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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 our 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 our Newsletter Latest News PSA: Temporary Trail Closure - West Ridge Trail Thompson Rotary Trail Reopened - CCF Team's Trail Work Chainsaw Safety & Training with Macaulay Forestry 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

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 Manager 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 OPEN 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! Hiking Trails 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.

The West RidgeTrail in the Creston Community Forest, BC TEMPORARY TRAIL CLOSURE for WEST RIDGE TRAIL As of July 9th, 2026 this trail is TEMPORARILY CLOSED. Public Service Announcement: Due to an unprecedented amount of blowdown along the West Ridge Trail on Mt. Thompson, the trail is temporarily closed while our crews assess and remove a significant number of fallen trees. Recent trail inspections revealed extensive wind damage, creating hazardous conditions for hikers. While we know this trail is a popular destination for many residents and visitors, public safety is our highest priority. This temporary closure is strictly for safety and is not intended to limit access to the outdoors. We encourage trail users to enjoy our other Community Forest trails and the many wonderful hiking opportunities available throughout the Creston Valley while cleanup work is underway. We'll continue to provide updates on trail conditions through our website and social media channels as work progresses. Thank you for your patience, understanding, and cooperation as we restore the trail to a safe condition. For details on alternative trails, please visit: https://www.crestoncommunityforest.com/get-involved The West Ridge Trail was built 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

The Lady Slipper Trail in the Creston Community Forest, BC LADY SLIPPER TRAIL The trailhead leaves the Goat Mountain Forest Service Road uphill through mixed forest with tall understory. Ascending through mature stands and past old veteran trees (now serving as wildlife condos), the understory opens to reveal coralroots, fungi and wildflowers. This area is home to the Ladyslipper, the trail’s namesake, in the mid-to-late spring. Here, the ground begins to level, hinting flirtatiously of Selkirk views on one side and revealing erratic boulders deposited by glaciers on the other. Passing through a floral meadow you climb to some of the greatest westward views available a short distance from downtown Creston. Cresting the summit will take you down a short trail to an Eastern viewpoint and excellent picnic location. Access: From the Creston Valley Visitor Center, head north along Highway 3. Reset your trip odometer at the Highway 3/3A junction (beisde the Tim Hortons). Continue heading north on highway 3A for 4km. Turn right onto Lakeview-Arrow Creek Road. At 5.3 km, keep right at the intersection. At 6.2 km, turn right onto Foster Road. The pavement ends at the base of Goat Mountain Forestry road (6.9 km). Reset your trip odometer here. Keep right at the first three junctions you meet along the forestry road. In 6 km, you will arrive at the trailhead with a pullout for parking on the right. Trailhead Access from town: 30-40 minutes Hiking Time (Return): 1 ½–2 ½ hours Elevation Gain: 400 meters Distance (Return): 4.8 km Download Map Turn your phone into a GPS tracker and follow your trail with the AllTrails App. Find photos, directions, record your pace, distance, elevation, comments from other hikers and share your adventures with friends and family. Link here: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/canada/british-columbia/arrow-mountain-via-ladyslipper-trail 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 Education: At the Creston Community Forest, we foster hands-on learning within our community. Learn more, about our exciting educational opportunities! Forest Recreation: We take pride in managing and maintaining a network of scenic trails in the picturesque Creston area. Explore the great outdoors! Forest Operations: We are deeply rooted in the values of our community. See us in action and learn how we connect sustainable practices with the community’s values. What We Do 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

The Thompson Pack Trail in the 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

The Big Bear Viewpoint Trail in the Creston Community Forest, BC BIG BEAR VIEWPOINT Check out our newest rec site—the Big Bear Viewpoint, which is located on the Big Bear forestry road. Directions: Head north out of Creston, resetting your trip meter at the Highway 3/3A junction (beside Tim Hortons), continue heading north on Highway 3A for 4km. Turn right onto Lakeview-Arrow Creek Rd. Keep right at the intersection at 5.3km. At 7.4km turn left onto the Big Bear Forest Service Road. Reset your trip meter here. Keep right at the 0.5km junction. At the 5.5km junction turn right. You will arrive at the viewpoint at 5.9km. At the viewpoint you will find a picnic table and a short trail which leads down to a rocky viewpoint. The elevation of the viewpoint is 1380m (600m above the Lakeview-Arrow Creek Road). Views of Arrow Mountain, Thompson Mountain and the Arrow Creek Watershed, as well as the Creston Valley and south into Idaho. 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 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 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. Projects Projects - 2025 Click Images for Details Goat Mountain Details Wildfire Risk Reduction cutting and piling completed. Harvesting Completed Debris Pile Burning Notice: * Goat Mountain to commence mid-December * Mt. Thompson to commence mid-December * Russell Creek to commence mid-December Russell Creek Details Active Harvesting Starting Fall 2025- Winter 2026 Lower Birch Prescribed Burn Wildfire Risk Reduction – Fall 2025 or Spring 2026 Havesting Completed Spring - Summer 2025 Peterson Creek and Found Creek Active Harvesting Starting August – Fall O'Kell Creek Details Active Harvesting Starting August – Fall 2024 Harvesting 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 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

​Our harvesting methods are selected based on site-specific conditions to ensure responsible timber extraction. Factors such as slope, tree species, ecosystem classification, forest health, wildlife habitats, old growth areas, and community proximity influence all of our decision-making processes. FOREST OPERATIONS Harvesting Our harvesting methods are selected based on site-specific conditions to ensure responsible timber extraction. Factors such as slope, tree species, ecosystem classification, forest health, wildlife habitats, old growth areas, and community proximity influence all of our decision-making processes. By following ecosystem-based management principles, we aim to mirror natural disturbance patterns, minimizing our impact on both timber and non-timber resources. Each harvesting system is chosen with the landscape and a number of values in mind, prioritizing the long-term health of the community forest. We strive for sustainable practices that maintain the balance between timber production and environmental conservation. 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 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