Efforts in sustainable agriculture and waterway protection by Spokane Conservation District are gaining national recognition. In partnership with the Department of Ecology, Pacific Northwest Direct Seed Association, and local farmers, the district has promoted innovative conservation practices that safeguard waterways and support environmental health.
The Farmed Smart Certification & Direct Seed Loan Implementation Program recently received an Exceptional Project designation under the US Environmental Protection Agency’s PISCES award. This recognition underscores the program's role in advancing direct seed and no-tillage farming practices in Eastern Washington.
Program outcomes include 30,000 acres certified with regenerative practices, 107,000 acres adopting environmentally friendly tillage, and 7,000 tons of sediment prevented from entering waterways. By making direct seed technology more accessible, the program helps local farmers protect water quality while maintaining productivity.
Ty Meyer, Farmed Smart Program Manager, highlighted the importance of these partnerships, noting that the program is considered one of the best conservation adaptation models in the country. These efforts continue to provide valuable solutions for Eastern Washington’s agricultural community.
Read the full article: International World Times
Delaini Disher’s photo, “Well-Attended Field Demonstration” captures the use of livestock in sustainable farming, highlighting the importance of biomass collection from a grazed cover crop field.
Mckenzi Coleman's "Exclusion Fence" photo highlights the enduring value of exclusion fencing as a tool for protecting natural resources like salmon streams and safeguarding livestock.
The winning photo from the conservation district calendar contest highlights hands-on salmon education.
