Water Observing Technology Forum

Registration Now Open!

Dates: July 28-30, 2026

Location: Tuscaloosa, AL

Theme: Impacts of non-contact water monitoring technologies enhanced with artificial intelligence on water monitoring operations Explore how intelligent, non-contact sensing solutions are transforming water operations and decision-making.

Introduction

The Water Observing Technology Forum (WOTF) brings together innovators, researchers, and practitioners to explore cutting-edge solutions for water resource management. As water systems face increasing challenges, technology plays a critical role in enabling smarter, more efficient, and sustainable operations.

The 2026 forum will spotlight non-contact water monitoring technologies enhanced with artificial intelligence (AI). Non-contact approaches are reshaping how water data is collected, analyzed, and applied, and AI can further enhance those approaches. This year’s focus goes beyond software analytics to examine sensor technologies and hardware designs that embed AI into their operation, enabling real-time intelligence at the point of measurement.

From advanced remote sensing platforms to predictive, self-calibrating sensors, these innovations are driving operational improvements and empowering decision-makers with actionable insights.

Join us to learn how next-generation sensing technologies and AI-driven capabilities are redefining water monitoring strategies and decisions.

What to Expect

• Keynote Sessions: Visionary talks on the future of water monitoring and AI integration
• Technical Tracks: Deep dives into remote sensing, machine learning applications, and real-world case studies
• Panel Discussions: Perspectives from industry leaders, researchers, and technology developers
• Technology Demonstrations: In-person sensor technology applications and demonstrations from industry leaders
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with peers and experts shaping the next generation of water management

Attendees

Participants will represent federal agencies, industry, academia, resource management agencies, NGOs, and existing partners. Attendees will be challenged to identify critical observation gaps and emerging water monitoring and sensing technologies for future investment.

Speakers will provide updates on their research into innovative water monitoring technologies, and all attendees are welcome to submit a poster for display during the forum.

Attendees will also have two days in the new, state-of-the-art USGS Hydrologic Instrumentation Facility (HIF) with tours, demonstrations, and hands-on experience with the latest non-contact water monitoring technologies.

Posters

All attendees are welcome to submit a poster for display.

• Poster size: 48 inches wide × 36 inches high
• Printing option: The Sign Shop on campus can print posters for $48 with 24-hour notice
• Note: Attendees are responsible for picking up their printed posters

Agenda

What’s on the Agenda?

• AI-Integrated Sensor Hardware: Next-generation non-contact sensors with embedded AI for real-time data processing and adaptive performance
• Predictive Analytics at the Edge: Smart sensors enabling on-site intelligence, reduced latency, and enhanced operational decisions
• Case Studies & Applications: Industry-led discussions on deploying AI-driven hardware across diverse monitoring environments
  

Day 1: Tuesday, July 28 (at Hotel Capstone)

• Morning (8:30-12:00)
  • Opening Ceremony: Kick-off and welcome remarks, including opening remarks from USGS and University of Alabama leadership and introductions to the forum theme: How non-contact water monitoring technologies enhanced with artificial intelligence are impacting water monitoring operations and decisions.
  • Keynote Speaker: Director Jeff Smitherman, Alabama Emergency Management Agency (AEMA)
  • Technical Sessions: Presentations from invited experts highlighting innovations in non-contact sensing, AI-enabled monitoring, and the future of water observing technologies.
• Afternoon (1:30-4:30)
  • Panel Discussion: Interactive, cross-industry conversation on challenges and opportunities for developing AI-enabled water monitoring technologies across local, regional, and national scales.
  • FLOW Academy Lightning Talks: Hear how members of the 2026 USGS Future Leaders in Observation of Water (FLOW) Academy spent their summer in Tuscaloosa developing and testing next-generation water monitoring tools.
• Evening (4:30-7:00)
  • WOTF Technology Showcase: Explore the latest water-monitoring technologies demonstrated by sponsors, exhibitors, and invited technologists.
    

