FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
OLYMPIA, WA — The Washington State Conservation Commission (SCC) is proud to announce a statewide educational campaign to raise awareness about the importance of riparian buffers—natural areas alongside waterways that play a critical role in maintaining healthy ecosystems. Originally included in Governor Jay Inslee’s budget and later approved with a $2 million allocation by the Washington State Legislature, this campaign represents a major step in protecting Washington’s natural resources for future generations.
Riparian buffers, which include vegetation near rivers and streams, are vital to water quality, wildlife habitat, and ecosystem resilience. These areas are especially critical to salmon in Washington, providing essential benefits for spawning, rearing, and recovery. By shading streams, riparian buffers regulate water temperatures, which is vital for salmon survival. They also filter pollutants, stabilize streambanks to prevent erosion, and provide organic material that supports aquatic food webs. Protecting and restoring riparian zones directly contributes to healthier salmon populations and the ecosystems they sustain.
“There are so many ways – big and small – we can each help protect our iconic salmon,” said Governor Jay Inslee. “I appreciate the SCC and its many partners for spreading the word. Every action we take adds up.”
The campaign aims to inspire individuals and communities to take actions such as planting native vegetation along streams and rivers, reducing erosion by stabilizing soil with ground cover, and participating in community efforts like stream cleanups or buffer restoration projects to protect these essential areas.
“We’re thrilled to launch this campaign and help communities understand the vital role riparian buffers play in supporting healthy ecosystems and sustainable land use,” said James Thompson, SCC’s executive director. “Everyone in Washington has a role to play in protecting these critical areas, and we’re committed to providing the tools and knowledge they need to make a difference.”
SCC Director of Policy and Intergovernmental Affairs Kate Delavan added, “This funding from the legislature allows us to educate landowners and residents about how their actions can contribute to cleaner water, healthier salmon populations, and more resilient communities. This campaign is about collaboration and empowering Washingtonians to protect our shared resources.”
The campaign aims to build lasting support for riparian buffers by fostering a network of informed advocates. To ensure the campaign reaches diverse audiences across Washington, the campaign will include creative assets such as videos and radio advertising and a toolkit of educational materials for partners to engage urban, suburban, rural, agricultural, and forested communities. Focus groups and demographic research have refined regional messaging to ensure outreach resonates with community needs.
The full campaign will launch March 2025. For more information about the campaign and ways to get involved, please visit www.conserve.wa.gov.
About the Washington State Conservation Commission:
The Washington State Conservation Commission (SCC) works to conserve natural resources on all lands in Washington state through voluntary, incentive-based programs. As the coordinating state agency for all 45 conservation districts in Washington, SCC empowers individuals and communities to practice conservation, ensuring healthy natural resources and agriculture for all.
