlands? Join the Natural Floodplains Alliance Happy Hour! The Natural Floodplains Alliance is a national network of over 2,500 other individuals, nonprofits, and agencies dedicated to the protection and preservation of the natural functions of floodplains. A number of network members will be present...
See More →

Speakers

Brian

American Rivers

Wednesday May 13, 2026 4:15pm - 5:00pm CDT
Zocca Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Sessions, Healthy Rivers

4:15pm CDT

Rising with the River: Building Leadership Pathways and Support for Emerging Leaders of Color

Wednesday May 13, 2026 4:15pm - 5:00pm CDT

Lantana

This session is best suited for emerging and early career professionals of color, especially those seeking support and connection. Participants will explore ways to build mentorship relationships, strengthen peer networks, and reflect on their leadership goals. The session will also introduce practical approaches to recognizing burnout and incorporating self-care into their work. Participants will...
See More →

Speakers

Dr. Angela Chalk, DHA, GIP

Executive Director, Healthy Community Services, Healthy Community Services

Biography Chalk
Dr. Chalk is a fourth-generation resident of New Orleans' 7th Ward and the Founder and Executive Director of Healthy Community Services, a non-profit focused on public health issues in the community. She is a former President of the Louisiana Public Health Association and has served... Read More →

Felice E. Green

Senior Director of Programming, Milwaukee Water Commons

Felice Green is the Senior Director of Programming at Milwaukee Water Commons. She has years of nonprofit experience serving in various leadership positions at the intersections of environmental justice, community partnerships, public health, civic engagement, and advocacy in marginalized... Read More →

Wednesday May 13, 2026 4:15pm - 5:00pm CDT
Lantana Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Sessions, Strong Orgs & Leaders

4:15pm CDT

Start Making Sense: EPIC’s New DWSRF Funding Tracker

Wednesday May 13, 2026 4:15pm - 5:00pm CDT

Sabino

The Environmental Policy Innovation Center (EPIC) recently launched its Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) Funding Tracker, a new resource that analyzes investment decisions at the Intended Use Plan (IUP) stage across 15 focus states. Through state-specific Findings & Recommendations reports and cross-state syntheses, this work provides data-driven insights for policymakers, advocates,...
See More →

Speakers

Danielle Goshen

Senior Policy Analyst, Water Infrastructure, Environmental Policy Innovation Center (EPIC)

Danielle is a Senior Policy Analyst at EPIC and serves as the State Revolving Fund (SRF) Initiative Lead. Prior to joining EPIC in 2024, Danielle worked on National Wildlife Federation's Texas Coast and Water Program as their Policy Specialist/Counsel where she collaborated with government... Read More →

Wednesday May 13, 2026 4:15pm - 5:00pm CDT
Sabino Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Sessions, Shifting Structures and Building Power

4:15pm CDT

Stewards of Tomorrow: Indigenous-Led Water Protections in the Southeast

Wednesday May 13, 2026 4:15pm - 5:00pm CDT

Zapata

Indigenous communities are experts in building resilience and have unique perspectives to share on adapting to environmental change and protecting their waters. This panel briefly outlines climate threats faced by Indigenous communities in the Southeast before highlighting some of the community-centered responses to these threats that focus on preserving land, language, and culture for future...
See More →

Speakers

Kurt Naquin

PH.D. Candidate, School of Natural Resources at North Carolina State University

Giancarlo Richardson

Cartographer, PNEP Tribal Coastal Resilience Connections Team

Beth Roach

National Water Conservation Manager, Sierra Club

Wednesday May 13, 2026 4:15pm - 5:00pm CDT
Zapata Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Sessions, Clean Water for All

4:15pm CDT

Unpacking “Capacity Building”: The What, Why, and How of our Sector’s Most Overused Phrase

Wednesday May 13, 2026 4:15pm - 5:00pm CDT

Camino Real

"This session will dive deep into how the Hudson River Watershed Alliance (HRWA) has worked to understand constituent watershed groups’ needs and develop targeted programing to support their critical, but often under-resourced, mission-driven work. Through strategic partnerships, thoughtful needs assessments, and creative program development, HRWA has deployed a multi-pronged approach to...
See More →

Speakers

Hannah Mico

Resilient Communities Manager, River Network

Emily Vail

Executive Director, Hudson River Watershed Alliance

Emily Vail has been the executive director of the Hudson River Watershed Alliance since 2019. She previously served for eight years as the Watershed Outreach Specialist for the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation’s Hudson River Estuary Program, in collaboration with the... Read More →

