Benton Conservation District has been inspiring young minds for 26 years (and counting!) through its annual Salmon Summit event.
Each spring, local elementary school students gather at Columbia Park in Kennewick to release salmon they've raised in their classrooms into the Columbia River. Alongside this unforgettable experience, students participate in engaging educational activities that deepen their connection to conservation and the natural world.
This year, Benton Conservation District’s dedication was nationally recognized when they received the Outstanding Stewards of America's Waters Award for Public Education from the National Hydropower Association.
This event’s success is a testament to the amazing partnership between the district, the local educational community, sponsors, and volunteers. Thank you, Benton Conservation District, for educating the next generation of conservationists!
With support from the Riparian Plant Propagation Program, large-scale native plant production is underway through a partnership with Puget Sound Plants, enabling the cultivation and statewide distribution of more than 30,000 riparian plants. This high-volume nursery system strengthens Washington’s restoration supply chain and ensures consistent access to locally grown native material.
Grays Harbor Conservation District maintains tens of thousands of native plants annually at a partner-operated holding site, using gravel beds and nursery infrastructure to support healthy plant growth and regional riparian restoration. Through project support and community distribution, the district helps meet evolving restoration needs across the region.
Snohomish Conservation District is expanding its riparian plant capacity while preparing for a new office and greenhouse facility. Through partnerships with Snohomish County, Edmonds College, and the Latino Educational Training Institute, the district maintains thousands of native plants and supports hands-on workforce development for local restoration efforts.
