Beneath The Oaks Symposium

Beneath the Oaks Symposium

Thursday, October 15, 2026  

4:00-8:00PM

Preston Montague will speak at 7:00PM

Across the country, a growing urban environmental movement is changing the way communities think about landscapes, infrastructure, and the role cities can play in supporting ecological health.

As the keynote speaker for the 2026 Beneath the Oaks Symposium, landscape architect Preston Montague will explore how the lessons of native plant advocates, ecological designers, and conservationists are moving beyond the residential garden and into commercial projects, public spaces, and municipal policy.

Through examples from his work with public agencies, consultants, and communities, Preston will examine how thoughtful design and collaborative partnerships can help cities create landscapes that do more than look beautiful. These spaces can support biodiversity, strengthen habitat connections, improve environmental health, and deepen the relationship between people and the natural world.

The presentation will also consider the role of policy in shaping greener communities, including efforts to revise municipal ordinances and development practices in ways that better support native plants, ecological function, and long-term resilience.

Attendees will leave with a broader understanding of how design, advocacy, and policy can work together to transform urban landscapes into living systems that are more connected to the ecosystems around them.

To learn more visit our Beneath the Oaks Symposium Page

Thank you to our Presenting Sponsor Charleston Aquatic & Environmental