Protecting Bats Through Science and Collaboration

This year marked my third time attending the Northeast Bat Working Group (NEBWG) annual meeting, held in Saratoga Springs, New York. Over the past few years, this three-day conference has become a valuable space for connection, learning, and collaboration among bat biologists, researchers, and educators from across the region. Once again, the meeting was both engaging and energizing, offering new perspectives while building on conversations from years past.

A major focus of this year’s discussions was the growing role of offshore wind energy development and its potential impacts on bat populations. Presentations explored what is currently known about bat activity offshore, collision risks, and data gaps that remain as offshore wind projects continue to expand along the East Coast. These conversations were framed alongside other ongoing threats such as white-nose syndrome, habitat loss, climate change, and interactions with onshore infrastructure, highlighting the need to balance renewable energy development with effective wildlife conservation.

Beyond the research, NEBWG continues to be an important forum for collaboration and professional connection. Reuniting with colleagues and meeting new conservation partners from across the Northeast reinforced the value of working together toward shared conservation goals. Each year, this meeting strengthens the network of professionals dedicated to bat conservation and highlights the collective effort needed to address the complex challenges bats face today.