The Waterfront Center of Washington DC has announced it will team with the Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area to host its 33rd annual international conference on urban waterfront planning, development and culture in Yuma, Arizona from January 25 through 27, 2018. Registration and event details are now available on the Conference web site, 2018UW.com.

The theme of the 2018 conference is “WATER: The Defining Force – Challenges for Waterfronts in the 21st Century”. This year’s conference features two tracks and 20 speakers from all over the country. The first track focuses on the challenges facing the Colorado River. The second track will explore not only an historic overview of three important waterfront redevelopments, but also how communities are becoming more resilient to cope with hurricanes, flooding, stormwater issues, sea level rise and bulkheading.

The keynote speaker will be Anne Castle, former assistant secretary of the Interior for Water and Science. The finale presenter will be renowned public artist, Mary Miss of New York, founder, City as Living Laboratory.

A pre-conference field trip Thursday, January 25 will feature tours of Yuma’s riverfront redevelopment projects and a tour of the Yuma area’s complex water development and management system. Yuma uses efficient irrigation technology to produce more than 90 percent of the leafy greens and vegetables consumed nationwide from November to March.

“We are excited to showcase Yuma’s great assets and sunny weather,” said Charles Flynn, Director of the Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area. “Even more importantly, we’re honored to be hosting so many experts in the field.”

For more information or press inquiries, please contact Charles Flynn of the Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area at 928-373-5192 or Charles.Flynn@Yumaaz.gov.