Oka Con'26 Celebrates a Decade of Innovation in Water Sustainability

The Oka' Institute at East Central University will celebrate 10 years of advancing water sustainability, land stewardship, research, and community partnerships during Oka Con’26, scheduled for October 15 and 16, 2026, at East Central University in Ada, Oklahoma.  

This year’s conference marks the 10th anniversary of the Oka’ Institute and the Water Resource Policy and Management graduate program at ECU. The event will bring together community leaders, researchers, tribal partners, policymakers, students, and industry professionals from across the region to celebrate a decade of collaboration and impact. 

Oka Con’26 will feature conversations surrounding sustainable communities, land stewardship, water research, and water policy while highlighting the partnerships and projects that have shaped the institute and graduate program over the past decade. 

“This milestone is an opportunity to reflect on the partnerships and progress that have defined the Oka’ Institute over the last 10 years,” Duane Smith, Executive Director of the Oka’ Institute said. “Oka Con continues to serve as a place where people from different backgrounds and disciplines come together to share ideas, build relationships, and work toward practical solutions for the future of Oklahoma’s water and natural resources.” 

The conference is expected to include keynote speakers, technical sessions, networking opportunities, student engagement, community celebration, and an immersive field experience focused on land and water management practices. Additional conference details and speaker announcements will be released as the agenda is finalized. 

As part of the 10-year celebration, the conference will also feature Oka’ Fest, a family friendly evening event at Centennial Plaza on the campus of East Central University with food, entertainment, and activities for attendees and the community. 

Oka Con’26 is free to attend, though meal tickets will be available for selective events and activities. Registration information, sponsorship opportunities, and additional event updates will be announced in the coming months.