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- Burning of Debris Piles
This week (February 9th-16th), the Creston Community Forest (CCF) is planning to conduct more burning on Arrow/ Goat Mountain. * The goal is to remove the logging debris piles associated with the wildfire risk reduction work the CCF has been carrying out over the last 2 years. If conditions permit, expect to see larger columns of smoke on the upper portions of Arrow/ Goat Mountain. All debris piles are contained and surrounded by deeper snow, helping to remove the risk of fire spread.
- Creston Community Forest Douglas-fir Bark Beetle Program - 2024
With 10 liters of beetles collected, our year-long program combined traps, research, and collaborations to better understand and slow the spread of the Douglas-fir Bark Beetle. Find the results and what we are doing next by reading the summary below. Thank you to our Planning and Development Supervisor - Angela French, RFT - for sharing the following summary of the 2024 Creston Community Forests Douglas-fir Bark Beetle Program. Goal : The program aimed to reduce Douglas-fir bark beetle populations impacting Douglas-fir stands within the operating area. The focus was on slowing the spread of infestations, tracking beetle flight patterns, and monitoring population changes. Methodology: Trap Sites: Ten funnel trap sites were strategically selected based on proximity to affected or susceptible Douglas-fir stands and reserve areas. Additional factors like snowmelt timing, aspect, stand age, wind direction, and site accessibility were considered. Trap Setup: Each site had three 5-piece multitrap systems, placed a few meters apart to enhance mass trapping. The traps used a 3-part lure to attract and collect beetles, aiming to draw them away from vulnerable trees. Methylcyclohexen (MCH): Over 1000 MCH bubbles were distributed in susceptible stands to prevent beetle infestation. Research Collaboration: The program contributed to Canadian-wide bark beetle research by sending collected beetle samples to Dr. Christopher Keeling at the Laurentian Forestry Centre. His research on genetic biodiversity helps assess factors like cold tolerance and pest communication in bark beetles. Partnerships: Collaboration with the Selkirk Resource District and Stewardship allowed for discounted products and materials. The beetle data collected also contributed to monitoring infestations in the Selkirk District. Monitoring & Data Collection: From May 15 to August 19, 2024, 10 liters of bark beetles were collected. Bear damage at certain sites affected data accuracy, but high volumes were recorded in late May to mid-June and early to mid-July. This data will inform future management strategies. Future Plans: Funnel traps will continue to be placed at Goat Mountain, Mt. Thompson, and the Arrow Creek drainage to further monitor beetle populations and inform adaptive management.
- Part-time Office Administrator
The Creston Community Forest (CCF) is seeking a permanent part-time Office Administrator who will complete the administrative and bookkeeping duties for the company. The CCF is a not-for-profit company that has operated in the Creston Valley since 1997. Governed by a ten-person Board of Directors , the CCF is committed to sustainable forest management. Candidate and Responsibilities You are someone who understands the importance of being part of a professional and highly functioning workplace and possess a strong ability to interact positively with staff, board members and contractors. You are passionate about the community in which you live and work. Reporting to the Forest Manager, you will be responsible for: Full cycle accounting in QuickBooks Desktop – maintaining account payables and receivables, payroll, completing quarterly GST returns, remittance of payroll source deductions, maintaining log scale records, year-end accounting preparation and the generation of financial reports. Administrative tasks – answering phones, preparing monthly board meeting packages and responding to company e-mails. Qualifications and Experience Preference will be given to someone with the following qualifications and attributes: Post-secondary degree or diploma in Business Administration or Accounting. Previous office administration experience. Previous accounting experience, preferably in QuickBooks Desktop. Strong written and communication skills. Accountable, well-organized and professional when dealing with staff, board members, contractors and the public. Self- motivated and forward thinking. Knowledge of the forestry industry is an asset but not required. Hours of work will be 20-24 hours per week. Compensation for this position will commensurate your level of experience and be competitive with current industry standards ($29-34.00 /hour) . The CCF has a matching RRSP program and provides full employee benefits. Application Process The closing date for this job advertisement is March 3, 2025. Applicants can email a cover letter and resume with ‘ CCF Office Admin’ in the subject line to: dgratton@crestoncf.com . If you wish to submit your application in person, our office is located at 121 Northwest Blvd. Both your cover letter and resume must clearly indicate how you meet the qualifications listed above. We thank all who apply but only those selected for consideration will be contacted.
