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As part of the Creston Community Forest's continued goal to mentor a new generation of foresters, we would like to introduce our two summer students, Tuscany and Elissa. Having studied at UBC's Natural Resources Conservation program, Tuscany and Elissa will spend the summer in Creston assisting with our forest development, monitoring the Douglas-fir beetle program, over seeing the maintenance of hiking trails and helping to deliver forest education to both elementary and highschool students. Through hands-on field experience and community engagement, they will gain insight into sustainable forest management while contributing to important local projects. They have already been part of many projects we continue to work on as part of our forest management, along with other community organizations we dedicate our support. Welcome to the team Tuscany and Elissa!

We walked the same trail as they did in 1930. Our 'Artist Walk with a Forester' on the Thompson Pack Trail was a success today. It was fascinating for us to hear how artists see and experience our forests. Together, we discussed and walked the same trail built by foresters who travelled this rugged path to spend months stationed at the Mt. Thompson fire lookout. Using only hand saws, picks, and axes, they created the very trail we walked today. We stopped and took in the scent of the forest, the sounds of Sullivan Creek, and the filtering of the light through the forest canopy. Photos were taken of the tiniest of details to the largest of camera capacity. Among the forest education and bear aware workshop, laughter and insight was shared. We would like to send out a big Thank You to Dee Howard, Creston Coexistence Coordinator, for a hands on bear spray workshop that prepared us for bear encounters as well as what we can do to hike safely in our local forests. Thank You to our forest manager, Daniel Gratton, for not only the insight of the tiniest of plants but for sharing his knowledge of the many different species of trees that grow in this area, the history of the trail and for his time on a long weekend to explore the forest with a group of artists. Thank you to each of the artists, the three from Kutenai Art Therapy Institute (KATI) that drove from Nelson early this morning, and the friends and family that joined them. This hike was part of the 2026 Community Project - Healing Forests: in honour of what forests give us. The Creston Community Forest, in partnership with the Tilted Brick Gallery, invites artists across the Kootenays to submit work for “Healing Forests: in honour of what forests give us,” a juried exhibition opening in September 2026. For all details and deadlines, please visit our website: https://www.crestoncommunityforest.com/artprojecthealingforests

'Artist Walk with a Forester' sign-up is now open. We invite artists to join us and our Forest Manager along with Dee Howard (Co-existence Coordinator), with an interactive bear spray workshop at the beginning of hike, Sunday May 17th at 10am. This hike will be capped at 20 people but a wait list will be available. To book your spot on the list: https://mailchi.mp/93f04707ce57/artist-walk The Creston Community Forest & Tilted Brick Gallery announce a 2026 Juried Exhibition About the Project: The Creston Community Forest, in partnership with the Tilted Brick Gallery, invites artists across the Kootenays to submit work for “Healing Forests: in honour of what forests give us,” a juried exhibition opening in September 2026. The exhibition explores the many ways forests shape our lives: ecologically, economically, culturally, emotionally, and recreationally. Artists age 16+ and working in any medium are encouraged to participate. This exhibition celebrates that work and invites artistic reflection on the value of forests in daily life. 1st Prize: $500 2nd Prize: $300 3rd Prize: $200

We are a not-for-profit forest company who log to mitigate fires and contribute funds back into the community of Creston. Forest Operations We are deeply rooted in the values of our community. Silviculture, Harvesting and Fire Mitigation are sustainable treatment methods we practice to match with the community’s values. Read More Forest Education At the Creston Community Forest Corporation, we foster hands-on learning within our community. Learn more, about our exciting educational opportunities for secondary and post-secondary student. Read More Forest Recreation We are proud to build a network of scenic hiking trails in the Creston Valley area. We encourage people to enjoy each trail as part of their well-being and enjoyment. Read more for a full list of our six trails. Read More Billy Goat Bluffs Trail silviculture and summer students Birch Creek road Creston Community Forest_edited Billy Goat Bluffs Trail 1/14

Get involved with the Creston Community Forest! Join our Board, Volunteer, Come on a Field Trip, Check out our trails, and keep up to date on current events. You can also subscribe to our newsletter, for the most recent happenings! Contact Us STAY IN THE LOOP! Sign up for our newsletter below to stay updated on upcoming trail work, events, and more. Don't miss out on the latest news, opportunities to get involved and join our online community to be the first to know. Creston Community Forest Newsletter sign up link: Yes, I want the Newsletter

Get involved with the Creston Community Forest! Join our Board, Volunteer, Come on a Field Trip, Check out our trails, and keep up to date on current events. You can also subscribe to our newsletter, for the most recent happenings! Get Involved Explore Nearby Trails Explore the scenic trails of the Creston Community Forest and immerse yourself in nature's beauty! We proudly manage and maintain a variety of trails in the Creston area, including Lady Slipper, Thompson Rim Trail, Thompson Rotary Trail, Thompson Pack Trail, Big Bear Viewpoint, Billy Goat Bluffs, Gliders’ Point and the West Ridge Trail. Out There: The Creston Community Forest Trails ‘Many of the local trails pass through varying terrain including forest cover, below cliffs and scree slopes, and through other natural landscapes and terrain.’ By Ed McMackin, a biologist by training and a naturalist by nature In its initial years, the Creston Community Forest was committed to several goals, among which was to return into the community a major part of its profits. That was a difficult goal to meet in its beginning years, but now the tables have turned, as the Creston Community Forest has grown and been allotted more timberland, profits have increased, and now recreational aspects of the Kootenay Lake and Creston area are benefiting from a fresh supply of support and funding. Not only have existing trails been improved and new trails opened up, but there are enhancements including kiosks with descriptive maps, benches, picnic tables, and sturdy bridges. Signs along the trails also display information on the natural history of the area. Trails are alsocleared each spring, maintained, and regularly checked on as quickly as possible after storms. Many of the local trails pass through... (full article here ) STAY IN THE LOOP! Sign up for our newsletter below to stay updated on upcoming trail work, events, and more. Don't miss out on the latest news, opportunities to get involved and join our online community to be the first to know. Creston Community Forest Newsletter sign up link: Yes, I want the Newsletter Join us on a Field Trip Are you ready for an immersive adventure that will take you deep into the heart of our Community Forest? Our field trips offer a unique opportunity to connect with nature, learn about local ecosystems, and witness the awe-inspiring wonders that surround us. Whether you're a seasoned nature enthusiast or a curious beginner, come join us on a journey of discovery and unlock a deeper appreciation for the natural beauty in our very own backyard. For more information on forest education, email Daniel Gratton at: dgratton@crestoncommunityforest.com or call 250.402.0070 Volunteer with Us Volunteer on Work Bees: Are you ready to roll up your sleeves, grab a shovel, and make a tangible difference in our Community Forest? Our work bees offer an exciting opportunity to actively participate in the creation and maintenance of hiking trails. As a work bee volunteer, you will: Get hands-on experience in trail building and maintenance. Join our team of volunteers during scheduled work bees. Contribute to the development of hiking trails in our Community Forest. Learn practical skills related to trail construction, such as trail design, clearing vegetation, and installing trail markers. Enjoy the satisfaction of creating recreational opportunities for our community while preserving the natural beauty of the forest. Events While there may not be any current events or opportunities, we are continuously working on new initiatives and projects in our Community Forest. We value your interest in getting involved and appreciate your patience as we strive to create meaningful ways for you to contribute to our conservation efforts.