Day 2 – Wednesday, July 29 (at the HIF)

• Morning (8:30-12:30)
  • Training Workshops: Hands-on, skill-building sessions focused on non-contact monitoring methods and the integration of AI into water-data collection and processing. Includes both advanced training sessions on image-based and drone-based monitoring and an AI 101 introductory track for participants wanting a foundational overview of AI in hydrology.
  • Breakout Group Discussions: Participate in small group discussions on topics related to technology transition from research to operations, including barriers to adoption, Fit-for-Purpose and lower cost monitoring technologies, and how we can use AI to improve data accuracy.
• Afternoon (1:30-4:00)
  • HIF Tours: Guided walkthrough of the new 92,000 square foot USGS Hydrologic Instrumentation Facility (HIF) and explore the state-of-the-art hydraulics laboratory, instrumentation testing facilities, Network Operations Center, and equipment warehouse.
  • Poster Session: Research and technology posters highlighting advancements in water observing technologies, AI applications, and monitoring innovations.
• Evening (5:00-7:00)
  • Night at the HIF: Stick around for a second poster session, networking time, and a special presentation exploring the history of Bryce Hospital by Steve Davis, Bryce Hospital Historian.

Day 3 – Thursday, July 30 (at the HIF)

• All Day (8:30-6:00)
  • Innovation Showcase: Live technology demonstrations inside the HIF, featuring AI-enabled sensors, analytics platforms, software tools, and novel instrumentation.
  • Closing Ceremony: Summary of forum insights, breakout session outcomes, and a forward look at national water observing priorities.
  • Networking Session: An informal opportunity for attendees to continue conversations, build collaborations, and spark new ideas for the next generation of water monitoring technologies.

For a detailed schedule, please visit the full agenda page (still under development).

HIF Tour

We are excited to offer attendees a tour of the USGS Hydrologic Instrumentation Facility (HIF) on The University of Alabama campus. The 95,000 square feet, two story facility includes a hydraulics lab, water quality labs, field testing facilities, environmental chambers, sensor innovation space, warehouse, training labs, network operations center, and administrative offices. Unique features of the hydraulics lab include a tilting flume and test basin for simulating river and stream processes, and a 350-foot-long tow tank and carriage which provides a national water-velocity standard for calibrating field instrumentation. There will be opportunities to take a tour of the new HIF on Day 3, so stay tuned for more information.

Registration

Thank you for your interest in attending the Water Observing Technology Forum (WOTF), July 28–30, 2026, in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

Attendance will be limited to 100 registered participants to maximize networking and demonstration opportunities. There is no registration cost to attend.

Sponsorship opportunities are available for commercial partners (see below). Speakers are by invitation only. Poster presentations may be requested during registration.

Parking

Please click the link for information regarding The Alabama Water Institute Conference Parking.

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Thank you to our 2026 Sponsors

Exhibitors

WOTF offers a unique platform for organizations to showcase innovations, connect with industry leaders, and demonstrate a commitment to advancing water monitoring technologies.

See details below regarding exhibitor and sponsorship tier information

Demo Day Participants 

Sponsorship Tiers

WOTF Presenting and Research Exchange Sponsor – $7,500 (1 Available)

The Premier Sponsor is the primary supporter of WOTF and the exclusive sponsor of the Research Exchange Event (“Evening at the HIF”).

Includes:

• Recognition as Presenting Sponsor
• Exclusive sponsorship of Evening at the HIF (open bar and appetizers)
• Top-tier logo placement on:
  • WOTF website homepage
  • Event signage
  • Program materials
  • Opening and closing slides
  • Research Exchange signage
• Verbal recognition during opening remarks and Research Exchange
• Four (4) complimentary registrations
• Exhibitor space:
  • One 8-foot table
  • Two chairs
  • Power outlet
  • Priority placement
  • One 45-minute technology demonstration at the HIF

Day 1 Catering & Refreshment Sponsor – $6,500 (1 available)

Includes:

• Exclusive sponsorship of Day 1 breakfast and lunch catered and hosted at Hotel Capstone
• Recognition as Day 1 Catering & Refreshment Sponsor
• Logo placement on:
  • WOTF website
  • Day 1 catering and refreshment signage
  • Program materials
  • Session break slides
  • Verbal recognition during Day 1 sessions and meal functions
  • Four (4) complimentary registrations
• Exhibitor space:
  • One 8-foot table
  • Two chairs
  • Power outlet
• Standard placement (Day 1)
  • Opportunity to display branded materials (e.g., napkins, cups, or signage) during breakfast and lunch service
• Opportunity for 45 minute demo 

Optional add-on: Sponsor Day 2 or Day 3 catering and refreshments for $4,000 per day.

WOTF Poster Session and HIF Tour Sponsor – $2,500 (1 available)

Supports the poster session and guided HIF tour.

Includes:

• Logo placement on:
  • Poster session signage
  • HIF tour materials
  • WOTF website sponsor page
• Recognition during poster session and tour introductions
• Promotional material display during poster session
• Three (3) complimentary registrations
• Exhibitor space:
  • One 8-foot table
  • Two chairs
  • Power outlet
• One 45-minute technology demonstration at the HIF

WOTF Exhibitor Sponsor – $1,000 (10 Available; 6 demo slots available for +$500)

Designed for organizations showcasing water observing technologies, tools, and services.

Includes:

• Tuesday July 28
  • One 8-foot table
  • Two chairs
  • Power outlet
  • Listing on WOTF website as an Exhibitor Sponsor
  • Two (2) complimentary registrations
• Wednesday, July 29 & Thursday, July 30
  • Attendance at HIF technology demonstrations
  • Participation in breakout sessions
• Optional Demonstration (6 Available):
  • Up to six exhibitor sponsors may provide a technology demonstration for an additional $500
  • Indicate interest during registration
• Set Up: Tuesday, July 28, 6:00–8:00 am (or Monday evening – TBD)
• Break Down: Tuesday, July 29, 7:00–8:00 pm

Exhibiting Schedule

Exhibiting hours – Hotel Capstone:

• Tuesday, July 28, 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM
  • Set up: 6:30 AM – 8:00 AM
  • Break Down: 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Demonstration hours:  – The HIF (no exhibiting space, event attendance only):

• Wednesday, July 29, 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM
• Thursday, July 30, 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM

Secure Your Spot

For more information or to reserve a sponsorship tier, please contact: Sarah Sherrill, Event Coordinator, Sasherrill@ua.edu.
Join us at WOTF 2026 to explore how innovation is redefining water management strategies and decisions.

WOTF Planning Committee

• Steve Burian – Executive Director, CIROH (sburian@ua.edu)
• Mario Tamburri – Director, Alliance for Coastal Technologies (tamburri@umces.edu)
• Brian Pellerin – USGS Next Generation Water Observing System (bpeller@usgs.gov)
• Russ Lotspeich – USGS Next Generation Water Observing System (rlotspei@usgs.gov)
• Lisa Davis, Associate Professor, Geography (lisa.davis@ua.edu)
• Aijun Song, Assistant Professor, Electrical and Computer Engineering (song@eng.ua.edu)
• Lanna Nations, Director, AWI Education and Outreach (lnations@ua.edu)
• Sarah Sherrill, AWI Events Coordinator (sasherill@ua.edu)
• Athena Clark – USGS Southeast Region Science Advisor (athclark@usgs.gov)
• Christopher Wilson –  USGS HIF Hydrologic Instrumentation Testing Lead (cwilson@usgs.gov)
• Brandon Forbes – USGS Colorado Water Science Center Associate Director for Hydrologic Data (bforbes@usgs.gov)
• Derek Bussan – Chief, USGS Hydrologic Instrumentation Facility (Dbussan@usgs.gov)
• Meredith Wagner (meredith.wagner@noaa.gov – NOAA Technology, Planning and Integration for Observation (TPIO) Team Lead
• Laura Fiorentino (laura.fiorentino@noaa.gov) – NOAA Center for Operational Oceanographic Products and Services (CO-OPS) Researcher