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Program

The Understory will feature a plenary (full group) focused program that presents and unpacks the social, political, economic, and ecological circumstances related to post-fire restoration. Attendees are expected to participate actively, and will have ample opportunities to provide input, receive and contribute perspectives, and connect with new and familiar peers. 

Orienting questions for this gathering include: 

  • How can we facilitate management based in the best available science and local context under current and continually changing circumstances?
  • What drivers and levers turn reforestation need into demand for reforestation services? 
  • What persistent or systemic barriers exist that hinder our ability to respond and initiate post-fire management quickly?

Speakers and session information will be posted as it becomes available, and is subject to change. 


Schedule

Tuesday, October 20Reforesting the Giants

Visit restoration sites where young giant sequoias and other native species are being replanted within high severity burn areas, addressing recent fire impacts which have fundamentally altered some of the world’s most iconic forests.

Wednesday, October 21The Understory - Day 1

A day of presentations, breaking bread, and grounding in an environment where meaningful discussions can unfold, new relationships can take root, and old partnerships can deepen. We'll explore what's at stake for California's forests over the next decade, consider innovative funding solutions, and unpack the challenges and opportunities of scaling implementation. Evening networking reception (1 beverage ticket included).

Thursday, October 22The Understory - Day 2

Day 2 looks ahead to the forests we're working to create, exploring how the best available science can translate to adaptive management on the ground, and hear stories of how shared stewardship and Indigenous knowledge are informing reforestation strategies that support resilient landscapes and multiple values and uses. Together, we'll have a chance to build the coalitions and partnerships needed to expand our collective capacity to restore California's forests. We'll also debrief the cone collection season and present the 2026 California Squirrel Awards. After the Understory's conclusion, attendees are invited to walk next door to The Woodlands for a special no host after-party "food fest" featuring more than a dozen local food trucks and vendors to choose from for dinner.

Support

Anyone who would like to request financial assistance to attend The Understory can submit their interest here. Available funds are limited, and requests will be considered and responded to on a case-by-case basis. 

Countdown to the Understory:

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  • Includes full access to all event sessions and presentations Oct 21 & 22, with morning beverages and buffet lunch both days, social reception ticket (includes 1 drink), and 3 tickets for the 'pick your prize' raffle.

  • Daylong group field tour on Tues. October 20 of post-fire active reforestation sites in and/or around the Sequoia National Forest. Round trip transportation from a park & ride point in Visalia and a boxed lunch will be provided. Details to follow. Limited capacity (60 pp max).

  • This helps us get a final headcount for lunch. Sorry, no registration price adjustments are available for those who can only attend one of the two conference days.

  • I currently plan to attend only on Weds 10/21.

  • I currently plan to attend only on Thurs 10/22.

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Interested in sponsoring or tabling at the Resource Fair?

There are a few ways to sponsor or have a dedicated outreach table at this year's Understory. 

Sponsorship information here

Lodging

Information about local lodging options near the event venue can be found here thanks to Visit Visalia. 

For those interested in tent, trailer, and van camping options, a KOA is located just a 10-minute drive away from the event venue, while Horse Creek Campground (Sequoia National Forest) is a 30-minute drive from the event venue and just 11 miles from the southern entrance of the Sequoia National Park.


Location Information

  • Bello Vita
  • 4211 W Goshen Ave., Visalia, CA, 93291 US
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