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The Creston Community Forest & Tilted Brick Gallery announce 2026 jurried exhibition: 'Healing Forests: in honour of what forests give us.' Artists across the Kootenays are invited to submit work for this juried exhibition opening in September 2026. The exhibition explores the many ways forests shape our lives: ecologically, economically, culturally, emotionally, and recreationally. Artists of all ages and working in any medium are encouraged to participate. This exhibition celebrates that .. 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 Download Download STEPS TOWARDS ENTERING A JURIED PIECE 1. Read & Share the 'Call to Artists' Please read and share this 'Call to Artists' document, it is a PDF. 4. Create and Notice Deadlines Please note all deadlines below and on media kit. Happy Creating!! 2. Read the Guidelines This list of guidelines is a PDF to be filled out and emailed to Alana at the CCF, click here 5. Sign-Up for our May 'Artist Walk with a Forester' The Creston Community Forest invites artists to join our Forest Manager and wildlife coexistence expert on a trail we manage, showcasing its history and beauty. (Click here to sign up & save your spot) 3. Read the Media Kit for all Details This Media Kit contains information for both media and artist. It contains all contact info. 6. Submit your Art Piece This link is for you to submit photos of your final art piece to be juried for this exhibit. Be sure to save each image label with your first and last name to keep it organized with your submission. KEY DATES Call to Artists: March 2026 Book your spot on our 'Artist Walk with a Forester': May 2026 Submission deadline: June 15th Artist notification date: July 29th Artwork delivery date: September 12th Opening night : Friday September 18th. Open to the public. This is also the kick-off to National Forest Week Exhibition dates: September 18th to October 17th Open to the public. Artwork pickup date: October 18th - 24th (or by arrangement) Sign-up for our quarterly newsletter to stay in touch We send out our quarterly newsletter with photos and content to the most current projects, milestones, and activities during that season. Simply. Easy. Connection. Get Updates Get the latest news & updates. Subscribe to our newsletter. Subscribe

We are focused on managing our community forest now for future generations. With over 21,000 hectares of land in the Creston Community Forest, we take on the role of forest stewardship with a commitment to education, recreation, and wildfire risk reduction. Our primary objectives are to sustainably manage these community forest, promoting ecosystem resiliency while fostering a thriving timber industry that benefits the entire Creston Community. Managing Our Community Forest for Fut ure Generations Nestled between the Purcell and Selkirk Mountains, w e are a not-for-profit forest corporation managing the Creston Community Forest. Our focus is forest management, education, recreation and community resiliency for future generations. Sign Up for Monthly Newsletter What is a Community Forest? A Community Forest is an area-based forest tenure awarded by government to communities to enhance their local control over forest management. Community forests create local jobs and keep profits within the community. We manage over 21,000 hectares of land with primary objectives to promote a healthy, sustainable community forest ecosystem, while fostering a thriving timber industry that benefits the entire Creston Community. Creating local jobs, supporting industries, and generating revenue that directly benefits our community, our goal is to create a resilient, sustainable forest for our community to enjoy and engage the next generation of stewards who will shape the future of our forests. FOREST MANAGEMENT Committed to managing our community forest for future generations : innovative and sustainable logging, preserving healthy forests, continuous recreational and employment benefits, wildlife habitat enhancement, and wildfire risk reduction. More Info EDUCATION Dedicated to expanding the concepts of a healthy forest: benefits of a healthy ecosystem, innovative techniques used in forestry, biodiversity, wildlife and watersheds, and our need to sustain healthy practices in the forest. More Info RECREATION Creating safe spaces to enhance your hiking experience: bridge development, trailhead kiosk with maps, developed trails, lookout points, maintenance on existing trails, over 35 kilometres of trails and planning for future trails. More Info Sign Up for Monthly Newsletter Latest News The Creston Community Forest & Tilted Brick Gallery announce a 2026 Juried Exhibition. Kidd Creek 2025 Wildfire Area & Selective Fire Salvaged Timber Forestry Road Safety Notice: active forestry road safety tips More News & Stories Click HERE Wildfire Information Province of British Columbia BC Wildfire Service Wildfire Map, Evacuations, Fire Bans, Report a Fire Creston Community Forest Wildfire Risk Reduction Programs & Pile Burn Sites 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

