This session will feature presentations aimed at understanding the fundamental mesoscale processes involved with interactions between inhomogeneous and/or contrasting surface conditions and convection initiation and convective organization. Specific topics solicited include (i) mesoscale processes along the coast, especially sea breezes/sea breeze interactions with convection initiation and organization; (ii) mesoscale processes associated with terrain, including contrasting mountainous and plains regions and their impact on convection; (iii) mesoscale processes associated with convection interactions with contrasting underlying land surfaces, including urban/rural, desert/oasis, forested/grassland, etc.; and (iv) field campaigns dedicated to observing these types of interactions. Studies involving numerical model simulations, observational datasets, and theory are all encouraged.