Inland Northwest: Regional Perspectives

The Environmental Symposium explores the environmental, natural resource, and infrastructure issues that define the Inland Northwest. Each year, the Symposium examines a different regional theme, bringing together policymakers, regulators, tribal governments, industry leaders, local governments, scientists, and environmental professionals to share perspectives on the policies, projects, and partnerships shaping the region.

The Symposium began with a focus on water—the Inland Northwest’s most vital and increasingly stressed resource. Today, the program continues to evolve, with each year’s theme reflecting the emerging environmental, natural resource, and infrastructure challenges affecting the region. By examining issues through multiple perspectives and across jurisdictional boundaries, the Symposium provides a forum for informed discussion, practical insights, and regional collaboration.

2026 Theme: Natural Resources & Cross-Boundary Challenges

This year’s program explores the opportunities and challenges of managing natural resources across state, tribal, federal, provincial, and international boundaries. Sessions examine regional leadership, permitting and climate policy, cross-boundary water and agricultural issues, watershed restoration, infrastructure project delivery, and emerging natural resource challenges. Through keynote presentations, panel discussions, and case studies, participants will gain practical insights into the policies, partnerships, and decisions shaping the future of the Inland Northwest.

Who Should Attend?

  • Local, state, tribal, and federal government representatives
  • Environmental and natural resource professionals
  • Environmental consultants, engineers, and technical experts
  • Industry and infrastructure leaders
  • Water and resource managers
  • Attorneys and policy advisors
  • Scientists and researchers
  • Community and nonprofit leaders

2026 Planning Committee

NameTitleCompany
Derek HolomSenior HydrogeologistGeosyntec Consultants
Lindsay ChutasEnvironmental ScientistHaley & Aldrich
John HaneyPrincipal Environmental EngineerHaley & Aldrich
Murray FeldmanPartnerHolland & Hart LLP
Katy RikerAssociateHolland & Hart LLP
Matt HouserHolt Services, Inc.Business Development Manager
Gregg MindtExecutive DirectorNEBC
Ryen GodwinShareholderSchwabe
Scott DuzanStrategic Pursuits LeaderStantec
Wade FosterEnvironmental AttorneyStoel Rives
Matthew SzelagIdaho Operations OfficeUS Environmental Protection Agency
TJ MothersbaughDirector of SalesWaterTectonics
Derek ForsethVice President, StrategyWSB
Sarah WeppnerEnvironmental Division ManagerWSB

Presenter

Northwest Environmental Business Council presents the Oregon Brownfields Conference & Awards Luncheon

The Northwest Environmental Business Council (NEBC) is the leading business association dedicated to advancing solutions that protect, restore, and sustain the natural and built environment throughout the Pacific Northwest. NEBC’s mission is to represent businesses working in the environmental sector while fostering collaboration among regulated industries, environmental professionals, government agencies, tribes, municipalities, nonprofit organizations, and academic institutions. As the region’s premier convener of the environmental sector, NEBC brings together leaders and decision-makers through conferences, workshops, networking events, and educational programs. NEBC serves as a trusted forum where diverse stakeholders exchange ideas, build partnerships, share best practices, and advance solutions that strengthen the industry and support the long-term health, resilience, and prosperity of the Northwest.

Contacts

Conference Organizer

Northwest Environmental Business Council
6 Centerpointe Drive, Suite 340
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
T: 503-227-6361
Email: info@nebc.org

Event Producer

Jennifer Starr
Operations & Events Manager
503-227-6361
jennifer@nebc.org

Sponsors & Exhibitors

Rachel Johnson
Business Development Manager
503-914-6117
rachel@nebc.org

Program

Natalie Werst
Program Manager
503-914-5563
natalie@nebc.org

Strategic Partnerships

Gregg Mindt
Executive Director
503-703-2100
gregg@nebc.org