2026 Forum Program

Explore the Program

After a record number of submissions, the 7th National Adaptation Forum will feature a dynamic lineup of sessions, field trips, and networking opportunities. Explore the program to start planning your time in Pittsburgh and discover the conversations and connections waiting for you at the Forum. Schedule details may change as the program is finalized, and a downloadable PDF version will be available shortly before the event. The schedule linked below will always reflect the most up-to-date information on sessions and speakers.

Browse the Full Schedule

What to expect at the 2026 Forum

  • An opening plenary on climate mobility featuring leading experts
  • Curated special sessions on emerging topics in climate adaptation
  • Concurrent sessions showcasing adaptation research and practice
  • Multiple networking opportunities, like the Margaret A. Davidson Networking Reception & Poster Session
  • A dedicated app to help you navigate the Forum program and plan your schedule

Please join us for the Forum Welcome & Plenary:

Migration as Adaptation: The Impact of Climate Mobility on Cities and Ecosystems

Tuesday, May 12, 8:45 AM – 11:00 AM | Ballroom ABC

Climate mobility is becoming an increasingly important part of climate adaptation planning. This plenary explores how climate-driven migration affects cities, ecosystems, and communities, and what it means for practitioners working across sectors. Experts will discuss the social, political, and environmental forces shaping climate mobility and share insights on resilience planning, policy, and community engagement. Learn more here.

The National Adaptation Forum team developed special session topics to prioritize specific areas that are becoming increasingly imperative for the growth of the adaptation field.

There are 10 Special Session topic areas:

  • Is Adaptation Delivering? Monitoring & Evaluation to Advance the Field
  • Addressing the Money Problem: Funding Adaptation
  • Building Climate-Resilient Health Systems Through Adaptation
  • Where Do We Go From Here? The Politics and People of Managed Retreat
  • Catalyzing Behavior Change For Climate Adaptation
  • Bridging Governance for Climate Adaptation: Tribal, State, and Local Collaboration in a Changing Political Climate
  • Adaptation From the Land to the Sea: Addressing Unique Challenges for Rural & Island Communities
  • Protecting the Future of Ecosystems and Biodiversity Through Adaptation
  • Equipping Ourselves For the Path Ahead Through Practical Training and Workforce Development 
  • Navigating the Muddy Waters of a Federal Maelstrom 

Click here to read the full descriptions and more.

Schedule at a Glance

Exact times and activities are subject to change.

2026 National Adaptation Forum – Schedule at a Glance

2026 National Adaptation Forum – Schedule at a Glance

Monday, May 11
Tuesday, May 12
Wednesday, May 13
Thursday, May 14

Whova

Whova will be the main source of the most up-to-date schedule information, keeping you in the loop with real-time announcements and enhancing your ability to connect with others. Access to the full Whova site or app will open the first week of May. In the meantime, you can explore the full schedule below.

Full Schedule

Field Trips

Attendees can sign up for field trip opportunities while registering for the Forum. Field trip capacity is limited, so space will be assigned on a first-come basis.

Learn More about the 2026 Forum Field Trips

Content on this page

Explore the Program
Schedule at a Glance
Whova
Field Trips