A method for selecting a channel for group communications in a conventional multi-channel communication system comprises receiving, for a plurality of channels in the multi-channel communication system, a talkgroup assignment list for the channels that identifies a set of talkgroups assigned to use the corresponding channels. A subscriber unit receives talkgroup assignment lists for multiple different channels, determines a desired talkgroup, and selects a channel assigned to the desired talkgroup using the received talkgroup assignment. The talkgroup assignment list is developed for at least one channel in the multi-channel communication system and identifies a set of talkgroups assigned to use the corresponding channel. The list is transmitted for the channel to a subscriber unit and is used by the subscriber unit to register with the system and affiliate with a talkgroup supported by the channel in the conventional multi-channel communication system.