Priority Areas
We have prioritized five key areas for conservation, each with unique ecosystems and environmental challenges. These areas are crucial for preserving biodiversity and addressing climate change, water conservation, and habitat restoration.
Priority areas
A Science-Based Approach to Conservation
Using the best available GIS data about things like migration corridors, climate resilience, forest resources, and wildlife habitat–along with the “ground truthing” of ecological experts–the Inland Northwest Land Conservancy team has developed a way to address the 9-million-acre “Inland Northwest” region with a strategic and proactive approach to permanent conservation. By identifying areas with the highest ecological values that are the most threatened, whether from human-based causes or natural, our conservation team is equipped to focus their efforts within these specific regions, maximizing the organization’s resources to conserve the most land and water possible.
Learn more about Priority Area focus below.
Priority Areas
One of Washington’s most impaired waterways.
Rich in biodiversity, Rathdrum Prairie Spokane Valley Aquifer
Resilient forests and important wildlife habitats
Facing environmental degradation
One of Washington’s most impaired waterways.
For trout and tribes
Hangman Creek
Flowing from the Rocky Mountain foothills to the Spokane River, Hangman Creek is one of Washington’s most impaired waterways, facing threats from urbanization and agriculture. INLC collaborates with diverse stakeholders to improve water quality and fish and riparian habitats, with a focus on preserving stream flows. This area has the potential to demonstrate the power of public and private partnerships in revitalizing damaged waterways.
Protecting land on Hangman Creek will:
- Support regional efforts to reduce sediment and harmful chemicals, enhancing the health of this imperiled watershed.
- Expand protected land to facilitate habitat restoration and ensure sustainable management of this crucial waterway.
- Strengthen private and public partnerships to revitalize Hangman Creek and safeguard its ecological and cultural value.
For wolves, woods, and water
Mt. Spokane
Located at the southern tip of the Selkirk Mountains, Mt. Spokane is rich in biodiversity, supporting species such as deer, elk, and black bears. It is also a key source of surface water for the Rathdrum Prairie Spokane Valley Aquifer, which provides drinking water to the region. INLC works to conserve water resources, protect working forests, and preserve scenic views and recreational opportunities in this popular outdoor destination.
Protecting land on Mt. Spokane will:
- Protect watersheds that recharge the Rathdrum Prairie Spokane Valley Aquifer, securing the region’s drinking water supply.
- Ensure public access to nature, enhancing recreation opportunities and promoting environmental stewardship.
- Safeguard scenic landscapes and maintain healthy habitats that benefit both wildlife and the community.
For forests, moose, and elk
Mica Peak
Stretching across the Idaho-Washington border, Mica Peak is home to resilient forests and important wildlife habitats, including elk, moose, and gray wolves. INLC’s efforts focus on expanding protected areas, especially on the Idaho side, to safeguard watersheds that feed into the Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer. The area also has cultural significance for members of the Coeur d’Alene Tribe, who have traditionally used it for hunting and gathering.
Protecting land at Mica Peak will:
- Protect vital forested habitats that provide crucial water recharge for Lake Coeur d’Alene and the Spokane Valley Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer.
- Expand existing conservation areas and increase conservation efforts in Idaho, enhancing habitat connectivity and ecosystem resilience.
- Preserve scenic viewsheds for over half a million people and maintain access to nature and outdoor recreation opportunities.
For clean water and migrating birds
Coeur d'Alene River
The Coeur d’Alene River, historically vital to the Coeur d’Alene Tribe, faces
environmental degradation due to past mining activities that left heavy metals in the ecosystem. INLC works to conserve land around tributaries and wetlands, improving water quality and restoring riparian habitats while supporting ongoing clean-up efforts to revitalize this vital waterway.
Protecting land in the Coeur d’Alene River corridor will:
- Restore and protect tributaries and wetlands, enhancing riparian habitats and supporting the health of this ecologically vital river corridor.
- Address legacy pollution from mining activities by conserving land and collaborating with partners to improve ecosystem function and water quality.
- Support ongoing conservation efforts by non-profits, tribes, and agencies to revitalize this beautiful and crucial river system for over a million people.
- Ensure the water going into Lake Coeur d’Alene and the Spokane River is clean and clear.
For sagebrush and high desert
Channeled Scablands
Carved by Ice Age floods, this area is known for its unique biodiversity, including species like the Pygmy Rabbit and Sage Thrasher. The Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge, located within this region, provides vital habitat, and INLC aims to
expand conservation efforts by protecting surrounding lands. The region also holds cultural importance for local tribes, who traditionally harvested plants like camas and bitterroot.
Protecting land in the Channeled Scablands will:
- Improve climate resilience and safeguard critical ecosystems around Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge.
- Expand public access to vibrant natural spaces, fostering educational and recreational opportunities near Spokane.
- Support conservation efforts that mitigate habitat fragmentation and promote long-term ecological health.
Leaving a Legacy
Did You Know?
Your legacy can become part of the long-term protection of lands and waters. Including a gift to Inland Northwest Land Conservancy in your estate plans can be simple and flexible.
Priority Areas
Giving a Focus to Create Impact
We’ve already conserved more than 28,000 acres and 129 properties across the Inland Northwest. Now, our goal is to protect 15,000 more acres across eastern Washington and north Idaho.
Using a science-based approach, we’ve pinpointed the places that matter most-landscapes rich in ecological value and facing the biggest threats: Coeur d’Alene River, Mica Peak, Mt. Spokane, Hangman Creek, and the Channeled Scablands.