Who We Are
OUR MANDATE
The Kootenay Farms Food Hub Innovation Centre was created by the Fields Forward Society, whose mandate is to support food and agricultural initiatives in the Creston Valley, including provision of education to farmers about new and emerging technologies and climate change adaptation tools. As part of the Fields Forward Society, the Food Hub meets Fields Forward's commitment to developing a vibrant local agri-food system.
The Food Hub Vision + Mission
The vision for the Food Hub is to foster a thriving regional agriculture and food sector that is a significant contributor to the local economy in the Kootenays.
The mission of the Food Hub is to be a catalyst to help agriculture and food producers and processors improve their sales and economic success.
Meet the Board
Fields Forward Society Board of Directors
Are you interested in becoming a board member? Contact us!
JEFF LEE
CHAIR
Jeff Lee is the co-owner of Swan Valley Honey Ltd. and Honey Bee Zen Apiaries Ltd., the largest retail producer of local honey in the Kootenay region. It is based in Creston. Jeff is also a vice-president of the B.C. Honey Producers Association and worked for 40 years as a political and investigative journalist, the last 30 with The Vancouver Sun.
BRIAN PEALOW
DIRECTOR
Brian owns Pealow’s Independent Grocery store in Creston. Before moving to Creston, he managed other Loblaws stores in Ontario and British Columbia including City Market in Vancouver, providing him with an understanding of the different consumer attitudes to local food.
He has a passion for local agriculture and entrepreneurs and buys local, in-season product for this store. He also assists farmers and food processors with gaining the tools needed to get into Loblaws stores in British Columbia. Brian advises us about consumer trends and what products are marketable in grocery stores. He has a Bachelor of Business Administration from Trent University. He majored in finance and economics.
MEGAN MCKENDRY
VICE-CHAIR
Megan McKendry is the Senior Director of Quality and Compliance for Decibel Cannabis, and co-owner of Big Bear Meats, a Creston based meat processor providing locally processed fresh, smoked and cured meat products.
She is a Molecular Biologist and Biochemist by trade with extensive experience in product quality and safety, including HACCP and CFIA regulations.
She is passionate about food security and ensuring all locals have access to fresh, locally produced food and that entrepreneurs have access to the resources required to build robust local food businesses.
MIRIAM FIRTH
DIRECTOR
Miriam has over thirty years of food safety experience with HACCP and CFIA, and is well versed in BRC and FSSC22000 GFSI approved programs. She provides guidance on how our facilities and staff can maintain a food safety first culture.
Meet the Staff
TANYA WALL
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR & OPERATIONS MANAGER
Calling the Creston Valley home for over 40 years, Tanya’s passion for local agriculture is demonstrated every day. With 14 years of experience in local governance, she has built strong relationships with all levels of government. Tanya is devoted to business development, economic sustainability and is continually advocating for growth and opportunities for our Valley.
Tanya brings to our organization 18 years of experience in beverage manufacturing and a vast understanding of HACCP and Food Safety practices. As a local entrepreneur in the restaurant and food-truck business, which focused on farm-to-table menu creations, her community-minded commitment was always reflected in her businesses. She is committed to helping others navigate through the regulatory requirements of developing a food-based business and is a wealth of knowledge.
The drive for continuous improvement with fiscal responsibility, her passion for sustainable farming practices, food sovereignty and food security, along with her positive leadership style is strengthening us every day. When not working at the Food Hub, the Farmers’ Market, or processing Harvest Share produce, you can find her at home gardening on her small acreage, in the kitchen creating delicious food, or travelling in the search of new culinary experiences.
FOOD HUB OPERATIONS MANAGER
Hiring in Spring of 2026. Watch for job posting coming soon.
Fields Forward Society supports the development of agri-food and food processing in the Creston Valley and Columbia Basin. We work alongside local producers, farmers’ market vendors, and community partners to strengthen regional food systems and advance community food security initiatives.
We are seeking an energetic, organized, and people-focused Food Hub Operations Manager to oversee daily Food Hub operations while supporting food entrepreneurs and community food programming.
This is a hands-on, community-centered leadership position that blends operations, food production, and relationship-building.
HYDROPONIC FARM MANAGER
Hiring is Summer of 2026. Watch for job posting coming soon.
Fields Forward Society is launching an exciting new chapter in local food production and we’re looking for the right person to grow it with us.
This summer, we will be installing a state-of-the-art Hydroponic Vertical Growing Modular Farm capable of producing approximately 10,000 pounds of fresh produce annually. This innovative Growcer system delivers reliable, consistent yields year-round and will play a key role in strengthening local food security in our community.
This is a brand-new project, and we are seeking a motivated, positive, and business-minded individual to take on the role of Hydroponic Vertical Farm Manager.
OUR COMMUNITY BUSINESS TENANTS
BEAR PAW RIDGE
Nestled in the wild Kootenays, Bear Paw Ridge Coffee Co. is a small‑batch, wood‑fire roastery crafting coffee with bold flavour, smooth character, and a whole lot of heart.
Every roast carries the warmth of a campfire and the stories of the ridge we call home.
From our signature Wood‑fire Roasted Beans to the refreshing Grizzly Chill Cold Brew in take‑home pouches, and the quick‑and‑ready Grizzly Run Quick Brew, each product offers more than a caffeine boost. They’re made to spark connection, bring comfort, and deliver a true taste of nature.
If you’re craving something deeper than just a cup of coffee, you’ll find it here — connection in every sip.
COLUMBIA BASIN TRUST
Columbia Basin Trust (CBT) was created in 1995 to support efforts by the people of the Basin to create a legacy of social, economic, and environmental well-being in the Canadian portion of the Columbia River Basin—the region most affected by the Columbia River Treaty. CBT has provided tremendous support to Fields Forward since 2018, providing our initiative with funding and expert advice since the organization was launched.
REGIONAL DISTRICT OF CENTRAL KOOTENAY
The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) is a local government serving an estimated population of 60,000 residents. The region comprises 11 electoral areas and nine member municipalities: Castlegar, Creston, Kaslo, Nakusp, Nelson, New Denver, Salmo, Silverton, and Slocan. RDCK has been a foundational supporter and funder of Fields Forward for many years.
BC MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND FOOD
BC Ministry of Agriculture and Food is responsible for the production, marketing, processing, and merchandising of agriculture and aquaculture products, food security, and supporting enhancement of wild fish populations in the province. The Ministry is a major funder of the Kootenay Farms Regional Food Hub and Innovation Centre.