8th Conference on Natural Channel Systems

Hosted by the Natural Channels Initiative, June 8-10, 2026, at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario.

Days

Hours

Minutes

Natural Channel Systems

2026 Conference Theme


The 8th Conference on Natural Channel Systems will be held at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario from June 8-10, 2026. The focus of the conference is:

Resilient River Corridors: Navigating Challenges, Opportunities and Change

The natural channel system encompasses more than just the channel, focusing on the river corridor shifts the thinking to include the area of land surrounding the channel that provides the floodplain and riparian functions necessary to maintain a naturally stable and healthy river corridor.

At this conference we will look back at what factors have affected and changed our river corridors since the conference was first held 30 years ago. We will also explore the new challenges and opportunities presented to the natural channel system practitioners. Our focus will be on the importance of addressing the river corridor in our watercourse management practices. The conference will include keynotes, concurrent sessions, workshops/training sessions/tours, a young professionals event, and a banquet.

Co-Chairs’ Message


We are absolutely thrilled and deeply honored to be co-chairing the 2026 Natural Channels Conference! This event has always held a special place in our hearts. Over the years, attending this conference has not only significantly inspired and motivated our careers, but it’s also been instrumental in forging important networking connections.

Date & Location

The 8th Conference on Natural Channel Systems will be held on June 8-10, 2026 at McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario in the Peter George Centre for Living and Learning building.

Save the Date

What to Watch For / Coming Soon

Sponsorship and Exhibitor Opportunities

Coming Soon

Partner with us: Build connections and showcase your brand to a targeted, engaged audience — sponsorship opportunities coming soon.

Our sponsorship and exhibiting prospectus will be ready soon, offering a chance to partner with us and gain visibility among a targeted audience.

Stay tuned for more sponsorship and exhibitor details early this summer.

Accommodations

This fall

We’ve secured a variety of on-site residence accommodations at McMaster University, and are arranging a nearby hotel with a discounted rates for attendees.

Full accommodations details will be available this fall.

Training Opportunities

This fall

Our committee is hard at work preparing a range of valuable training opportunities and hands-on workshops for Sunday, June 7, 2026. Whether you’re looking to enhance your skills or dive into new areas of knowledge, we’ve got something for everyone.

Stay tuned for detailed session topics, expert facilitators, and registration information coming this fall.

Call for Sessions & Abstracts

This fall and winter

Your ideas matter! Submit your session ideas and abstract and join the conversation.

Will you be ready to share your research, insights, or innovations with a dynamic community of professionals and thought leaders?

We will be inviting submissions for session ideas this fall, followed by call for abstracts this winter.

Keynote Announcements

Stay Tuned

Our Keynote Speaker lineup will be announced starting this fall. Stay tuned for updates.

Looking to Stay up to Date with Conference News?

Join our mailing list to receive email updates related to the Natural Channel Systems Conference and stay up-to-date on the latest news and events of the Natural Channels Initiative.

News & Announcements

May 2025 – Website for the 8th Conference on Natural Channel Systems launched