2nd Annual Think Natives First Plant Conference

Not the Exception, but the Norm

Building on the success of last year’s Think Natives First^tm Plant Conference, this year’s event brings a stronger industry focus with expanded learning opportunities for Civil Engineers, Landscape Architects, designers, growers, contractors, and maintenance professionals.

The 2026 theme, “Specify It Right: Native Plants from Plan to Performance,” centers on practical, real-world strategies for integrating native plants into successful, high-performing projects. Attendees will have the opportunity to earn PDH/CEUs while learning the importance of writing native-forward specifications, aligning plant selection with stormwater and site goals, reducing long-term maintenance costs, and navigating challenges like plant availability and value engineering.

Through keynote presentations, breakout sessions, and collaborative discussions, the conference connects the professionals who specify projects with those who grow, install, and maintain them, creating a shared path toward more resilient, sustainable, and economically viable landscapes.

Join industry leaders and environmental professionals for a day of actionable learning, meaningful networking, and solutions that benefit both projects and the planet.

Get Involved

We’re bringing together the professionals and advocates shaping the future of sustainable landscapes for conversations that spark collaboration, practical solutions, and real industry change.

Packages vary, but may include up to the following: 

• One (1) ticket to the full conference, presented by Native Forest Nursery
• Access to the Exhibitor Hall, spnsored by Roundstone Native Seeds, LLC 
• The after-conference networking event*, sponsored by The Long Drink
• Light refreshments throughout the day
• Lunch by Marlow's Tavern, sponsored by The Long Drink
• Up to seven (7) PDHs/CEUs, with certificate following the conference, provided by Roundstone Native Seeds, LLC
• Listing on EMMA, the Eco-Map of Metro Atlanta (where applicable)
• Complimentary membership to the TNF Green Coalition ($50 value; kicking off Fall 26)

*Due to restrictions on campus at GTC, our after conference networking get-together, sponsored by The Long Drink Co., will be held at the Overstory Rooftop Bar, Westin Sugarloaf, 6450 Sugarloaf Parkway, 9th Floor. If admission is included with your conference package/ticket, an additional reservation is required. The link will be emailed to you after you reserve your conference ticket/package.

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Register as a vendor/exhibitor to showcase your solutions to an engaged audience actively seeking sustainable products and services. 

Exhibitor/Vendor Space : $350  SOLD OUT FOR 2026

Each space is provided with: 

• 6' table
• Two (2) chairs
• Up to two (2) admission tickets (a $300 value; see above for what is included)
• Listing in the 2026 participant directory shared out to all attendees after the conference
• Complimentary membership to the TNF Green Coalition ($50 value; kicking off Fall 26)

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Sponsorship opportunities are available at multiple levels to fit every budget.  SOLD OUT FOR 2026

Our Why

This conference seeks to understand, "What can we do to ensure the best plants and processes for our clients, our business, and our planet?" Be part of the conversation.

Root Local is NOT the expert; we are the backbone organization supporting the understanding and adoption of the yards and greenspaces of the future - living, thriving, and sustainable environments. All proceeds support Root Local’s mission to connect people, businesses, and communities to local environmental action and measurable impact across Metro Atlanta.