Firewood cutting for personal use in the Creston Community Forest is permitted only under these specific conditions: Firewood Information We are a not-for-profit forest company who log to mitigate fires, keep our forest healthy and contribute funds back into the community of Creston. First Steps for Firewood Moving firewood can spread invasive species and diseases such as the Douglas-fir beetle which is the most prevalent concern in our area. B.C.'s forests are threatened by insects that can damage trees. "The issues BC and Alberta are facing is that the winters are not cold enough, long enough to kill the insects and so the populations are increasing, along with trees being more stressed out with drought and more impact from more beetles, we’re experiencing more [forest] mortality," says our Forest Planning and Development Supervisor, Angela French. Moving firewood from one area to another increases the risk of spreading disease, fungi and pests. Firewood cutting for personal use in the Creston Community Forest is permitted only under these specific conditions: 01 Permission Personal permission is granted from our Forest Manager, Daniel Gratton, before cutting a tree within our Creston Community Forest area-based tenure. Contact information is listed below in image and in our 'Contact Us' section in footer of page or menu tab. ** Please read all Firewood Regulations below. 03 Personal Firewood 02 Free Permit Annually, make sure to read, understand, fill out, sign, carry and follow your free permit at all times while cutting or transporting firewood: SELKIRK FREE USE PERMIT FOR FIREWOOD 2025 for Domestic Purposes Only Firewood cut in CCF is for personal use only and not being sold. See permit for allowable amount per person. The Permittee accepts all responsibility and liability as a result of the firewood harvesting and transport under this Permit. Creston Community Forest accepts no liability for loss, damage to property, personal injury or death resulting from activities undertaken by the Permittee in harvesting firewood or in travel to and from the Permit area. Collecting Firewood in the Creston Community Forest (the Selkirk Forest District): WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW : Did you know that you need permission to collect firewood from our forestry blocks? This permission comes in the form of a Free Use Permit for Firewood – for Domestic Purposes Only. This permit is free of charge and valid only within the Selkirk Forest District, which includes the Arrow, Boundary, Kootenay Lake, and Creston areas. WHAT DOES THE PERMIT ALLOW? This permit authorizes you to: • Collect dead and downed wood only (no live trees or standing dead permitted) • Gather up to 5 cords per calendar year (approx. 18 cubic metres or 6–8 pick-up loads) • Use the wood for personal, domestic use only—not for resale or commercial purposes IMPORTANT REGULATIONS TO FOLLOW: When collecting firewood, the following rules apply under Section 48(1)(b) of the Forest Act: • You must fill out, sign, and carry your permit with you while cutting or transporting firewood. • You must be able to produce your permit if asked by a Natural Resource Officer, Conservation Officer, or Peace Officer • The permit is not transferable • Cut only DEAD conifer trees (standing or down). Conifer trees that have been blown down or broken off, shall ONLY be cut for firewood if there are no green needles left on the tree(s). No cutting of deciduous trees is allowed under this permit. • Cutting of any decked logs is PROHIBITED and may be subject to criminal charges of theft under the Criminal Code of Canada. • Wildlife Values are to be recognized. No trees greater than 50 cm (approximately 20 inch) in diameter as measured at stump height (30cm from germination) shall be cut under this permit. Care shall also be taken to not cut, damage or remove trees showing signs of wildlife use (see last page). Watch especially for trees posted with a “Wildlife Tree” sign. It is an offense under the Wildlife Act to destroy any active bird nest. Look carefully before you cut! ** See image of Wildlife Tree Characteristics on the Permit. • PERMISSION MUST FIRST BE GRANTED from the Creston Community Forest before cutting a tree within these area based tenures using this permit. • The debris must be cleared from roads, roadside ditches, culvert inlets and outlets prior to leaving the area with a load of firewood. • Note: whenever you cut, you should have at least one functional shovel and one fire extinguisher present at all times. • Follow all posted instructions in respect to the use of the road. Do not block roads under active use with your vehicle or firewood. Work safe and drive carefully. This permit is issued under the Forest and Range Practices Act (FRPA) and associated regulations. Permit holders are expected to collect responsibly, avoid damage to the land, and leave no trace. Please see the map of permit required area below. HOW TO GET YOUR FREE USE PERMIT? To make things easy, we’ve created a link for you above as 02 Firewood Permit Please read all instructions carefully before heading out. Our goal is to keep firewood collection safe, sustainable, and respectful of the land we all share. CRESTON COMMUNITY FOREST - FIREWOOD PERMIT MAP Highlighted in Yellow Firewood Do's Do: Work and fall safely, preferably not alone. Falling is risky business without the proper skill, knowledge, and safety gear. Only dead or downed trees may be cut for firewood, though often these trees and logs are retained for structural diversity purposes and are a part of the larger ecosystem resilience lens that we manage the forest through. Leave decaying wood in place as they add to ecosystem function by providing biodiversity in structure, and nutrient cycling. Prevent the spread of insects, disease, and other pathogens by being educated about what may have caused the trees mortality, and possible risks of bringing the pathogens to your property. Do: Do: Do: