Bays to Backyards 2026 Summit

Join community members and professionals from across the Inland Bays watershed at the first annual Bays to Backyards Summit.
About this Event

Registration closes September 8 or when spots are filled! Agenda is below.

Discover what participating communities and partners have been working on throughout the past year to strengthen resilience, enhance habitat, and steward shared open spaces. The Summit brings attendees together to learn from experts and each other through a keynote presentation, exhibitor sessions, and a series of interactive "spark talks" that combine expert insights with facilitated discussion to explore real challenges, practical solutions, and shared ideas.

Since inception in 2024, a suite of partners has been working hand-in-hand with landowners across the watershed to strengthen resilience, enhance habitat, and steward shared open spaces - starting right in their own backyards.

For more information, please contact [email protected] or call 302-739-9939.

Agenda

🕑: 08:30 AM - 09:00 AM
Registration and Refreshments
🕑: 09:00 AM - 09:45 AM
Welcome and Keynote

Info: Michael Blacketer, Mt. Cuba Center

🕑: 09:45 AM - 10:15 AM
Visit Exhibitors and Networking
🕑: 10:15 AM - 11:00 AM
Expert Lighting Talks and Audience Discussion

Info: Brittany Haywood, Delaware Sea Grant and RASCL; Jessica Watson, Sussex Conservation District; Patti Drago, Community Leadership and Governance Specialist

🕑: 11:00 AM - 11:15 AM
Break
🕑: 11:15 AM - 11:45 AM
Community Spotlight

Info: Bishop's Landing; Independence; Kindleton; Tidewater Landing

🕑: 11:45 AM - 12:00 PM
Awards and Closing
🕑: 12:00 PM - 01:00 PM
Optional Field Trip: Micro Meadow Project

Info: The project site is nearby in the host community, Independence, and is a short drive away.