The Western Planner
THE JOURNAL FOR WESTERN PLANNING SINCE 1979
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2026 WESTERN PLANNER CONFERENCE
SOUTH DAKOTA PLANNING ASSOCIATION
WESTERN PLANNER
TRIBAL & INDIGENOUS DIVISION APA
Visit the Western Planner Website for more information
DATES: August 26-28, 2026
LOCATION: Sioux Falls, South Dakota
VENUE: Canopy by Hilton Downtown
Urban Vibe, Rural Charm
Get ready for a one-of-a-kind planning conference experience in the heart of the Upper Midwest.
Planners, practitioners, and community leaders from across the region will gather in Sioux Falls for a joint conference hosted by the South Dakota Planners Association, Western Planners Association, and American Planning Association – Tribal & Indigenous Division.
With the theme Urban Vibe, Rural Charm, this conference celebrates the places we plan – from thriving urban centers to small towns and Tribal communities – while tackling real world challenges and shaping the future of the Western United States.
More than 13 states will be represented, bringing together diverse perspectives at a pivotal moment for community planning. The conversations, connections, and ideas sparked here will influence how our communities grow, adapt, and thrive for years to come.
Registration Is Now Open
Secure your spot and save!
$375 Early Bird Rate - before July 26th
$450 - after July 26th
This is a conference you won’t want to miss – register early!
Stay Where It All Happens
The stunning Canopy by Hilton is a centrally located hotel making it easy to connect, explore, and enjoy everything Downtown Sioux Falls has to offer. Rooms must be reserved by July 30th for the conference rate.
Conference Hotel Code: WPA26
Book online: Canopy by Hilton
Book by calling: 605-275-4120 and reference the hotel code
The full schedule is coming soon, but here’s a preview of what’s in store:
- Thought-provoking conference tracks reflecting today’s most pressing planning issues
- Immersive mobile tours highlighting local innovation and community character
- A fun and meaningful Bike, Run, or Walk fundraiser connecting wellness, place, and purpose
Call for Sessions
We are accepting session proposals for the 2026 Western Planner Conference in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, August 26-28. The deadline for submissions is April 30th. The conference committee will select proposals and notify all proposers by June. Please contact Adam Roach, adam.roach@siouxfalls.gov with any questions.
Submissions should be made online via this form.
While we welcome all session proposals, we’re particularly looking for sessions in these particular areas of emphasis:
- Planner’s Use of Technology and Innovation
- All Things Community Development
- Sustainability and Resilience
- Land Use Opportunities and Challenges
Western Planner is seeking nominations for our 2026 annual awards. To submit a nomination, please fill out the online form. Learn more at westernplanner.org/awards.
AWARDS
Sheldon D. Gerber Merit Award for Excellence in Environmental Planning
Kenneth G. Waido Award for Planning Team of the Year
Student Planning Project of the Year
Rural Innovation Award
Citizen Planner Award
Lester Award
Don’t let all your hard work go unnoticed or your best people go unrecognized! Step up and nominate someone today. We are seeking nominations for our annual awards. Awards will be presented during the Western Planner Conference in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, August 26–28.
Questions? Contact Alison (Breckon) Tompkins (president-elect@westernplanner.org) or editor@westernplanner.org.