2026 BC First Nations Forestry Conference Proceedings Report
Forest Nations Rising: From Strong Roots to Global Horizons
The 2026 BC First Nations Forestry Conference was hosted on the traditional, unceded territory of the Syilx (Okanagan) Nation in Kelowna, British Columbia.
Guided by the theme Forest Nations Rising: From Strong Roots to Global Horizons, the conference brought together First Nations, industry, government, sponsors, educational institutions, and partners to explore the future of forestry in British Columbia. Throughout the event, participants shared knowledge, strengthened relationships, and celebrated the growing leadership of First Nations in shaping a more resilient, sustainable, and collaborative forest sector.
Sessions explored First Nations ownership, stewardship economies, cultural heritage, wildfire resilience, forest modernization, certification, and global market opportunities, while highlighting the next generation of Indigenous leaders entering the sector. Across every conversation, one message remained clear: meaningful progress in forestry is built through partnership, accountability, and a shared commitment to future generations.
Whether you attended the conference or are exploring these conversations for the first time, the 2026 Proceedings Report captures the presentations, discussions, and key takeaways that defined this year’s event.
Inside the report, you’ll find session summaries, presentation resources, conference highlights, photos, and links to speaker presentations and videos. Together, these materials preserve the knowledge shared throughout the conference and serve as a resource for continued learning, collaboration, and action across British Columbia’s forest sector.
Share Your Feedback
Help us continue improving the BC First Nations Forestry Conference by sharing your feedback. Your responses will help us evaluate this year’s conference, identify opportunities for improvement, and shape future programming, speakers, networking opportunities, and conference experiences that better reflect the needs and priorities of First Nations, partners, and the forestry sector.
Our survey takes approximately two minutes to complete. As a thank you for your time, you’ll have the opportunity to enter to win an Okanagan Blanket.
Thank you for being part of another incredible year!
We’ll see you at the next BC First Nations Forestry Conference!
