National Forest Week 2025

National Forest Week is always a special time for us at the Creston Community Forest (CCF). This year’s student field trip once again showcased the best of learning, laughter, and community collaboration.

With local Grade 5 students and their teachers joining our crew, the forest became a classroom unlike any other. Guided by our CCF staff and community partners from Canfor, J.H. Huscroft, the Canyon/Lister Fire Department, BC Fisheries, and the Creston Valley Rod & Gun Club, students rotated through interactive learning stations that brought the forest to life.

From identifying trees and painting tree “cookies,” to learning how to use a compass through the forest, the day sparked curiosity and excitement about forestry and the natural world.

The kids’ wonder was infectious,

“I can see why they call it the Enchanted Forest.”

and “Do you think a bear would sleep in there?” were just a few of the comments from the students.

Learning stations gave students a hands-on look at biodiversity, the history of logging, how trees are interconnected, favorite foods for trout, how to count the age of a tree, and the art of compass navigation. The excitement was undeniable: children paused to admire moss-covered logs, talked about hunting and fishing with their classmates, and took in the forest’s sights and scents with wonder.

An outdoor lunch provided by our board members brought everyone together before the students headed back to school with a little mud on their boots, a lot of new knowledge, and a deeper appreciation for the forests that sustain our community.

We would like to thank the community partners listed above for taking time out to share the day and their knowledge with our local students.