Annual Conference 2026: Grounded in Data

Connecting evidence and communities for smarter land and water management

As part of its commitment to creating rivers fit for the future, The Rivers Trust has been at the forefront of driving forward a Catchment-Based Approach. Working in partnership with local Trusts, authorities, charities, land managers and user groups, we are transforming how rivers are managed.

There is a growing recognition of the benefits of a catchment approach across the UK and Ireland - from an environmental, economic and political perspective. We want to share our learnings to build on this to benefit even more rivers and the communities that rely on them.

Issues like flooding, pollution, water scarcity, and biodiversity loss can be only tackled effectively if rivers are treated in tandem with the catchments that feed them. Similarly, our land is better placed to meet food needs, provide healthy habitat for wildlife, and contribute to a sustainable economy if the surrounding water environment is healthy. In order to make that happen, and we must ensure that the right actions are being taken in the right places.

2026 should see key pieces of water-related policy and legislation progressed that could be transformative for rivers. It is vital that delivery on the ground is rooted in robust data and evidence and carried out in partnership with communities. We need to treat water as the precious natural resource it is, nurturing landscapes that embrace water and make space for it. From our data-driven public campaigns to our innovative approach to funding nature-based solutions, these key elements all align with the work and values of the Rivers Trust Movement, and we’ll be unpacking how to get them right in our free, online, 2026 Annual Conference.

We’re putting together an engaging programme featuring keynote speakers, thought-provoking panel discussions, and inspiring case studies. You can expect to hear a range of voices from the Rivers Trust Movement, the wider environmental sector, technical experts, industry, landowners, governance, and campaigners. Register now to join the conversation.

Any questions can be directed to [email protected]

Agenda

10:00: Opening Remarks

10:10: Emma Hardy MP Keynote

10:30: A future vision for data-led decision making: unpacking policy and governance developments

11.15: Break

11.30: Data-led delivery: where are we now?

12:45: Lunch

13:45: Mary-Ann Ochota Keynote

14:00: Spotlight on protected landscapes

14:45: Break

15:00: Lightning talks: case studies

15:30: Getting it done: what is the gold standard for evidence-led, holistic land and water management?

16:15: Closing Reflections