MISSOULA, Montana – Outdoor Writers Association of America has selected their top four potential host locations for the 2017 annual conference.
After reviewing numerous proposals, OWAA Executive Director Tom Sadler and Conference Coordinator Jessica Seitz narrowed the list to: Duluth, Minnesota; Indianapolis, Indiana; Lincoln, Nebraska; and Springfield, Missouri.
OWAA is continuing their efforts to reach different regions of the country with each new conference location while identifying the best combination of exciting pre- and post-conference opportunities and ease of access for attendees.
Duluth, Minnesota
Recently voted Outside magazine’s “Best Town 2014,” Duluth is situated along the shores of Lake Superior with networks of trails, byways, parks and recreational areas throughout the city. The surrounding area is also a natural flyway for many bird species and home to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.
Lake Superior photo by Sam Alvar.
Indianapolis, Indiana
Another opportunity to return to the Midwest, Indianapolis provides the accessibility and amenities of a larger city as well as access to their unique urban-outdoors and nearby state parks, fishing and recreational spots. Indianapolis also presents a very dedicated team looking forward to sharing the unique outdoor stories to be found in their region.
White River fishing photo courtesy of Indiana Department of Natural Resources.
Lincoln, Nebraska
With sprawling prairies and picturesque bluffs just outside of town, Lincoln provides the conveniences of a large city with the serenity of the countryside all in one place. Airboat on the Platte River, backpack in Indian Cave State Park or fish the Salt Valley Lakes before or after conference. All conference events would take place at the newly-renovated Cornhusker Marriot.
Nebraska sunrise photo courtesy of Lincoln CVB.
Springfield, Missouri
Home of the flagship Bass Pro Shops store with the NRA National Sporting Arms Museum and the Archery Hall of Fame, which will be the venue for a welcome event, Springfield is a gateway for outdoor enthusiasts. Accessible by direct flights from 13 different airport hubs and a great value for attendees, Springfield also offers nearby opportunities for fishing, biking, boating, overnight river camping and more.
Hercules Glades Wilderness photo courtesy of Springfield, Missouri, Convention & Visitors Bureau.
Sadler and Seitz will visit short list locations this fall in an effort to better understand how each of the locations could benefit OWAA members. Based on the facilities, local partners and outdoor opportunities found at each location, a 2017 conference site will be selected and announced following the January 2015 OWAA Board meeting. For updated news about all upcoming conferences, visit http://old.owaa-oldsite.birchbarkmedia.com/conference.
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