Firewood Dont's Cut any tree that has wildlife habitat characteristics as identified on the permit, or “WT” for Wildlife Tree, painted on it. These have been retained for the specific values and features they provide for wildlife in the area. Cut any trees within a Wildlife Tree Patch. These areas are legally retained areas of the tenure that have special features important to be maintained for ecosystem biodiversity. Cut green trees for access. Green trees are actively managed with long-term, sustainable practices in mind. The reasons are specific to the site. For more information contact CCF forestry staff. Leave garbage in the forest. These areas are homes to wildlife, are in our backyards, and are not a dumping ground for anyone. Drive through the ditch line into a treatment area. Ditch lines are designed for managing water movement in specific areas. Degrading the shape, direction, of filling with woody material prevents the flow of water and could cause damage to the access structures (roads) and watersheds by contributing to increased sedimentation in drinking water. Cut trees in an active treatment area. Trees under active cutting permits have specific plans that need to be followed by the hired contractor. Cutting trees that are not meant to be cut can cause deviations from plans and operations that prevent our management objectives from being achieved. Do not: Do not: Do not: Do not: Do not: Do not: If you’re unsure where not to go, contact the office for more information. If purchasing firewood, ask where it came from to help keep firewood poachers accountable. Let’s work together to ensure our forests are safely and sustainably managed for the future of our community. Do Not Live Cedar Cut 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

The Creston Community Forest envisions healthy forests with social, ecological, and economic benefits. We prioritize non-timber resources and local community input in our harvesting plans to make this vision a reality. Our community forest allows the Creston Valley to guide land-use decisions, respecting local interest and ecological integrity. Who We Are The Creston Community Forest envisions healthy forests with social, ecological, and economic benefits. We prioritize non-timber resources and local community input in our harvesting plans to make this vision a reality. Our community forest allows the Creston Valley to guide land-use decisions, respecting local interest and ecological integrity. Our guiding principles outline our long-term goals: Manage forest resources for long-term community benefit. Operate the community forest as a viable forestry enterprise. Educate the public on the community forest and Creston's forest management. Enhance partnerships with local First Nations. Develop a timber harvesting schedule for the next 5–10 years. These goals guide our planning and decision-making, ensuring we prioritize actions based on community needs and reflect local values and concerns. Resources / Links Guiding Principles Management Plan 2024 - 2029 Forest Stewardship Plan Forest Stewardship Plan Firewood Permit Policy Manual History Creston Community Forest’s history can be traced back to January of 1996, when the B.C. government announced the availability of a Forest Licence to harvest 15,000 cubic metres annually in areas near Creston, including the Arrow Creek watershed. Concerns about water quality led five Creston organizations to apply for the licence. They were granted a 15-year forest licence, forming the Creston Valley Forest Corporation. In October 2008, the Creston Valley Forest Corporation received a Probationary Community Forest Agreement, which later became a 25-year community forest agreement, leading to the formation of the Creston Community Forest. In 2016, the community forest expanded its area and saw an increase in the Allowable Annual Cut, which now stands at 25,000 cubic metres annually. This rich history showcases the power of community collaboration and the dedication of those who strive to balance environmental stewardship with sustainable economic practices. Meet the Team To ensure smooth operations, the community forest has three permanent employees: a Forest Manager, Forest Technician , and an Office Administrator. All other operational work, communications/marketing, logging and tree planting, is contracted to local contractors based in the area. This approach supports local businesses and fosters community involvement in the forest management process. Forest Manager Daniel Gratton, RPF Forest Technician Erich Endersby, TFT Office Administrator Alana Sargent Communications / Marketing Sharlyn Carter The Creston Community Forest is governed by a ten-member Board of Directors. The board consists of five members from the community and one representative from each shareholder. Our shareholders include: Town of Creston Regional District of Central Kootenay Wildsight E rickson Community Association Trails for Creston Valley Society SHAREHOLDER DIRECTORS GITTE GROVER Wildsight JOHN CHIS AM ORE SECRETARY Regional District of Central Kootenay KEITH BALDWIN VICE-CHAIR Town of C reston JACOB EWASHEN Trails for Creston Valle y Societ y BRAD RAE Erickson Community Association COMMUNITY DIRECTORS AT LARGE TOM OLENCZUK CHAIR ANN DEATHERAGE ROBYN USHER JIM ELFORD WAYNE HARRIS Board meetings are held on the last Thursday of every month. Decision-making is determined by consensus (60 per cent) and all communication is recorded in Board Meeting Minutes. 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.

