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Lands management and land use planning are distinct but interconnected fields, creating opportunities for planners and lands management professionals to learn from one another and work collaboratively in support of First Nation-led priorities.

Presented in partnership by the Canadian Institute of Planners (CIP) and the National Aboriginal Lands Managers Association (NALMA), this webinar will explore the relationship between lands management and professional planning from both a national perspective and a practice example, providing a national perspective on the field of First Nations Lands Management, as well as a look into ongoing planning work at Saskatchewan’s largest First Nation. The session will begin by introducing participants to the work of First Nation lands managers and the role of organizations such as NALMA in supporting First Nations and building capacity within communities.

Through a case study featuring a First Nation Lands Coordinator at Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation and a consulting professional planner, participants will hear a first-hand account that demonstrates how lands management and planning can complement each other. The speakers will explore their approach to land use planning and classification, navigating areas where their respective disciplines intersect, and building a working relationship grounded in knowledge transfer, capacity-building, and First Nation leadership.

Drawing on both the technical and relational dimensions of their work, the speakers will reflect on what makes this partnership successful, how planning expertise can support rather than prescribe community-led approaches, and what lands management professionals and planners can learn from one another. The session will conclude with a moderated discussion and audience Q&A.

The presentations will be followed by a moderated panel discussion and audience Q&A.

What you can expect:

- Understand the broad responsibilities of First Nations lands departments, and how First Nation perspectives on land stewardship, governance, development, and territory shape lands management practice.

- Understand how planners and First Nations lands management professionals can work collaboratively to identify planning priorities, build capacity, and support community-led planning projects.

- Understand the role of NALMA and its Regional Lands Associations in supporting the profession of First Nations lands management and supporting capacity development across First Nations in Canada.

Speakers:

Micheala Merasty, Land Use Planner, Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation

Micheala Merasty is a member of Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Biology from the University of Saskatchewan and combines environmental science experience with community planning to support sustainable, culturally informed growth across PBCN communities.

Mitchell Avis, RPP, MCIP, MSc., Avision Planning

Mitchell Avis offers over 13 years of planning experience, including 10 years supporting First Nations and organizations. His practice specializes in land use planning, community engagement, facilitation, policy development, and supporting First Nation-led governance and lands initiatives.

Moderator:

Alex Marques, MScPl, Land Use Planning Program Specialist, National Aboriginal Lands Managers Association

Alexander Marques, based in Toronto, is the Land Use Planning Program Specialist for NALMA, developing and delivering training to lands managers nationwide. As a part of his role at NALMA, he administers technical support and a funding program supporting First Nations LUP work across Canada.

Opening Remarks:

Theodore Merasty, Director of Lands and Resources, Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation and NALMA/SALT Chair

Director of Lands and Resources for Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation from Pelican Narrows. Chair of NALMA and Chair of Saskatchewan Aboriginal Land Technicians Inc (SALT). Worked in lands issues and environmental management since 1998.