Wednesday May 13, 2026 4:15pm - 5:00pm CDT
Camino Real Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Sessions, Strong Orgs & Leaders

6:00pm CDT

River Rally Celebration [bus travel provided]

Wednesday May 13, 2026 6:00pm - 9:00pm CDT

Confluence Park

Celebrate the week's work and connections at the riverside Confluence Park, one of San Antonio's most beloved gathering spaces. We will celebrate our 2026 River Heroes, Legacy Awardees, and Emerging Leader. You can also expect dinner, music from DJ MexStep, and bus transportation to and from the Westin, Riverwalk.Special thanks to Presenting Sponsor:MENU: Salads:Organic Eden Salad: Baby Greens,...
See More →

Wednesday May 13, 2026 6:00pm - 9:00pm CDT
Confluence Park 310 W Mitchell St, San Antonio, TX 78204, USA

Off-Site Events

7:30am CDT

Breakfast

Thursday May 14, 2026 7:30am - 9:00am CDT

Navarro Ballroom

MENU:Orange and Cranberry JuiceSliced Seasonal Fruits with Berry Garnish (VE, GF, DF)Freshly Baked Morning Pastries and MuffinsFruit Preserves, ButterAssorted Breakfast Cereals with Bananas, 2% and Skim Milk(Soy, Oat, and Almond Milk on Request)Individual Flavored Greek Yogurts (GF)Scrambled Whole Eggs (GF)Shredded Cheddar and Smoked Tomato Salsa (on Side)Plant Based Bacon (VE)Farro and Barley...
See More →

Thursday May 14, 2026 7:30am - 9:00am CDT
Navarro Ballroom Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Meals

9:00am CDT

Come Build and Connect the Water Movement Community Convening AM

Thursday May 14, 2026 9:00am - 12:00pm CDT

Camino Real

Join advocates, organizers, and leaders from across the country for a day long, highly interactive national convening focused on unlocking the full power of the water movement. Together we’ll map what’s already happening at the local, state, and federal levels; surface gaps and opportunities; and imagine and co-create a more connected, better-resourced movement for clean and healthy water for...
See More →

Thursday May 14, 2026 9:00am - 12:00pm CDT
Camino Real Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Deep Dives

9:00am CDT

Funder-only Community Convening - AM (Invite required)

Thursday May 14, 2026 9:00am - 12:00pm CDT

Encino

By invitation only. As we joined alongside field partners throughout the week, Thursday offers funders across connected networks a shared space to reflect on what surfaced at River Rally and consider how philanthropy can respond. This day is designed to build on that broader context by creating space to process what we heard, listen to one another, strengthen relationships, and explore where...
See More →

Thursday May 14, 2026 9:00am - 12:00pm CDT
Encino Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Deep Dives, By Invitation Only

9:00am CDT

State-Revolving Fund State Advocates Forum Community Convening

Thursday May 14, 2026 9:00am - 12:00pm CDT

Villa

The SRF State Advocates Forum invites Forum members and any River Rally attendees interested in State Revolving Fund (SRF) or other water infrastructure investment advocacy to join this Community Convening. Fostering in-person connections and building momentum across our national community of practice, the Community Convening will include small group activities to reflect on state SRF advocacy...
See More →

Thursday May 14, 2026 9:00am - 12:00pm CDT
Villa Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Deep Dives, Shifting Structures and Building Power

9:00am CDT

The Social Assessment Toolkit: Understanding how people use and value our waterways

Thursday May 14, 2026 9:00am - 12:00pm CDT

Olivares

Guardians of Flushing Bay and the NYC Urban Field Station will present the social assessment toolkit, a participatory research approach for studying how people use and value blue and green spaces, and showcase its application to Flushing Waterways. This workshop is for everyone: we will provide introductory information about the toolkit and its application, and an outdoor, interactive social...
See More →

Speakers

Lindsay K. Campbell

Lindsay K. Campbell is a human geographer and an affiliated faculty member with the City University of New York - Department of Earth and Environmental Science who has spent the last 20 years working on urban social-ecological systems and environmental stewardship in New York City... Read More →

Rebecca Pryor

Executive Director, Guardians of Flushing Bay

Rebecca Pryor (she/they) is the Executive Director for Guardians of Flushing Bay, where they steward a grassroots vision of a healthy, equitably accessible Flushing Waterways cared for by a network of local residents. Prior to GoFB, Rebecca served as the Civics and Community Stewardship... Read More →

