Creston Community Forest

Fire for Healthy Soils Project Helping Our Community.

A recent press release from the BC Ministry of Jobs and Economic Growth defines and celebrates our collaborative 2025 Wildsight project with continued funding for our innovative work with Fire for Healthy Soils.

Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Jobs and Economic Growth (Ravi Kahlon) , “By turning wood waste into valuable new products, this project is creating jobs, supporting local businesses and helping build a stronger future for the community. Through our Look West strategy, we are investing in the people, ideas and industries that keep rural British Columbia thriving.”

Strengthening forestry and food security in Kootenays

The provincial investment will support Wildsight, the Creston Community Forest and the Regional District of Central Kootenay to collaboratively pilot a biochar business project using low-cost kiln technology.

Instead of pile-burning waste wood, the project will transform hazardous wildfire fuels and wood waste into biochar. It is primarily used as a soil supplement to improve agricultural yield, enhance water retention, improve soil quality by storing carbon and other essential soil nutrients, and keep carbon out of the atmosphere. The material will be tested in forestry, agriculture, composting, gardening and landscaping applications.

While research shows strong interest in biochar, businesses need local proof before investing.

The project will demonstrate its value in the Kootenays, building demand for biochar and kiln rentals, and supporting local businesses and jobs.

“Projects like Fire for Healthy Soils are helping our communities find innovative ways to reduce emissions, make better use of wood waste and support our local economy,” said Brittny Anderson, MLA for Kootenay Central. “This work is strengthening our forestry and agricultural sectors and supporting job growth and long-term rural resilience.”
Photo: Creston Community Forest Manager, Daniel Gratton Creston RPF, with Brittny Anderson MLA for Kootenay Central

To read the full press release,
https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2026JEG0039-000657

A Trail Update: The Thompson Rotary Trail has reopened, we will be working on the West Ridge Trail this week, and happy to share all Creston Community Forest trails are currently open for public use.

This season has brought an exceptional number of windstorms, leaving more fallen trees across our trail network than we normally experience. While we've completed the work needed to safely reopen the Thompson Rotary Trail, our crews will continue clearing additional blowdown along the West Ridge Trail and other sections of the trail system over the coming days.

If you're out enjoying the trails, please remember:
* Be mindful of maintenance crews at work.

* Watch for fallen branches or trees that may still be present, as some fallen trees and debris may still be encountered.

* Thank you for sharing the trails while this cleanup continues.

We appreciate your patience and support as we continue maintaining safe, accessible trails for our community and visitors to enjoy.

West Ridge Trail: https://www.crestoncommunityforest.com/west-ridge-trail

All our Creston Community Forest trails: https://www.crestoncommunityforest.com/get-involved

Public Service Announcement - Trail Closure. Due to the severe windstorm that passed through the Creston Valley last week, the Thompson Rotary Trail is temporarily closed while crews assess and remove numerous downed trees.

We know this trail is a favourite destination for many residents and visitors, and we appreciate your patience as we work to make it safe again. This closure is strictly for public safety and is not intended to limit access to the outdoors.

In the meantime, we encourage trail users to explore other Community Forest trails and the many excellent hiking opportunities available throughout the Creston Valley.

We'll provide updates on trail conditions throughout June on our website and social media channels.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we complete the trail cleanup work.

For details on alternative trails, please visit: https://www.crestoncommunityforest.com/get-involved