Celebrate 50 years of WFO’s Annual Conference in 2026 by joining us in Ashland this fall!
In partnership with Klamath Bird Observatory and the Oregon Birding Association, WFO is excited to commemorate this golden milestone in Ashland, Oregon, September 17– 20, 2026. Our planning committee is hard at work organizing expert-led field trips and a full schedule of engaging science sessions, skills workshops and panels, and not-to-be missed events like the Sound ID Challenge.
Conference registration will open in May, and WFO members will be notified of its availability via email. If you’d like to book your accommodations now (recommended), more information is available on the website here: 2026 WFO Conference- Ashland.
Keynote Presentation
We are pleased to announce that Jaime Stephens, Director of Conservation at Klamath Bird Observatory, will deliver the keynote presentation.
Jaime brings together forest ecology, avian science, and applied conservation to inform real-world decision-making for birds and habitats of the Pacific Northwest. Her work centers on translating long-term monitoring and ecological research into conservation strategies that are practical, inclusive, and grounded in collaboration. She works closely with agencies, Tribes, conservation organizations, and landowners, to co-produce solutions that benefit birds while addressing land-use and social constraints.
Currently, she leads conservation efforts focused on oak woodland restoration in southwestern Oregon and northern California, and more broadly across the Pacific Northwest. She coordinates the Klamath Siskiyou Oak Network, a collaborative partnership advancing large-scale oak habitat restoration.
Important Dates & Deadlines
Conference Scholarships- Students (Ages 12+): deadline March 31
The Student Programs Committee is pleased to offer up to seven scholarships for students ages 12 and up to attend the 2026 conference. Learn more and apply: WFO Conference Scholarship Application
Conference Scholarships- Mexican Students & Young Professionals: deadline March 31
The Student Programs Committee is pleased to offer up to three scholarships for students and young professionals from Mexico to attend the 2026 conference. Preference will be given to applicants presenting original research.
Learn more and apply: WFO Mexican Conference Scholarship Application
Obtenga más información y postúlese: Beca para Escolares y Profesionales Mexicanos para la Conferencia de WFO
Travel Grant- Early-Career Professionals and Graduate Students: Deadline March 31
New in 2026, WFO is offering up to four travel grants to support early-career professionals (ages 20 – 40) and graduate students for the conference. These grants include travel assistance and conference registration. Learn more and apply: WFO Early-Career Professionals Conference Travel Grant Application
March 2026