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.

Labor Day Firestorm Afermath

Pine Creek Conservation District

In 2020, the Labor Day Firestorm burned nearly 300,000 acres in the Pine Creek area-- devastating homes, forests, farmlands, and pastures. In response, Pine Creek CD partnered with land stewards in its community to help restore their land and livelihoods.

Their impact:

  • Planted 1,800 trees and shrubs.
  • Rebuilt 11 miles of fencing, restoring 540 acres of pasture.
  • Sowed seeds on 52 acres to improve soil health and reduce erosion.

These efforts are helping to regenerate wildlife habitat, improve water quality, and support local livestock operations. One landowner shared, "This program was a game changer for my operation." Together, they are rebuilding stronger.

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.

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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