The Theme: Bluegrass and Blue Waters
Join us in Lexington, Kentucky, a vibrant city nestled in the heart of the Bluegrass region. Known for its rich equestrian heritage and scenic beauty, Lexington is home to a diverse array of water resources that play a crucial role in its community and environment. From the lush waters of the Red River Gorge to the extensive Kentucky River system, Kentucky's water sources provide critical habitat, recreational opportunities, and drinking water to a growing population. The conference will feature keynote speakers, coordinator led workshops, networking opportunities, and exciting field excursions to Mammoth Cave and Red River Gorge.
The Place: Lexington, KY
Lexington, Kentucky, often referred to as the "Horse Capital of the World," is a city rich in history and natural beauty. It's renowned for its rolling pastures, prestigious thoroughbred farms, and vibrant equestrian culture. The city also boasts a strong commitment to environmental stewardship, particularly in managing its abundant water resources. With the Kentucky River flowing through the region and numerous parks and green spaces, Lexington serves as a model for balancing urban development with ecological preservation. Its blend of historic charm, cultural richness, and forward-thinking sustainability.
Agenda Overview
Monday, March 31st : New Coordinator Training, Educator Training (TBD), & Kickoff Network Gathering
Tuesday, April 1st: Network Business Meeting, Opening Luncheon, and Presentations
- Regional and Network Business Meetings are for Project WET coordinators only. This is time to discuss your program with other coordinators and Project WET Foundation staff. Learn what is happening at the Project WET Foundation and help shape the future of Project WET over the next year.
- Afternoon will have 2 blocks of concurrent sessions and lightning round mini-presentations.
- Fun Night Activity: TBD
Wednesday, April 2nd: Field Experience: Mammoth Cave National Park
- Full day field experience to Mammoth Cave National Park. Mammoth Cave National Park is renowned for its extensive and intricate cave system, which is the longest known in the world. We'll have a guided tour in the morning and multiple options for exploring in the afternoon.
- Evening: 'Sustainability Tour' in honor of Lynn Pilewski.
Thursday, April 3rd: General Sessions and Closing Dinner
- General Sessions and Advanced Trainings. Presentations and activities are submitted by coordinators and vetted by the conference planning committee. Call for Presentation information below. (Apply Here.)
- Short field experience to McConnell Springs
- Closing Dinner: Details coming soon.
Friday, April 4th: Optional Field Experience to Red River Gorge
Red River Gorge is known for its sandstone formations, deep gorges, and expansive natural arches. A popular destination for hikers, climbers, kayakers and bird watchers. Guided adventure info coming soon. We'll be back in Lexington, KY around 6pm.
Call for Presentations
We are accepting applications to present at the 2025 Project WET Conference. They are due Friday, November 22nd. Most presentation time slots will be 45 minutes including questions and are encouraged to be interactive and/or hands-on. We are especially interested in presentations that focus on expanding access to Project WET trainings and programs for diverse audiences.
Apply Here
Cost and Logistics
The cost for Project WET USA Coordinators to attend the entire conference is $550 (Early Bird Rate, before Jan 24th) and $600(after Jan 24th) and includes most meals. See agenda below for the schedule of included meals.
Cancellation policy: Cancellations are available for a full refund through Feb 14th.
Lodging: Lodging is not included but has been negotiated at a rate of $157 per night. Limitted government rate rooms are also available on the block at the pervailing government rate ($116 per night). Participants must book their own rooms at Hilton Lexington Downtown.
General reservation link:
https://www.hilton.com/en/attend-my-event/projectwetinlexingtonkentucky/
Government rate reservation link: (Limited Availability)
https://www.hilton.com/en/attend-my-event/projectwetusalexingtonkentuckygovernmentrate/
To learn more about the Lexington Downtown Area.
Transportation:
The Hilton Lexington Downtown hotel provides an airport shuttle. Bus transportation to all field experiences is included.
