Registration is now open for the second Water in the Desert Conference, scheduled for Feb. 11–13, 2026, at Sul Ross State University. The three-day event will once again gather landowners, researchers, policymakers, and community stakeholders to discuss the state of water resources across West Texas.
Hosted by the Borderlands Research Institute (BRI) in collaboration with the West Texas Water Research Center (WTWRC), this year’s conference builds on the momentum of the inaugural 2024 event, which drew more than 260 attendees. The 2026 conference will return to the Sul Ross campus with a full slate of presentations, field sessions, and cross-sector conversations.
“Water in the Desert has become a trusted forum for real conversations about West Texas water,” said Billy Tarrant, interim director of the WTWRC. “We’re looking forward to bringing everyone back together to share new science, strengthen partnerships, and keep the momentum going.”
Program Highlights
This year’s agenda will feature:
- Groundwater and surface-water science updates
- A regional legislative and policy outlook
- Landowner perspectives from across the Trans-Pecos
- Presentation of draft priorities for the new West Texas Water Research Center
- Field trips and breakout sessions focused on applied science and land management
A full speaker list and detailed schedule will be released in the coming weeks.
Registration
Early bird registration is $75 through Jan. 2. Beginning Jan. 3, the standard rate will be $95. Participants are encouraged to register early at:
bri.sulross.edu/events/water-in-the-desert-2026
Many attendees travel from across the region, so advance registration also helps ensure lodging availability in Alpine.
“The Water in the Desert Conference has energized our university’s role in addressing water challenges across the region,” said Dr. Louis Harveson, Associate Provost of Research and Development at Sul Ross State University and BRI director. “By coupling a strong convening with a service-oriented research center, we can help provide the science and partnerships that West Texans need to plan for the future.”
Conference Partners
The 2026 event is organized with support from:
- Borderlands Research Institute
- West Texas Water Research Center
- Sul Ross State University
- Dixon Water Foundation
- Environmental Defense Fund
- Texas Water Foundation
- Rio Grande Joint Venture
- Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
- Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation
- The Nature Conservancy
- Texas Wildlife Association
- Texas Agricultural Land Trust
About the Borderlands Research Institute
Since 2007, the Borderlands Research Institute at Sul Ross State University has worked to advance land stewardship and conservation across the Chihuahuan Desert. Through research, education, and outreach—and with deep partnerships among landowners, agencies, and conservation groups—BRI supports the preservation of one of Texas’ most ecologically significant landscapes.
