2026 USTFA Fall Conference

Join us for the USTFA conference in Twin Falls - featuring tours, expert speakers, and networking opportunities!

The 2026 United States Trout Farmers Association (USTFA) fall conference will be held at the Canyon Crest Event Center in Twin Falls, Idaho September 15 – 17, 2026, with a farm tour of Riverence on the last day of the conference (September 17). The conference is a wonderful opportunity to meet fellow trout producers, researchers, and vendors in a fun, relaxed setting.

In addition to the conference, a tour of Merck Animal Health's Biomark in Boise, Idaho will be available to interested guests the day before the conference (September 14). View full details below.

Conference attendees receive a discounted lodging rate of $169/night at Towneplace Suites Marriott (175 Avenida del Rio Twin Falls, Idaho 83301). Please book by August 14, 2026 to ensure discounted rate.

September 14: Pre-Conference Tour of Merck Animal Health's Biomark

Join the Merck Animal Health Aqua team for an exclusive pre-conference tour of their U.S. headquarters and manufacturing facilities in Boise, Idaho. This session highlights the Biomark business, offering insights into identification technology applications and a look at our current partnerships. The experience concludes with a guided walkthrough of our manufacturing floor and live technical demonstrations.

September 15 - 17: USTFA Conference

This year’s event features an expansive program including expert speaker presentations on the latest industry trends, a vibrant trade show showcasing innovative products and services, and our signature annual auction. Attendees will also enjoy numerous networking opportunities through our scheduled social events - the president’s reception, evening happy hours, and our celebratory banquet. Whether you are looking to gain technical insights or connect with fellow producers and partners, this conference offers a comprehensive forum to support and grow the trout farming community.

September 17: Riverence Tour

To conclude the conference, attendees are invited to an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of Riverence’s farms and facilities in the scenic Magic Valley surrounding Twin Falls, Idaho. This tour offers a unique opportunity to witness firsthand the innovative practices and advanced technology utilized by the largest producer of trout in the Americas. Participants will explore the cold-water raceways and spring-fed systems that define their sustainable aquaculture model, gaining insights into their genetic research and high-standard production methods. This immersive experience provides a practical look at large-scale industry operations while offering a valuable chance for peer-to-peer learning in a world-class farming environment.

Sponsorships

Partner with the USTFA to elevate your brand visibility within the trout farming community. By becoming a conference sponsor, your company or organization will receive prominent recognition throughout the conference, demonstrating your commitment to the industry and ensuring your message reaches key decision-makers and producers. To become a sponsor, please select the sponsorship add-on during registration or contact the USTFA office at: ustroutfarmersassociation@gmail.com

Presenters

We are looking for industry experts and researchers to share their insights, technical knowledge, and success stories at our fall conference. If you have a compelling presentation on trout production, sustainability, or market trends, we invite you to submit a proposal and contribute to the collective growth of our field. Please contact the USTFA office if you are interested in presenting: ustroutfarmersassociation@gmail.com

Trade Show Vendors

Secure your booth at our annual trade show to showcase your latest innovations, products, and services directly to a targeted audience of aquaculture professionals. This is a premier opportunity to engage with attendees face-to-face, generate new leads, and strengthen your position in the marketplace. To reserve your booth, please select 'Trade Show Vendor' when registering.

Auction Items

Support the USTFA by donating to our signature annual auction, a highlight of the conference banquet. Whether it is specialized equipment, unique experiences, or everyday goodies, your contribution directly funds our association’s vital advocacy and education efforts for trout farmers across the country. To submit your item(s), please click here.

KEY DATES:

August 10, 2026:

Sponsorships and Vendor Registration Closes

September 1:

General Conference Registration Closes

September 14:

Merck Animal Health's Biomark Tour in Boise, Idaho

September 15 - 17:

USTFA Conference

September 17:

Riverence Tour