Posted on August 3, 2026
This year’s event brought together over 430 attendees from across the dredging, maritime, ports, navigation, environmental, engineering, government, and academic sectors for four days of technical learning, industry collaboration, and meaningful networking.
From the opening plenary sessions through to the Port of Montréal Tour, the week was filled with insightful conversations, valuable connections, and a shared commitment to advancing our industry.
Attendees participated in more than 50 technical presentations and discussions covering topics including dredging innovation, sediment management, beneficial reuse, environmental stewardship, coastal resilience, navigation infrastructure, port development, sustainability, and emerging technologies.
A particular highlight was the strong participation from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), including keynote remarks from Major General Jason E. Kelly, PMP and dedicated breakout sessions led by senior USACE leadership. These sessions provided unique opportunities for contractors, consultants, port representatives, and public sector stakeholders to engage directly on issues shaping the future of navigation and dredging throughout North America.
We were also honored to welcome Bill Fitzgerald, P.Eng., Vice President of Strategic Development at HOPA Ports, whose keynote provided valuable perspective on Dredging in Canada: The Past, the Present and a Look to the Future. Combined with sessions highlighting projects across the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence system, the conference showcased Canada’s important role in advancing dredging practice, port development, and sediment management.
Beyond the technical program, what truly makes DS&E special is the opportunity to connect. From the Taste of Canada Welcome Reception, Industry Exchange Reception, Women of WEDA Breakfast, Young WEDA Luncheon, Presidential Awards Luncheon, and Gala Dinner, to countless conversations in the Expo Hall and session rooms, the week demonstrated the strength and collaboration of our industry community.
A sincere thank you to our:
🔹 Sponsors
🔹 Exhibitors
🔹 Speakers and panelists
🔹 Technical session chairs
🔹 Volunteers
🔹 Planning committee members
🔹 Attendees
Your support, expertise, and enthusiasm made DS&E 2026 a tremendous success.
As we reflect on an outstanding event, we’re already looking ahead to DS&E 2027 in New Orleans 🎷🎉, where we will continue building on this momentum, expanding opportunities for learning and networking, and bringing together the people and organizations driving the future of dredging, navigation, ports, and maritime infrastructure.
