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.

Recently our community science program has had some big wins.  And although it’s harder to quantify, we’ve reached hundreds of volunteers and partners with our study.  In addition to the valuable data they provide, these trained volunteers come out of our study knowing more about our river, and the pollution that plagues it than they did before the study.  Community science programs are the perfect educational tool to learn about our environment and apply STEM principles to real world problems.  Many participants value the deeper understanding of how science can be used to protect and restore a river, and how they are part of this solution!