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  • Projects | Creston Community Forest, BC

    Projects 2024 Projects Goat Mountain Details Mt. Thompson Details General Project Phases ​ Phase 1: Planning Collating and analyzing relevant data to help develop plans that balance values and are aligned with our guiding principles. ​ Phase 2: Collaboration Open collaborative discussions with the Creston Valley community, including area residents, First Nations and the Creston Valley FireSmart Resiliency Committee . Key points will be highlighted in our newsletter, on social media, and at open houses. ​ Phase 3: Prioritization Identification of proposed and prioritized projects in the community forest will be developed over time. ​ Phase 4: Implementation Completing the plans from field development through to reforestation and long term monitoring. ​ ​ Resources / Links Guiding Principles Management 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

  • Projects | Creston Community Forest, BC

    Projects Our 2024 Project Objectives ​ Ensuring a Resilient Forest and Community ​ 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. Wildfire Risk Reduction to Forests and Community The Goat Mountain area where community intermingles with the natural environment is called the wildland urban interface. Mountainous geography and water restrict most areas and this challenges emergency response planning. As our climate changes, our communities are increasingly aware of this risk, and interested in seeing it addressed. As a community-led organization with a forest stewardship mandate, this is a high priority for the Creston Community Forest. ​ To follow community forest guidelines, Angela French, (RFT, Creston Community Forest Planning and Development Supervisor) shared the proposed Cutting Permit for this year. You will find the goals for the proposed areas, with a strong emphasis on reducing fuel loads. You will also find maps highlighting the areas for your further understanding of the Wildfire Risk Reduction Project on Goat Mountain. How to reduce the risk of wildfire spreading through the Community Forest Email Us Your Questions Maps for Proposed Areas The four phases of this project over the year includes: ​ Phase 1: Planning This will involve analyzing relevant data, such as old growth and ecologically important areas to be protected, to build a Fuel Management Plan across the Community Forest’s operating area. This information will be used to inform decisions to show where wildfire threat, spread, and vulnerability risks are greatest. ​ Phase 2: Collaboration Discussing the findings with the Creston Valley Community, including area residents, First Nations and the Creston Valley FireSmart Resiliency Committee. The information generated by this process will be shared for discussion with community on priority areas and next steps. We will highlight key points in our newsletter, on social media, host an informational open house to share findings, and reach out to community groups in areas with proposed mitigation projects to gain community input into how we should proceed with the findings. ​ Phase 3: Prioritization Identification of proposed and prioritized Wildfire Risk Reduction projects in the Community Forest. A series of proposed risk reduction projects will be developed over time. Each proposed project area will be identified including such information as threat and risk levels, and forest characteristics. ​ Phase 4: Implementation Completing the field development, cutting permit development and treatments to implement the Fuel Management Plan over time. ​ ​ Resources / Links Guiding Principles Management Plan Forest Stewardship Plan 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. 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

  • Home | Creston Community Forest, BC

    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 'Community' in Our Community Forest: Join us at our Open House Creston Community Forest Trail Etiquette More News & Stories Click HERE How to Get Involved Forest Stewardship Plan

  • Billy Goat Bluffs | Creston Community Forest, BC

    BILLY GOAT BLUFFS The Billy Goat Bluffs trail was developed in June 2018 by the generous and hard-working volunteers through the Creston Community Forest as well as the Trails for Creston Valley Society. This 2.7 km (one-way) trail takes you up to a rocky outcrop overlooking the Creston Valley. This trail provides hikers with easy-access hiking right outside of town. On the way up the trail passes through an old apple orchard, a fuel mitigation area completed by the Town of Creston in 2012, several rocky viewpoints and several large, old Ponderosa pine trees, some with bear claw marks. At the top of the bluffs, hikers can enjoy the scenery by sitting at the beautiful picnic table crafted by woodshop students from Prince Charles Secondary School. A short trail to the north from the picnic tables leads to a bench with a great view of Duck Lake and the lower end of Kootenay Lake. ​ Access: From the Creston Valley Visitor Center, head north on Highway 3 towards Wynndel. After 2.6 km, turn right onto Helen Street (at the Tim Hortons). Continue on Helen Street for roughly 350 meters – the trail head will be located on the left, next to an information board about the trail. A small parking area may be found on the right hand side of the road. Trailhead Access from town: 5-10 minutes Hiking time (return): ~3 hours Elevation gain: 369 meters Distance: 5.4 km (return) 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

