In the heart of the American West, where water rights and agricultural policies are as vast and complex as the landscapes, a crucial gathering is set to take place. The 3rd Annual Western Water, Agricultural, and Environmental Law Conference, hosted by the National Agricultural Law Center and the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture Foundation, will convene in Reno, Nevada, on June 19-20. This year, the conference is placing a spotlight on a topic that often goes unnoticed but is vital to the agricultural sector: ethical communication with government agencies.
Lawson Fite, a seasoned attorney from Schwabe, Williamson and Wyatt, P.C., will lead one of two ethics sessions, focusing on the nuances of interacting with government regulators. Fite’s expertise lies in environmental and natural resources law, making him well-versed in the intricacies of navigating agency communications. His session will delve into the ethical obligations that come with these interactions, helping attendees identify and address potential pitfalls.
Effective communication with government agencies is a daily reality for many in the agricultural sector. However, it’s a task fraught with ethical considerations. Who is being represented in these communications? What are the rights and duties of the professionals involved? These are the questions Fite’s session aims to answer.
The session will cover a range of topics, from clarifying representation in agency communications to understanding the nature of government representations and professional duties owed to non-governmental clients. It’s a deep dive into the ethical landscape of agency interactions, providing attendees with practical insights and tools.
The conference, which also offers a livestream option, is designed to cater to a diverse audience, including attorneys, students, agricultural producers, and professionals. It promises to provide valuable insights into key legal and policy issues affecting agriculture in the Western United States. Moreover, it offers continuing legal education credit, as well as continuing education from the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers.
The implications of this conference are significant. As agricultural stakeholders increasingly engage with government agencies, understanding the ethical obligations that come with these interactions is more important than ever. This conference provides a unique opportunity to gain insights from an expert in the field, helping attendees navigate the complex ethical landscape of agency communications.
For those interested in attending, registration is available online at nationalaglawcenter.org/western2025. Whether you’re an attorney, a student, an agricultural producer, or a professional in the field, this conference promises to be a valuable learning experience. So, mark your calendars and get ready to dive into the world of ethical agency communications.