- BCCFA Community Forest Indicators Report 2024
The Creston Community Forest is a member of the BC Community Forest Association (BCCFA). The BCCFA is a voice for 60+ community forests throughout the province advocating for sustainable forest management. The annual Community Forest Indicators report (pictured in the photo) showcases the benefits that community forests provide. In this 2024 Report the following 18 Indicators are featured: INDICATORS Number of Jobs ................................................................. 12 Total Economic Activity.................................................. 14 Community Contributions ............................................ 15 Funds Leveraged .............................................................. 16 Cut Control.......................................................................... 17 Distribution of Log Sales................................................ 20 Investments in Intensive Silviculture ........................ 21 Economic Diversification ............................................... 22 Community Accountability........................................... 23 Public Engagement ......................................................... 24 Investments in Community Education ..................... 25 Investments in Recreation............................................. 26 Proactive Management of Wildfire Hazard ............. 27 Forest Worker Safety ....................................................... 28 First Nations Collaboration ........................................... 29 Management of Sensitive Areas ................................. 31 Investments in Forest Stewardship ............................ 33 Compliance with Environmental Standards ........... 34 To read the full British Columbia Community Forest Association Indicators Report for 2024, click here bccfa.ca.
- Meet our Newest Team Members: Erich and his pup Freya.
Meet Erich, our forest technician! With his passion for the great outdoors, Erich first joined the Creston Community Forest team in May 2022 contributing to the construction and maintenance of our hiking trails. In May 2024, he graduated from Selkirk College with a Forest Technology Diploma and now works as our forest technician gaining experience in development, forest measurements and silviculture. Erich recently enrolled with the Forest Professionals BC and has just begun the articling process that will lead to his status as a Registered Forest Technologist. Seen here with Erich is his sweet pup Freya, the newest member to the Creston Community Forest Team. We want to acknowledge his hard work and dedication to not only our community but towards his career goals. Congratulations Erich!
- Firewood Cutting Do’s and Don’ts
A friendly reminder: Firewood Cutting Do’s and Don’ts The Creston Community Forest (CCF) has observed pick-up trucks and other non-authorized vehicles driving through the ditchline into the wildfire risk reduction treatment areas located off the Big Bear Forest Service Road. We ask that your vehicles remain on the road if you are visiting the area to obtain fire wood. Here is what is allowed and not allowed when cutting firewood for personal use in the CCF: Do: 1. Request PERMISSION from the Forest Manager, Daniel Gratton of the Creston Community Forest, before cutting a tree within this area-based tenure by email at: dgratton@crestoncf.com 2. On an annual basis read, understand, fill out, sign and carry this free permit at all times while cutting or transporting firewood after you received permission from our Forest Manager, Daniel Gratton: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/farming-natural-resources-and-industry/natural-resource-use/firewood-permits/selkirk_free_use_permit.pdf?fbclid=IwAR1siWqsHYn4XKKSPPe2hKiRUGNwQFza3A_7fAaSLo95mUfCstHqB_sYTiI 3. Work safely, preferably in pairs. 4. Cut only dead or downed trees for firewood. 5. Leave decaying wood in place as they add to ecosystem function. 6. If purchasing firewood, ask where it came from to help keep firewood poachers accountable. 8. Help prevent the spread of insects, fungi, and other pathogens. Do Not: 1. cut any tree that has wildlife habitat characteristics as identified on the permit, or “WT” for Wildlife Tree, painted on it. 2. cut green trees for access. 3. leave garbage in the forest. 4. drive through the ditchline into a treatment area. 5. cut trees in an active treatment area. Photos from one of our project areas.
