Conservation Success Stories

The Conservation Commission and conservation districts integrate  science, technology, and effective strategies for engaging people into our  voluntary solutions. This helps us build community around conservation and  deliver multi-benefit results. You’ll find examples of these solutions—and  the results we’ve been able to celebrate with participating landowners and  partners—in these community success stories.

Labor Day Firestorm Afermath

Pine Creek Conservation District

In 2020, the Labor Day Firestorm burned nearly 300,000 acres in the Pine Creek area-- devastating homes, forests, farmlands, and pastures. In response, Pine Creek CD partnered with land stewards in its community to help restore their land and livelihoods.

Their impact:

  • Planted 1,800 trees and shrubs.
  • Rebuilt 11 miles of fencing, restoring 540 acres of pasture.
  • Sowed seeds on 52 acres to improve soil health and reduce erosion.

These efforts are helping to regenerate wildlife habitat, improve water quality, and support local livestock operations. One landowner shared, "This program was a game changer for my operation." Together, they are rebuilding stronger.

More Community Stories:

Palouse Conservation District

FLOURISH: Farmers Leading Our United Revolution in Soil Health

Palouse Conservation District’s FLOURISH program is a farmer-led effort advancing soil health and climate resilience across the Inland Northwest.

Full Story
Pine Creek Conservation District

Thriving Waters, Thriving Farms: Sowing a Legacy for Hangman Creek

Generations of farming along Hangman Creek have faced erosion and water quality challenges. Through a partnership between the Spokane and Pine Creek Conservation Districts and the Washington State Department of Ecology, local landowners are restoring natural stream channels, planting native vegetation, and stabilizing creek banks, all while keeping working lands productive. Together, they’re proving that voluntary conservation benefits both farms and fish.

Full Story
Spokane Conservation District

Thriving Waters, Thriving Farms: Sowing a Legacy for Hangman Creek

Generations of farming along Hangman Creek have faced erosion and water quality challenges. Through a partnership between the Spokane and Pine Creek Conservation Districts and the Washington State Department of Ecology, local landowners are restoring natural stream channels, planting native vegetation, and stabilizing creek banks, all while keeping working lands productive. Together, they’re proving that voluntary conservation benefits both farms and fish.

Full Story