Southern Illinois University Carbondale's Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center will host the inaugural Southern Illinois Outdoor Summit this Spring.
The free event aims to unite community partners, businesses, nonprofit organizations, and interested public members to promote the region's growing outdoor economy.
It will feature keynote speakers, workshops, outdoor demonstrations, and networking opportunities.
Summit organizers are also accepting applications for 45-minute workshops on topics related to outdoor initiatives, grant writing, event or land management, and more.
Registration begins at 8 am with free coffee.
The event will then wrap up by 3 p.m., followed by a couple of hours during which participants can do open play or socialize.
Online registration for the March 28 outdoor summit is now open. Visit Touch of Nature SIU's website or wsiu.org to learn more.