Ever heard of "nature deficit disorder?" This phrase has popped up often in the conservation world lately. It's a fancy term for the negative impacts kids experience when they don't get to play and explore in nature.
Conservation districts across WA are working to create opportunities for kids to adventure and learn outside. Among them is Foster Creek Conservation District, which runs a free, overnight outdoor camp for middle schoolers every summer. Over three days, students go on nature hikes, train with wildland firefighters, explore shrubsteppe habitat, and more. Learn more about the program, here.
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.
