Forest professionals are increasingly working on land or with communities where multiple legal and governance systems apply or are emerging. We see this at several levels: provincial, First Nations, and local and community levels.

Societal desires for forested land management are changing in ways that are not always compatible with existing provincial law or standards. In essence, current standards and regulations may not be keeping pace with the desire of communities.

These conflicts are manifested in multiple examples ranging from whether or not old growth trees should be harvested, to how fire-scarred landscapes should be restored, to what species should be planted for reforestation, to how communities can maintain access to forested land for cultural, recreation, and hunting opportunities.

When professional obligations require compliance with provincial law and standards, but a community expresses expectations that differ—and may not yet hold recognized legal authority—what does responsible, ethical practice look like today?

Through a panel discussion, this session will focus on practical advice for forest professionals working in this space now—not just where things might be heading in the future. The conversation will offer real-world insights on how to work respectfully, lawfully, and professionally in the current context of overlapping and sometimes conflicting community expectations.

Learning Outcomes
By the end of this session, participants will:

1. How to exercise due diligence when operating across multiple jurisdictions and in legally pluralistic environments, including those governed by Indigenous law.
2. How to align professional practice with evolving legal, cultural, and governance relationships.
3. Utilizing the professional code of ethical and professional conduct to uphold the public interest and reconciliation commitments.
4. Strategies for negotiating with multiple parties and levels of government.