Creston Valley FireSmart Resiliency Committee Photo: SIFCO Hope is not a plan - together we can take action. Local FireSmart Resiliency Committees strengthen collaboration between local partners to coordinate, plan and share information on how to successfully implement a joint strategy for their community based on the seven FireSmart disciplines. In 2022 in the Creston Valley, the Lower Kootenay Indian Band, municipal and provincial governments, and partnering forestry licensees established an approach to wildfire risk reduction that is both inclusive and innovative. 1. Ask: "how do we reduce the risk of wildfire spreading through our Community and Forest?" Answer: Attend our open house to ask questions, sign-up for a FireSmart Assessment, and to understand how you can play a role in it! 2. Create a Plan At the beginning of each wildfire season, the Creston Community Forest and partners host an Open House for the community. The Creston Valley FireSmart Resiliency Committee will attend the Open House hosted by the Creston Community Forest and the Creston Valley Farmers Market. The goal of the Open House is to bring together wildfire and wildlife practitioners and educators, government representatives, local forestry licensees and community members to discuss, learn, share and explore what work is happening in the Creston Valley and how you can play a part in making your home, community, and forest more resilient to wildfire. Open House - 2024 Open House - 2024 Open House - 2024 Open House - 2024 Be Prepared. Northwest Territories Wildfire 2023 - Highway 1 3. Connect with us Wildfire Risk Reduction in our Forests and Community - Committee Partners Wildfires are a growing concern in British Columbia, with major impacts felt by Indigenous and rural communities located in fire-prone ecosystems. Learning to live with fire by creating fire resilient communities is essential for our wellbeing. In the Creston Valley, Managed Forests are often located at the interface between wilderness and settlements known as the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) and play a vital role in mitigating severe wildfires. The goal of wildfire risk reduction projects on the forestry scale is to reduce the forest fuel load to prevent a severe crown fire from entering the community, which helps to safeguard homes and properties. The Creston Valley FireSmart Resiliency Committee is actively involved in wildfire planning and preparedness, demonstrating leadership in both the proactive planning and highlighting its commitment to community safety. Check out the video below to learn where the partner areas are located in the Creston Valley and the work that is underway. The Creston Valley FireSmart Resiliency Committee 4. Save the number to call To report a wildfire call the Southeast Fire Centre with *5555 4. Save: Click here to add the *5555 to your mobile phone and save as "WILDFIRE - Creston Valley" One click to make it easy for you. 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

The Gliders' Trail in the Creston Community Forest, BC GLIDERS’ POINT The Creston Community Forest has completed the extension to the West Ridge Trail that was built in 2019. This new trail provides a more direct and scenic hike to Gliders’ Point (the old hang gliding site). The West Ridge Trail now starts at km 1.5 on the Sullivan Creek Trail (look for post sign). The Sullivan Creek Trail starts at km 1.7 on the Mt Thompson Forest Service Road. Total distance to Gliders’ Point is 3.3 km (1.5 km on the Sullivan Creek Trail and 1.8 km on the West Ridge Trail). For more adventurous hikers, the West Ridge Trail continues to the top of Mt Thompson and the Rim Trail (total one way distance of 6 km). Enjoy the new trail and the picnic site at Gliders’ Point. Use the trail with care. In May of 2020, a picnic table, fire ring and bench were flown via helicopter to the old hang gliding site now known as Gliders’ Point. The site provides a beautiful view of the valley. It is often frequented by wildlife and is a habitat for Mountain Goats. The historic hang gliding ramps were built from wood in the early 1980’s as a launching site from Mount Thompson. Tricky winds posed a problem for many of the hang gliders and therefore this site was not frequently used. Do not litter; pack out all garbage Do not cut live trees or dead snags Do not gather downed woody debris