Thursday May 14, 2026 9:00am - 12:00pm CDT
Olivares Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Deep Dives, Climate Resilient Communities

9:00am CDT

Water Equity and Climate Resilience (WECR) Caucus Community Convening (Caucus members only)

Thursday May 14, 2026 9:00am - 12:00pm CDT

Zapata

The Water Equity and Climate Resilience (WECR) Caucus is convening its members to strategize and reflect on our shared policy priorities and advocacy strategy. The WECR Caucus (climatewaterequity.org), anchored by PolicyLink, is a national network of over 80 organizations centering low-income communities and frontline communities of color in working to achieve water equity and climate...
See More →

Thursday May 14, 2026 9:00am - 12:00pm CDT
Zapata Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Deep Dives, By Invitation Only

12:00pm CDT

Lunch

Thursday May 14, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm CDT

Navarro Ballroom

MENU: Crisp Caesar Salad | Romaine Hearts, Shaved Parmesan, Focaccia Croutons, Caesar Dressing (V)Caprese Salad | Arugula, Fresh Mozzarella, Heirloom Tomato, Basil, Balsamic Vinaigrette (GF, V)Chianti Braised Tempeh Bistecca ala Florentine (VE)Grilled Eggplant with Lentil Ragu (VE)Edamame, Cauliflower , and Kale Alfredo (V)Baked Ziti | Zucchini and Mushroom Bolognese (V)Seasonal Fresh...
See More →

Thursday May 14, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm CDT
Navarro Ballroom Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Meals

1:00pm CDT

"Harm in the Water" Film Screening & Power Building Workshop

Thursday May 14, 2026 1:00pm - 4:00pm CDT

Olivares

Harm in the Water (90 minutes) is a powerful documentary that examines the devastating impact of industrial water pollution on Black communities along the Mississippi River. Director Kendall Moore takes viewers on a journey through affected communities, highlighting both the struggles and resilience of residents fighting for clean water and environmental justice. The documentary combines...
See More →

Thursday May 14, 2026 1:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Olivares Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Deep Dives, Shifting Structures and Building Power

1:00pm CDT

Come Build and Connect the Water Movement Community Convening PM

Thursday May 14, 2026 1:00pm - 4:00pm CDT

Camino Real

Speakers

InPartnership Consulting

Thursday May 14, 2026 1:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Camino Real Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Deep Dives

1:00pm CDT

Funder-only Community Convening - PM (Invite required)

Thursday May 14, 2026 1:00pm - 4:00pm CDT

Encino

Thursday May 14, 2026 1:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Encino Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Deep Dives, By Invitation Only

1:00pm CDT

Redefining the Water Movement in Texas: The Border Wall Crisis on the Rio Grande

Thursday May 14, 2026 1:00pm - 4:00pm CDT

Villa

From Big Bend to Brownsville, communities along the Rio Grande in Texas are confronting a rapidly escalating crisis as the Department of Homeland Security accelerates its plans to construct border wall and buoy barrier infrastructure along the Rio Grande, placing riverfront neighborhoods, public lands, critical infrastructure, and the river’s ecological integrity at immediate risk. This session...
See More →

Speakers

Tricia Cortez

Executive Director, Rio Grande International Study Center

Jessie Fuentes

Activist, Eagle Pass Border Coalition

Elsa Hull

Riverfront Landowner, Riverfront Landowner

Dr. Mark Tompkins

Principal Engineering Geomorphologist, FlowWest

I’m the executive director of IEI, a new non-profit dedicated to bringing the best available data technology to water management and teaching the next generation to use it. I’m also the founder of FlowWest, a unique consulting firm delivering engineering, science, planning, and... Read More →

Thursday May 14, 2026 1:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Villa Westin Riverwalk Wan Antonio: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Deep Dives, Shifting Structures and Building Power

7:00pm CDT

The River and The Wall Film Screening & Border Wall Discussion

Thursday May 14, 2026 7:00pm - 10:00pm CDT

Confluence Park

Join the National Parks Conservation Association, Big Bend Conservation Alliance, Keep Big Bend Wild, Latino Outdoors, San Antonio River Aid, and the San Antonio River Foundation for an evening panel discussion and outdoor screening of The River and the Wall at Confluence Park! Register.

Thursday May 14, 2026 7:00pm - 10:00pm CDT
Confluence Park 310 W Mitchell St, San Antonio, TX 78204, USA

Off-Site Events