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:

Scaling Up Production for Statewide Riparian Restoration

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.

Full Story
Grays Harbor Conservation District

Maintaining a Robust Plant Inventory for Restoration

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.

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Snohomish Conservation District

Advancing Nursery Growth and Community Partnerships

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.

Full Story