Build fires only in fire ring with provided firewood or bring your own Make sure campfire is out before leaving Practice bear avoidance (hike in groups, make noise) and carry bear spray Do not disturb the wood from the old hang gliding ramps Be aware of steep drop offs at view points and picnic site Please note there is no washroom at Gliders’ Point or on the trail If any issues or concerns with Gilders’ Point, please call the Community Forest at 250.402.0070 . Trails Lady Slipper Trail Thompson Rotary Trail West Ridge Trail Thompson Rim Trail Thompson Pack Trail Billy Goat Bluffs Big Bear Viewpoint Gliders’ Point 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

The Thompson Rotary Trail in the Creston Community Forest, BC THOMPSON ROTARY TRAIL The Thompson Rotary Trail is a short, yet scenic trail that was developed by the Creston Rotary Club in 2012. The trail was located and laid out by Bob Griffith with the whole club involved in the building of the trail over weekend work bees throughout the summer of 2012. Another Rotarian, Werner Allmeritter built the beach that is anchored to solid rock at a major view point. This trail takes you through beautiful Douglas Fir–Ponderosa Pine forests with several viewpoints overlooking the Creston Valley. Red-tailed hawks, Arrow-leaved Balsalm Root and many other features are present that make this trail a great afternoon hike. The bench and best viewpoint is .5 km from the upper trailhead off of the Mt Thompson FSR or .8 km from the lower trailhead off of the Pack Trail. Access: From the Creston Valley Visitor Center, head southeast on Highway 3 towards Cranbrook. At roughly 5.8 km, turn right at Canyon-Lister Road. Continue on this road, and turn left onto Whimster Road after about 1 km. Follow Whimster Road until it’s end – keep left to continue onto Mount Thompson FSR. For access to the lower trailhead, park at 1.7 km on the Thompson FSR at the access point for the Sullivan Creek Trail. Go right or uphill on the Pack Trail immediately in front of the kiosk. Continue on the Pack Trail to about 2.5 km (or about 1 km from the kiosk) to the intersection with the Rotary Trail. For access to the upper trail head, follow the Thompson FSR to the large parking area at about 3.5 km marked with a large sign “Thompson Rotary”. Trailhead access from town: 20-30 minutes Hiking Time (Return): 1.5 hours Elevation Gain: 310 meters Distance (Return): 2.6 km Trails Lady Slipper Trail Thompson Rotary Trail West Ridge Trail Thompson Rim Trail Thompson Pack Trail Billy Goat Bluffs Big Bear Viewpoint Gliders’ Point 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

At the Creston Community Forest, we foster hands-on learning within our community. Learn more, about our exciting educational opportunities! BACK Forest Education Join us for exciting educational opportunities! We offer engaging field trips for school groups, including primary and high school students. Don't miss our annual trips: World Environment Day and National Forest Week. Field Trips On World Environment Day (June 5th), we explore climate change and ways to reduce our impact on the planet. Activities like nature scavenger hunts, tree planting, and weaving skills make each trip unique. During National Forest Week in September, Grade 5 students embark on a forest ecology adventure. They learn about biodiversity, wildfire protection, and compassing, and take part in wood cookie painting and tree identification. It's a fun-filled day with approximately 80–150 students attending. Summer Students We hire two summer students each year for hands-on fieldwork. They gain valuable experience in forest technician work, including silviculture surveys, block layout, timber cruising, and trail building. For more information on forest education, email Daniel Gratton at dgratton@crestoncf.com or call 250.402.0070 . Join us in exploring and learning about your local community forest! 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

