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“Earth, Wind & Fire: Resilience and Recovery”

An upcoming symposium dedicated to the resilience and recovery of historic structures and landscapes following major natural disasters. The symposium will focus on the impacts of earthquakes, severe wind events (such as hurricanes and tornadoes), land fires fueled by wind, flooding, and sea-level rise. In addition to exploring best practices, innovative solutions, and lessons learned in safeguarding our cultural heritage related to these events.

Symposium Objectives

To share knowledge and experiences regarding the challenges and successes in restoring historic buildings and landscapes after natural disasters.
To highlight interdisciplinary approaches to resilience, including engineering, architecture, conservation, urban planning, and community engagement.
To foster collaboration among professionals, researchers, policymakers, and community leaders working in disaster recovery and heritage preservation.
To discuss policy frameworks, funding mechanisms, and advocacy strategies that support the protection and recovery of historic sites.

Topics of Interest

Assessment and documentation of damage to historic structures and landscapes
Innovative engineering and architectural solutions for disaster resilience
Case studies of recovery efforts after earthquakes, severe wind events, or wind-fueled land fires
Traditional and modern materials for restoration and retrofitting
Community engagement and stakeholder collaboration in recovery processes
Risk management and emergency preparedness for heritage sites
Policy, legal, and ethical considerations in post-disaster recovery
Landscape restoration techniques and ecological resilience
Digital tools and technologies for disaster assessment and recovery planning

Location and Date

The symposium is scheduled for March 12, 13 & 14, 2026 and will be held in Napa, California with both in-person and virtual presentations. With the opening reception being held on Thursday, March 12. Live symposium streaming is currently being studied and may be added. The symposium is not limited to WCAPT membership nor the Western Chapter locale. Selected virtual presenters may join from off-site locations and attendance is not necessary to participate.