The Great Lakes Stormwater Collaborative, Green Infrastructure Leadership Exchange, and RISC Solutions are excited to announce the upcoming Great Lakes Stormwater Summit in Buffalo, New York, on October 14-15, 2026. This two-day event brings together regional leaders, municipal practitioners, and regulatory agencies to address pressing stormwater challenges and explore innovative, climate-resilient solutions.
There is no registration fee, and lunch on day one and breakfast on day two are included. Attendees will also enjoy an evening networking event at Big Ditch Brewery including complimentary food and beverages. Owing to generous support from the Great Lakes Protection Fund, we are able to cover requests for travel and lodging expenses – we encourage you to make hotel reservations at Embassy Suites , where the event will be held, or at the nearby Hampton Inn. Please inquire about travel support in the registration form.
Day 1: Laying the Groundwork & Pitching Big Ideas
The summit kicks off on October 14 with opening remarks from Buffalo Mayor Sean Ryan and staff from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. The afternoon featured sessions will cover:
- The Federal Landscape: Seth Brown from the National Municipal Stormwater Alliance will present results from the 2024 MS4 Needs Assessment Survey.
- State Agency Perspectives: A panel of state regulatory agencies will discuss pressures, innovations, and the regional implications of stormwater permitting.
- Freshwater Shark Tank: Municipal and local stormwater practitioners will pitch creative ideas for smart adjustments to advance progress.
- Interactive Discussions: The day concludes with rotating table conversations focused on the challenges and solutions raised during the sessions, followed by an evening networking event.
Day 2: Climate Resilience & Local Innovation
Day two begins with a keynote address from U.S. Representative Tim Kennedy (NY-26). The morning focuses heavily on collaboration and future planning:
- Climate-Focused Conversations: Attendees will participate in rotating table discussions centered on stormwater solutions through the lens of a changing climate.
- Collaborative Next Steps: The group will discuss how the Great Lakes Stormwater Collaborative and RISC can work together effectively, look ahead to a May 2027 Research Symposium in Toronto, and gather feedback on the summit.
- Green Infrastructure Tours: Following adjournment, the Buffalo Sewer Authority staff will lead optional walking and biking tours highlighting local green infrastructure installations.
We hope you will join us in Buffalo for what promises to be an informative, collaborative, and inspiring gathering. REGISTER TODAY and please feel free to reach out to Nina Baldwin directly with any questions.
