conference theme

Functional Wetlands as a Part of Landscape Hydrological Connectivity and Resilience

Dear Wetland Colleagues,

Join us in České Budějovice, Czech Republic, for the 21st Annual Meeting of the Europe Chapter of the Society of Wetland Scientists.

This year’s theme — Functional Wetlands as a Part of Landscape Hydrological Connectivity and Resilience — addresses some of the most pressing challenges facing wetland ecosystems today.

Wetlands play essential roles in water and nutrient cycling, biodiversity support, and landscape resilience. As climate and land-use pressures grow, understanding and protecting these functions has never been more urgent. Our meeting offers a focused platform to discuss new research, exchange ideas, and strengthen the scientific community working on these issues.

The program will feature plenary talks, oral and poster sessions, and field excursions to outstanding South Bohemian wetlands. We warmly welcome scientists, practitioners, students, and all who work with or care about wetlands.

We look forward to seeing you in České Budějovice and to an inspiring and productive meeting.

Keith Edwards & the Organizing Team
Society of Wetland Scientists – Europe Chapter

Beyond scientific sessions, the conference offers

Field excursion to different areas (peatlands, floodplain, fishponds, restored peatlands and streams)

Social events, including a welcome reception, poster session and conference dinner

Abstract Submission is Open! (Registration Opening Soon)

We look forward to featuring your work as part of 21st Annual SWS Meeting

The registration opens in March 2026!

(Early-bird registration fees by April 15, 2026)

registration (opens in February)

The Plenary and Invited Speakers

We are pleased to introduce the plenary and invited speakers, that were selected to showcase emerging ideas and perspectives in the field.

Libuše Vlasáková

Senior Advisor, Department of Species Protection and Implementation of International Commitments, Ministry of Environment of the Czech Republic.

Gillian Davies

Senior Ecologist/Natural Climate Solutions Specialist

Cornelius Oertel

is dedicated to researching soils and greenhouse gas emissions, particularly in forests and peatlands, in order to promote climate-friendly management.

Hazem Khreisha

is a conservationist and manager of the Azraq Wetland Reserve.

Join us in České Budějovice

...a pleasant and historic city with a long tradition of biological research

České Budějovice

Discover the beauty of České Budějovice – the heart of South Bohemia

Welcome to České Budějovice, the historic capital of South Bohemia, where science, culture, and nature come together in unique harmony. Founded in the 13th century, the city will enchant you with its architecture, the spacious Přemysl Otakar II Square, and the iconic Black Tower.

The surrounding countryside is full of ponds, wetlands, and forests – an ideal place for explorers and nature lovers. South Bohemia is also famous for its historical monuments, picturesque towns such as Třeboň and Český Krumlov, and renowned gastronomy with traditional Budvar beer.