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.

Asotin Conservation District Leads Recovery After Wildfires and Floods

Asotin County Conservation District

In July 2021, devastating lightning storms and high winds sparked several wildfires in southeast Washington, including the Lick Creek and Silcott fires— burning 50,000+ acres across Asotin County. Both public and private lands were impacted, resulting in damage to natural resources and agricultural infrastructure.

Fast forward to June 2022, isolated rain and hailstorms caused even more flood damage in the affected areas where vegetation had not yet regrown. Asotin Conservation District has been hard at work, assisting 19 landowners in recovery efforts.

These efforts included:

  • Removing 135,097 feet of destroyed fencing
  • Installing new rangeland, corral, and riparian fencing
  • Restoring water systems and protecting high-use areas
  • Controlling weeds on 502 acres
  • Replanting 300 acres of rangeland

Thank you, Asotin Conservation District, for your hard work!

More Community Stories:

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.

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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.

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Stevens County Conservation District

Vetter Farm: A Living Legacy of Partnership and Innovation

Established in the 1890s and donated to Washington State University in 2020, Vetter Farm is jointly managed by the Stevens County Conservation District and WSU Extension. This 158-acre property serves as a working demonstration farm, supporting soil health research, agroforestry trials, and educational field days that bring local producers together to share ideas and test new approaches.

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