Fall tree plantings at Waikiki Springs

In the fall of 2020, thanks to funding provided by the taxpayers of Washington state, Inland Northwest Land Conservancy purchased 95 acres of land along the Little Spokane River. Since then, Waikiki Springs Nature Preserve has been the focus of restoration efforts by Conservancy volunteers and staff. From tree thinning for wildfire prevention and forest health to noxious weed remediation, the Conservancy is working to restore this beautiful place to its original thriving state. 

In just 12 months, the area has seen over 28,000 visitors. Volunteers logging hundreds of hours have built three new loop trails, featuring beautiful views of the river valley, the famed eagle’s nest, and the meandering waterway that was once home to thousands of native salmon. Last fall, Spokane Tribal Fisheries released 51 adult Chinook salmon into the river, making it the first time in 111 years that salmon swam in their native waters. Those salmon produced five redds during their spawning period and Fisheries biologists are continuing to monitor the waterway to learn how the fish are interacting with their historic home. 

This fall, volunteers are invited to participate in native plant restoration in the area. Join the Conservancy to plant native trees and shrubs that will support biodiversity, provide shade cover ​and forage for wildlife, and build a sustainable and healthy preserve where families and community members can come and learn about Inland Northwest nature for years to come. 

The events are from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. on Saturday, October 8, and Saturday, October 15. Please register for either or both of these dates at the events page on our website.