How is forestry regulated in Alberta, and what opportunities do Albertans have to participate in decisions about public forests?
In this Environmental Law Centre webinar, participants received an overview of Alberta’s forest law and regulatory framework, particularly the Forest Act and Crown timber dispositions, forest management planning, operating ground rules, reforestation and enforcement.
The webinar explored how Alberta’s forest system works across multiple layers of legislation, regulations, standards, guidelines and operational requirements. It also examined the role of Forest Management Agreements (FMAs), timber quotas and permits, and the translation of forest management plans into on-the-ground harvesting activities.
A key focus was the relationship between forests and broader environmental laws, including protections for wildlife, species at risk, fish and fish habitat, water and migratory birds. The discussion also considered the extent of public participation in forest management and access to forestry-related information.
Questions discussed during the webinar
- Are wildlife or nest surveys required before harvesting?
- Does an FMA exempt operators from other environmental legislation?
- Can the public participate in developing operating ground rules?
- What stewardship reporting is required, and where can the public access these reports?
- Were forest harvest plans removed following the 2021 regulatory changes?
- How have operating ground rules changed, and can FMA holders deviate from them?
Want to understand how Alberta’s forests are governed?
Watch the webinar to explore the legal framework, planning process and opportunities for public participation.
Featured Photo by Jawaad Soroardy on Unsplash
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