The Creston Community Forest (CCF) is proposing an updated Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP) for Community Forest Agreement (CFA) K3D. The CCF's primary land management objectives are to implement ecosystem-based forestry, protected water, address climate change and improve the Creston Valley's resilience in the event of wildfire. The CCF welcomes meeting in person to discuss our FSP or any other questions you may have. Projects 2024 - 2029 Forest Stewardship Plan The Creston Community Forest (CCF) is proposing an updated Forest Stewardship Plan (FSP) for Community Forest Agreement (CFA) K3D. CFA K3D contains five community watersheds which includes Arrow Creek, Sullivan Creek, Russell Creek, Floyd Creek, and Camp Run Creek. Nine domestic watersheds are also in the CFA K3D Licence area. Since its inception in November 1997, the CCF has operated as a not-for-profit organization governed by a volunteer board of directors five of which are shareholders directors represented by the Town of Creston, Regional District of Central Kootenay, Wildsight, Trails for Creston Valley Society and the Erickson Community Association. The CCF's primary land management objectives are to implement ecosystem-based forestry, protect water, address climate change and improve the Creston Valley's resilience in the event of wildfire. The FSP and maps can be viewed by clicking the links below: 2024 - 2029 Forest Stewardship Plan CVFC - ARROW FDU MAP #1 CVFC - GOAT-SKIMMERHORN FDU MAP #2 CVFC - THOMPSON-CARROLL-FOUND FDU MAP #3 For comments to be reflected in the final submission of this FSP, please send written submissions by August 28, 2024 to the email or mail address listed below:

The Creston Community Forest envisions healthy forests with social, ecological, and economic benefits. We prioritize non-timber resources and local community input in our harvesting plans to make this vision a reality. Our community forest allows the Creston Valley to guide land-use decisions, respecting local interest and ecological integrity. 2024 2024 Harvesting Details Goat Mountain Details Harvesting Completed Wildfire Risk Reduction mechanical piling and hand treatment completed. Pile burning fall - winter 2024 Lower Birch (Carroll Creek) & Peterson Creek Details Harvesting Completed Wildfire Risk Reduction mechanical piling and hand treatment to commence in spring 2025 Mt. Thompson Details Harvesting Completed Wildfire Risk Reduction mechanical piling and hand treatment to commence in spring 2025 Arrow Creek Details Pile Burning fall - winter 2024 Resources / Links Guiding Principles Management Plan 2024 -2029 Forest Stewardship Plan Forest Stewardship Plan Policy Manual 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

Fuel mitigation is to address the growing risk of intense wildfires in our region. With hotter and drier summers, wildfires have become more frequent and severe. By removing excess fuel, such as woody debris and dead trees from specific areas, we create more fire-resilient forests that act as barriers to fire spread. FOREST OPERATIONS Fuel Mitigation Fuel mitigation is to address the growing risk of intense wildfires in our region. With hotter and drier summers, wildfires have become more frequent and severe. By removing excess fuel, such as woody debris and dead trees from specific areas, we create more fire-resilient forests that act as barriers to fire spread. The amount and type of fuel removal are tailored to site-specific conditions, resulting in a forest that experiences low-intensity surface fires. Implementing fuel mitigation, especially in the Wildland Urban Interface, is vital for communities across B.C. to enhance their fire protection measures. FOREST OPERATIONS Wildland Urban Interface The Wildland Urban Interface is where our community meets the wilderness, with dense forests and thick undergrowth. This zone covers a significant portion of Creston and its surrounding areas. While it offers great recreational opportunities, these areas pose a risk to businesses, homeowners, and private landowners in the event of a wildfire. These forests are more prone to high-intensity wildfires due to the abundance of fuel, such as deadfall and dense shrub layers. As this zone encompasses a large part of the Creston Valley, many people are directly exposed to the threat of intense wildfires. That's why wildfire risk reduction through fuel mitigation work has become increasingly important as communities recognize the risks associated with these transition areas. To read about some of our previous wildfire mitigation projects, visit our blog . For perspective of how much area is at risk to wildfire by being located within the Wildland Urban Interface, check out the video. 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