  • Get Involved | Creston Community Forest, BC

    Contact Us Box 551 Creston, BC, V0B 1G0, Canada 250.402.0070 Daniel Gratton: dgratton@crestoncf.com 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

  • Creston Valley Fire Resiliency Committee | Creston Community Forest, BC

    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. ​ Date: Saturday, May 25th, 2024 Time: 9am - 1pm Location: “Market Park ” at the NEW Creston Valley Farmers' Market. What to expect: Interactive booths with each partner, bring the kids to take a photo with the fire truck, and more importantly, learn what’s going on in your community about how you can create a plan to become FireSmart. 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. 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

  • West Ridge Trail | Creston Community Forest, BC

    WEST RIDGE TRAIL This new trail to access the top of Mt Thompson was built in the summer of 2019 by the Creston Community Forest. Total cost of the trail was funded equally by the Creston Community Forest and a grant from the Columbia Basin Trust. The trail starts at the next switchback just after the km 4 post on the Sullivan Creek Trail and ends at the Mt Thompson campsite just off the peak of Mt Thompson. Features of this trail include stands of large Douglas fir and Larch, rocky outcrops, stands of lodgepole pine, and as you approach the top of Mt Thompson, subalpine stands of Alpine Fir and White Bark Pine. The top of Mt Thompson burnt in the early 1900’s and some of the old fir and pine snags are still standing. The trail also passes through a small alpine meadow just above a rocky outcrop that was used as a hang-gliding launching point in the 1980’s. The remains of two old ramps are still there and this site now includes two picnic tables, a bench and a fire ring. ​ This part of Mt Thompson is mountain goat habitat. Seven or eight goats were transplanted to this area in 1978. Wildlife biologists now believe there are 15 to 20 goats in the herd. Look for mountain goats along the trail or on the rocky cliffs that are visible from various viewpoints. Please report any sightings to the Creston Community Forest at 250.402.0070 . ​ With the completion of the West Ridge Trail, it is now possible to hike from the valley floor to the top of Mt Thompson. If you start from the Vance Road trail head, the total one way distance is 10 km with an elevation gain of 1430 m to the Mt Thompson campsite. From the Sullivan Creek trail head, the one way distance is slightly less at 8.5 km with elevation gain of 1234 m. ​ Access Point 1: Access to the lower trail head of the West Ridge Trail is via the Sullivan Creek Trail. From the Creston Valley Visitor Centre, head east out of Creston on Hwy 3 for 5.9 km; turn right onto Canyon-Lister Road; go 1.1 km – turn left onto Whimster Road; travel 750 m – turn left onto Mt Thompson forestry road (gravel, steep grades); travel 1.7 km to parking area for Sullivan Creek Trail. Hike up the Sullivan Creek Trail to just beyond the 4 km post to the start of the West Ridge Trail. ​ Access Point 2: The upper trail head of the West Ridge Trail is at the Mt Thompson campsite and the new trail head for the Rim Trail. This can be accessed by driving to the top of the Mt Thompson Forest Service Road (total distance of 10.5 km). Note: this is a forest service road with sharp curves and steep grades; high clearance vehicles with 4 wheel drive are highly recommended. Trail head access from town: 20–30 minutes to lower trail head plus the time to hike 4 km on the Sullivan Creek Trail. Hiking Time (return): 4 to 7 hours depending upon starting point Distance (Return): 9 km for West Ride Trail only; approximately 17 km from the Sullivan Creek trail head on the Mt Thompson FSR and 20 km from the Vance Road trail head. Elevation gain: 780 m for the West Ridge Trail only; 1430 m from the start of the Pack Trail at Vance Road; 1234 m from the Sullivan Creek trail head Difficulty Rating: Difficult due to distance, access and elevation gain 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

  • Get Involved | Creston Community Forest, BC

    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.

