New Directions in American Landscape (NDAL) is holding its 37th Annual Symposium, entitled Seeing the Forest and the Trees on January 15-16 in Union, NJ (just outside NYC) and will also have virtual options for those who cannot attend in person.
Register here
Seeing the Forest and the Trees: Seeing the Forest and the Trees: Designing Landscapes that Integrate Regional Specificity with Global Commonality
Incorporating a region’s indigenous plant communities and ecological processes is at the heart of ecology-based design. But no natural system operates in isolation or is forever immune to change…..especially today where the effects of watershed alteration, soil disturbance, plant globalization, and climate change are at play worldwide. Our Symposium will begin by zooming in on techniques for regionally-specific landscape analysis and design. We will then widen the lens and learn how disturbance, ecological science, and cultural land practices across regions can factor into those processes. Finally, we will explore how an expansive view of landscape art can unify this micro/macro divide in landscapes ranging from expansive to intimate.
Founded in 1990 by Landscape Designer Larry Weaner and NDAL, this annual two-day symposium has a long tradition of celebrating native plants and innovative ecological practice. Reflecting the diverse factors that shape our landscapes, presenters include landscape architects, landscape designers, horticulturists, ecologists, historians, anthropologists, artists and others. The series offers in-depth explorations of forward-looking and overlooked topics, always seeking to connect theory with practical application. Join us as we continue to connect the dots between ecological restoration, cultural landscape practice, and fine garden design.
Where & When:
Kean University, Union, NJ (virtual options available)
Jan. 15 – 16, 2026 | 9:00 – 5:00 PM ET
In-person option includes:
Light breakfast, lunch, and refreshments both days
Reception (refreshments & hour de’vours) immediately following the program on Thursday, Jan. 15th
Optional in-person add-on (+$50):
Dinner immediately following reception on Thursday, Jan. 15
Regular Rate (in-person & virtual)
$380 if registered by Dec. 10, 2025
$410 if registered after Dec. 10, 2025
Student Rate – with ID (in-person & virtual)
$205 if registered by Dec. 10, 2025
$230 if registered after Dec. 10, 2025
Register by:
Jan. 8, 2026 (In-Person)
Jan. 14, 2026 (Virtual Only)
Early Bird Rates Until Dec. 10
In-Person
Regular Rate $380
Student Rate (with ID) $205
In-Person + Dinner (+$50)
Regular Rate + Dinner $430
Student Rate + Dinner $255
Virtual Only
Regular Rate $380
Student Rate (with ID) $205
Recordings & CEUs
Recording of the program* will be available mid/late January and viewable for 3 months to all attendees (in-person and virtual attendees).
CEUs available
CEU types: APLD, CBLP, ISA, LA CES, NOFA, PLNA, SER (12 CEU hours for most types)