Kicking off 2026, Water Protector Katelyn Scott is diving into a busy year of advocacy to protect the Spokane River—from federal rulemaking and local water policy to salmon restoration and industrial pollution oversight. Here’s a look at the work so far to defend clean water and healthy river flows.

As the Washington State Legislature moves through the short session, we’re focused on key environmental priorities that affect our rivers, communities, and the health of our ecosystems. This session we are prioritizing 4 issues: reducing plastics pollution, Climate Commitment Act funding, sustainable waste solutions for Spokane, and protecting our waterways from toxic chemicals.

Here’s a look at what matters most this session, why it matters for the river, and how you can follow the legislation that aligns with these priorities.

We are inviting everyone to write a love letter to the river. Not just letters, poems, drawings, short stories, or artwork are all welcome. Kids, teens, adults, families, anyone can participate. Share a story, a memory, a moment, a reflection on why the Spokane River matters to you, and why you think it deserves protection.