  • Silviculture | Creston Community Forest, BC

    FOREST OPERATIONS Silviculture We focus on creating resilient forests that can thrive in changing conditions driven by climate change. Our silviculture practices prioritize ecosystem-based management, ensuring that future stands are well-suited to their growing conditions and highly resilient. To enhance the forest's resilience, we incorporate a diverse range of tree species that are naturally adapted to each site's specific conditions. This includes both commercially viable and non-commercially viable species, resulting in a higher species diversity and a forest that goes beyond pure production goals. We also consider the site's natural disturbance regime when developing silvicultural prescriptions. By mimicking natural disturbances like an occasional windfall, we apply selective harvesting systems that the forest is best adapted to. This approach promotes the growth of diverse tree species and age classes, ensuring the long-term health of our timber resources for future generations. Through our silviculture practices, we not only care for the timber resources in our operational area but also create forests that are resilient and well-prepared for the challenges of tomorrow. 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

  • Thompson Pack Trail | Creston Community Forest, BC

    THOMPSON PACK TRAIL The Thompson Pack Trail is a 4.5 km (one-way) trail that parallels and meanders along Sullivan Creek. This trail takes you through beautiful cedar-hemlock forests that boast an abundant and diverse population of fungi. This mainly shaded trail provides users relief from the hot sun, making it a wonderful summer destination. This trail was originally built in the 1930’s to transport supply up to the Thompson Forestry Lookout Tower; the tower was used seasonally as a fire lookout. The close proximity to town of this single track trail provides a great opportunity for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. ​ The Pack Trail was upgraded in 2019 including a new 16 m foot bridge across Sullivan Creek. Other work included repairs to a washout at km 1, a new split log foot bridge over a washout at about km 3.3 and the construction of a short (60 m) spur trail to the base of the Sullivan Creek Cascades at km 3.1. ​ Access Point 1: From the Creston Valley Visitor Centre, take Highway 3 toward Cranbrook for approximately 5.8 km and turn right on to Canyon-Lister Road. Continue approximately 1.5 km to 51st Street and turn left. 51st Street turns onto Vance Road. Continue to the end of Vance Road and park. Make sure to park so that others can. This location is the official trailhead and there is also a kiosk with a visitor log. Please Note: The start of the Pack Trail off of Vance Road is bordered on both sides of the trail by private land. Please respect the rights of private land owners by staying on the trail. ​ Access Point 2: From the Creston Valley Visitor Center, take Highway 3 toward Cranbrook for approximately 5.8 km and turn right on to Canyon-Lister Road. Continue 1.1 km and turn left onto Whimster Road, following the road to its end. The Mount Thompson FSR begins at that point. The road is rough and a four wheel drive is recommended. Continue up this service road until arriving at the Sullivan Creek Trailhead kiosk and park. Make sure to park so others can. From this location there are loops that can be hiked that involve the Pack Trail, the Sullivan Creek Trail, the West Ridge Trail and overlooks like Gliders Point. Trailhead access from town: 20-30 minutes Hiking Time (Return): 3-4 hours Distance (Return): ~9 km from the Vance Road trailhead; ~6 km from the Sullivan Creek trailhead Elevation Gain: ~710 m (from Vance Road trailhead) Neighbouring Trails: Sullivan Creek Trail (10.7 km one way)—This trail continues to the top of Mt. Thompson from the Sullivan Creek trailhead kiosk. Moderate hike. ​ West Ridge Trail (4.5 km one way)—This trail also continues up to the top of Mt. Thompson from several marked junctions on the Sullivan Creek trail and leads to the Thompson Rim Trail. Moderate to hard hike with some scrambling. 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

  • Forest Recreation | Creston Community Forest, BC

    BACK Forest Recreation 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. As trail stewards, we ensure our trails are well-maintained, clearly marked with signage, and accessible during the snow-free months. These trails are open to the public for non-motorized use, such as hiking, cycling, and horseback riding. 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

  • About Us | Creston Community Forest, BC

    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 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, a Planning and Development Supervisor, and an Office Administrator. All other operational work, including 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 Planning and Development Supervisor Angela French, RFT Office Administrator & Safety Coordinator Kris VanderWeyde 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 VACANT 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

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