- Inspiring students to explore during National Forest Week
The Creston Community Forest had the pleasure of hosting nearly 75 elementary students on a field trip, September 26th, during National Forest Week. Since 2015, Forest Manager Daniel Gratton has organized a hands-on exploration of the forest, giving students a chance to learn about tree identification, biodiversity, and the important role forests play to enhance our communities and wildlife. The collaboration between J.H. Huscroft, Canfor, Rick Polzin Logging and the Community Forest Board of Directors allowed for another successful event which included compassing through a cutblock, exploring the interconnectedness of a forest stand, painting tree 'cookies', and learning about logging equipment. The hands-on experiences provided by our dedicated team and partners sparked curiosity about being in the forest and excitement for forestry. This event helps to foster a connection to nature and instills a sense of responsibility for our forests among these future stewards as the day ended with smiles, laughter, and a budding interest in forestry and in our forests. A few notable comments from the students were: “I love hunting in the forest with my grandpa.” “We hunt for mushrooms too.” “Look how beautiful it is.” “Do you think a bear would sleep in there?” “I love the smell.” “I like being in the forest.” The students, teachers and volunteers were treated to a picnic style lunch with barbequed hot dogs, juice boxes and snacks prepared and served by our Creston Community Forest Board Members. The success of this event reflects the passion and commitment of our community, ensuring that these students leave with a deeper understanding of our local forest ecosystems. Seeing the curiosity and energy from these young learners was inspiring, and it gives us so much hope for the future of forestry in BC. #NationalForestWeek #CrestonCommunityForest #FutureForesters #BCForestry Thank you to everyone who participated! Thank you to our volunteer partners: - Canfor: Matt Maddess and Ashleigh Harvison - J.H. Huscroft: Heidi Muller and Karl Sommerfeld - Rick Polzin Logging: Jessie Polzin and Oliver the dog - Community Forest Board: Tom Olenczuk, Brad Rae, Jim Elford and Robyn Usher
- Hydrometric station to monitor Big Bear Brook
The Creston Community Forest, working with a hydrologist from Saso Consulting, recently installed a hydrometric station to monitor Big Bear Brook. This station will provide essential data on creek discharge, and water level and temperature which will greatly improve our understanding of the Big Bear watershed. The Community Forest is committed to using this knowledge to support sustainable forestry practices that balance community needs with environmental stewardship.
- Remembrance Day
Let us express our deepest gratitude and appreciation for the veterans and current service members who have served and continue to serve Canada. In addition to our armed forces, we must also extend our heartfelt appreciation to the brave firefighters who risk their lives battling wildfires to protect our communities and natural landscapes. Their tireless efforts in the face of raging flames exemplify the spirit of selflessness and heroism. Together, their dedication and sacrifice have made Canada a better and safer place for us all.
- Wildfire Risk Reduction - Burning of Debris Piles.
We are planning to burn small debris piles created by our wildfire risk reduction projects. This will depend on the area experiencing good or fair ventilation for smoke to disperse well. Please expect to see smoke in the areas of Arrow Creek and Goat Mountain in the coming days. We are working to reduce the fuel load near communities prior to high fire danger season. Thank you.
- Mt.Thompson wildfire risk project now complete
Last Tuesday, our logging truck driver hauled one of the last load of logs from Mt. Thompson. Logging and hauling is now complete. Thank you for your patience while we completed our wildfire risk project. All hiking trails on Mt. Thompson are open to the public. Next stop...Peterson Creek.
- Thanksgiving
We are wishing all of you a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend with friends and family. As we celebrate Thanksgiving, we're reminded of how fortunate we are to work with nature and the people who love it. Take time this Thanksgiving to reconnect with nature and explore what’s right in our backyard, pictured here: Big Bear Viewpoint. Wishing you all a happy and peaceful Thanksgiving from the trails! #ThanksgivingInNature For detail to trail: https://www.crestoncommunityforest.com/big-bear-viewpoint