Anne Tenold reflects on trust—how it’s built, how it can be eroded, and what true stewardship looks like, whether in protecting a community’s water or managing capital. Her latest piece explores these ideas in the context of our partnership with Vickerman.

As of mid-March 2026, snow depths are only 48% of median across the Spokane River Basin, but the snow-water equivalent (SWE) is about 75% of median. That means while there’s less snow on the ground, the water content of what remains is closer to normal.

Cumulative precipitation this water year is slightly above average, which has kept river flows healthy so far, with many stations reporting near or above median flows. But because much of the winter precipitation fell as rain rather than snow, we may see lower flows later in the summer, which could stress fish, recreation, and water quality.

The water year is just over halfway complete, so the timing of remaining precipitation and snowmelt will be critical for Spokane River health. Learn more about what this season could mean for flows, temperatures, and the river ecosystem.

Read about all we accomplished in the 2025 River Cleanup Annual Report.

Each year the Spokane Riverkeeper hosts a variety of cleanup events to address the issue of trash along and in the Spokane River. Volunteers offer their time and energy to clean up trails, parks, natural areas, riparian zones and sometimes even in the river itself.