The California Water Institute and the Maddy Institute are collaborating with Stanford University’s Bill Lane Center for the American West to bring the Eleventh Annual Eccles Family Rural West Conference to campus on Wednesday, Feb. 26 to Thursday, Feb. 27.

This year’s theme is focused on the Central Valley’s vital role in addressing climate change and its impact on rural communities. The theme, “People and Places: Resourcing California’s Climate Future in the Central Valley,” will examine our region, considered to be at the intersection between environmental sustainability, economic resilience and community engagement in the state’s climate future.

The Bill Lane Center at Stanford University is hosting the event at the Linda and Stewart Resnick Student Union. It will feature a number of speakers, presentations and panels discussing the future of working lands, agriculture, energy and water resources. Other key experts will weigh in on climate science, policy and community development.

President Saúl Jiménez-Sandoval is scheduled to deliver the keynote address on Thursday, Feb. 27. For program details and updates, please visit the event webpage. Confirm your attendance by submitting the RSVP form by Tuesday, Feb. 18.