Search Narrows for OWAA 2016 Annual Conference Location
OutdoorHub 10.23.13
The Outdoor Writers Association of America announces its short list of potential host locations for the association’s 2016 annual conference. After reviewing numerous proposals, OWAA Executive Director Tom Sadler and Conference Coordinator Jessica Pollett narrowed the selection to Billings, Mont., Casper, Wyo., and Indianapolis, Ind.
OWAA likes to go to different regions of the country with each new conference location. Other factors for locations include identifying the best combination of exciting pre- and post-conference opportunities, recreational facilities and ease of access for attendees.
About Billings:
Montana is known for its sprawling outdoor space and Billings offers no shortage of recreational opportunities. Distinguished by the unique geological formation known as the rims – which provides a network of trails right in town – Montana’s largest city also acts as a gateway to Yellowstone National Park, the Beartooth Highway and historical and cultural sites like Pictograph Cave State Park.
About Casper:
Another great spot to experience the West, Casper offers access to a little bit of everything from world class fly-fishing on the North Platte River, to some of the best preserved segments of the historic trail systems. Biking and hiking opportunities abound and the community even has a whitewater course that allows you to kayak in town.
About Indianapolis:
An opportunity to return to the Midwest, Indianapolis would provide the accessibility and amenities of a larger city as well as access to their unique urban-outdoors and nearby state parks, fishing and recreational spots. 2016 is also a landmark year for the region as they celebrate the 100-year anniversary of Indiana’s parks system and the bicentennial for the state of Indiana.
Sadler and Pollett will visit these location in October and November to learn how each location would benefit OWAA members and supporters. The 2016 conference site will be selected based on facilities, local partners and outdoor opportunities found at each site. The site will be selected at the January 2014 Board of Directors meeting and announced shortly thereafter.
OWAA annual conference schedule:
- 2014 – McAllen, Texas
- 2015 – Knoxville, Tenn.
- 2016 – Stay tuned!
For updated news about all upcoming conferences, visit www.owaa.org/conference.
