The Urban Forest Symposium mission is to balance and strengthen eco-cultural systems of urban forests, lands, waters, and living relations by interweaving Indigenous lifeways with scientific approaches, bridging understanding for environmental equity and access.

This is accomplished through a yearly gathering of urban forestry and Tribal community, non-profit, and governmental voices to share knowledge, solutions, and practicum activities, all while celebrating connection to lands through Indigenous songs, foods, and artistry.

In 2026, challenges facing our eco-cultural environments have become strikingly clear. Urban deforestation, four years of drought, and worsening smoke seasons are indicators of the work yet to be done. However, the societal impacts of environmental decline, including depression, mistrust of community, and pessimism about the future, are often overlooked. As leaders, solutions are within reach only if we rise together with courage and fortitude to realize them. This year’s symposium will focus on cultivating intersections between forest lands, urban ecosystems, peoples, policy, place, and wellness. Learnings will highlight local leaders across generations, their growth from successes and setbacks alike, and how this wealth of knowledge and experience can be applied to the challenges facing our communities now.

Join us as we discover ways to inspire collective vision, resilient partnerships, empowered leaders, and diverse solutions for equitable future pathways.

View our archive of past years’ symposia here.

Art by Speakthunder Berry, Puyallup, Warm Springs, Sauk -Suiattle, Nakota