2026 BLS Research Conference — March 30 to April 1
The Bacterial Leaf Streak (BLS) Research Conference brings together researchers, extension specialists, breeders, diagnosticians, and stakeholders to share the latest advances in understanding, managing, and mitigating bacterial leaf streak of small grains. The meeting will feature invited talks, contributed presentations, discussion sessions, and an executive committee business meeting.
Conference Dates Time Venue
(Monday) March 30, 2026 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Main Conference Room, Woster Celebration Hall
(Tuesday) March 31, 2026 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM (includes evening reception) Main Conference Room, Woster Celebration Hall
(Wednesday) April 1, 2026 Executive Committee Business Meeting (invitation only) Conference Rm SRPA 236, Raven Precision Ag Building
Brookings Inn Resort
2500 6th St, Brookings, SD 57006
Full-service hotel with on-site dining; popular for conferences.
Hampton Inn & Suites Brookings
3017 Lefevre Dr, Brookings, SD 57006
Reliable option with complimentary breakfast; close to campus.
Garner Hotel
3020 Lefevre Dr, Brookings, SD 57006
Modern accommodations, business-friendly amenities.
Comfort Suites University
929 25th Ave, Brookings, SD 57006
Convenient campus access; good value for extended stays.
Participants are encouraged to book early due to limited availability during the spring conference season.
Conference meals and refreshments are currently being finalized.
Additional details will be shared with registered participants as arrangements are confirmed.
The closest major airport is Sioux Falls Regional Airport (FSD), located approximately 55 miles South of Brookings, SD.
Typical nonstop service from major hubs (Minneapolis, Denver, Chicago, Dallas)
Rental cars are readily available at the airport
Sioux Falls, SD → Brookings, SD 55 miles
Minneapolis–St. Paul, MN → Brookings, SD 215 miles
Fargo, ND → Brookings, SD 140 miles
Driving time from Sioux Falls to Brookings is approximately 1 hour
Primary route: I-29 North → Exit 132 → SD-14 West
Rideshare availability is limited. Renting a car is strongly recommended.
Parking is available near Woster Celebration Hall and throughout the South Dakota State University campus.
Specific parking guidance will be shared with registered participants closer to the meeting date.