The SMART Rivers Conference is a biennial forum bringing together those involved in river transport from countries all over the world.

The SMART Rivers Conference started as an initiative of major international organisations in the field of Inland Water Transport to promote transport by barge, the first conference being held in 2005 in Pittsburgh. As from 2011, SMART Rivers has been placed under the umbrella of PIANC.

11^th International PIANC-SMART Rivers Conference

Memphis, Tennessee, USA – 8-12 September 2025

Smart Rivers 2025 is a premier international technical conference that attracts the top professionals in all aspects of inland and river transportation. Mark your calendar and join us to discuss and learn side-by-side with private sector, government, and academic leaders that are transforming the conversations and building a sustainable future in international river transportation. Grow your network and your skills as you participate in technical sessions, technical tours, short courses and special network events. The conference’s multi-lensed and transdisciplinary approach will capitalize on today’s opportunities and prepare participants for tomorrow’s challenges.

Visit the PIANC SMART-Rivers 2025 website HERE

Former Conferences:

•  10^th International PIANC-SMART Rivers Conference Nanjing, China – 18-21 October 2022
• 9^th International PIANC-SMART Rivers Conferenc Lyon, France – 30 September-3 October 2019 
• 8^th International PIANC-SMART Rivers Conference Pittsburgh, USA – 18-21 September 2017
• 7^th International PIANC-SMART Rivers Conference Buenos Aires, Argentina – 7-11 September 2015