oppi and oala tackle current and pressing issues at joint conference

The Ontario Professional Planners Institute (OPPI) and the Ontario Association of Landscape Architects (OALA) have partnered to host a joint conference in London, Ontario, this fall.
 
On September 21 and 22, the joint OPPI-OALA conference will explore the important role that professional planners and landscape architects play in the natural and built environments, including the ongoing climate crisis, racial and social injustice, the inherent rights and title of Indigenous Peoples, and other relevant topics impacting Ontario communities.
 
“It would be an understatement to say that the last two years have been challenging,” says Paul Lowes, Registered Professional Planner (RPP), OPPI President, and principal at SGL Planning & Design Inc. “This joint conference with OALA will present an opportunity to redefine the role of professional planners and landscape architects as vital to the recovery of Ontario’s communities.”
 
The joint OPPI-OALA conference will be especially exciting as it marks a return to in-person events for both organizations since the beginning of the pandemic. Professionals and industry experts from across Ontario will gather for the first time, face to face, for two days of insightful keynote speakers, thoughtful panel discussions, and meaningful breakout sessions. Programming for the conference will also be available online for those who wish to attend virtually.
 
“We are living in a historic moment of change,” says Steve Barnhart, OALA President and senior director at Niagara Parks Commission. “As landscape architects and professional planners, we have an important role in guiding that change to ensure it sets future communities up for success. The OPPI-OALA joint conference will be the place to do just that.”
 
More details will be released soon including a call for presentations, conference programming, and registration. Mark your calendars for September 21 and 22!

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About OALA – The Ontario Association of Landscape Architects (OALA) and its over 2,000 members support the advancement of service to the public and the profession in the planning, design, and management of both natural and built environments, while working collaboratively with other professionals. The mission of the OALA is to promote, improve and advance the profession of landscape architecture and maintain standards of professional practice and conduct, consistent with the objective to serve and to protect the public interest.