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State of the Strait

September 17 - 17, 2026

Free Admission I Registration Required

Discover the Power of Rewilding

For more than two decades, State of the Strait has brought together scientists, conservationists, policymakers and community leaders from both sides of the border to tackle the Detroit River and western Lake Erie corridor’s most pressing environmental challenges.

This year, the conference theme is rewilding — the deliberate, science-driven work of restoring ecosystems so they can function and eventually sustain themselves.

In a region defined by heavy industry, cross-border waterways and decades of environmental compromise, this conference shines a spotlight on the people and projects enabling rewilding in our watersheds.

Register Now

State of the Strait

What to Expect

  • Keynote speakers and panel discussions tackling the science, policy and community dynamics of rewilding across the Detroit River watershed.
  • Networking with researchers, municipal leaders, nonprofit practitioners and private landowners who are already doing this work.
  • Actionable, measurable tools for ecological success.

Location

Detroit Zoo Ford Education Center Theater

8450 W. 10 Mile Road, Royal Oak, MI 48067

Agenda & Speaker Lineup

The full conference program — including speakers and panelists — will be posted here as details are finalized. Check back soon.

State of the Strait Registration

Why Rewilding? Why Now?

In 1985, the Detroit River was named a binational Area of Concern. Decades of restoration have brought us to the brink of delisting — a feat once thought impossible. While restoration fixes the past, rewilding asks if we can create landscapes that are self-sustaining.

With climate volatility and development pressures rising, this conference brings experts and advocates into one room to build a durable, biodiverse future for our region.

Partners & Sponsors

 

Platinum

Silver

Robinson Coleman Fund

Bronze