Federal Agencies

Farm Service Agency (FSA): the FSA administers cost-sharing programs, such as the Continuous Conservation Reserve Program, to farmers implementing conservation. It also provides aerial photos for conservation work, assistance for land treatment and development, and natural disaster relief.

U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS): the USFWS is responsible for wild birds, mammals, and inland sport fisheries. They conduct research activities, environmental impact assessments, and manage wildlife refuges.

Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS): The NRCS has a long tradition of working with conservation districts. They provide technical assistance with soils, conservation practices and planning to districts and landowners. They also administer several cost-sharing programs such as the Environmental Quality Incentives Program.

State Agencies

Department of Ecology (DOE): the Department of Ecology protects and enhances our state’s natural resources by addressing such problems as air pollution, water pollution, solid & hazardous waste, water resources and shoreline management. DOE is both an administrative and regulatory agency with authority to enforce the state’s environmental laws. They monitor all major waterways, several grant programs and issue permits for all waste dischargers.

Department of Fish & Wildlife (WDFW): the WDFW works to protect and enhance the fish and wildlife in Washington State. They enforce the state anadromous fish and shellfish harvest and management laws. They participate in long-range planning involving streams; maintain a fish habitat enhancement program, and issues hydraulic project application permits.

Department of Natural Resources (DNR): the DNR manages and protects state-owned lands and assist private landowners with forestry technical assistance programs. They administer the Forest Practices Act, a Washington State law regulating practices such as timber harvest.

Recreation & Conservation Office (RCO): the RCO is a key player in helping Washington protect its valuable wildlife habitat and agricultural resources by providing grants to protect and restore its lands.

Small Forest Landowner Office (SFLO): the SFLO is a division of the Department of Natural Resources and serves as a resource and focal point for small forest landowner concerns and policies. They work to equip landowners with the necessary tools to protect and maintain Washington’s public natural resources, such as administering the Family Forest Fish Passage Program.

Washington State Parks: the Washington State Parks Department acquires, operates, enhances and protects a diverse system of recreational, cultural, historical and natural sites.

WSU-Spokane County Extension Office: the Extension office partners with businesses, communities, and volunteers to focus on enhancing the local economy, enhancing natural resources and the environment, and enhancing economical opportunities for agriculture. The office is located just across the parking lot from the SCD!

Spokane County Agencies

Spokane Regional Clean Air Agency: the Spokane Clean Air Agency (formerly SCAPCA) administers federal, state, and local air pollution regulations throughout Spokane County. Their mission is to "preserve, enhance and protect the quality of Spokane County's air resource for the benefit of current and future generations."

Spokane County Water Resources: the Spokane County Water Resources Program participates in studies and planning efforts for the protection and use of surface and groundwater resources in Spokane County.

Spokane County Parks, Recreation and Golf (Parks): the Parks department works to enhance the general quality of life for Spokane County residents by providing high quality and quantity parks, recreation, and open space.

Project Partners

Eloika Lake Association (ELA): the ELA is dedicated to the preservation and conservation of Eloika Lake and the associated watershed, wetlands, wildlife and fisheries. Through education, special events and awareness its officers and members strive to unite local and regional community organizations and government agencies, to preserve and enhance the lake and habitat.

Trout Unlimited: Trout Unlimited is a national organization with a branch in Spokane that conserves, protects and restores coldwater fishers and their watersheds. They are a sponsor and project partner of our Trout in the Classroom education program.

The Land’s Council: the Land’s Council works to preserve and revitalize Inland Northwest forests, water, and wildlife through advocacy, education, effective action and community engagement.

Inland Northwest Land Trust (INLT): the INLT works with private landowners to protect and preserve natural lands, waters, and working farms and forests of the Inland Northwest.

Spokane River Forum: the Spokane River Forum creates materials, events and activities that promote regional dialogs for sustaining a healthy river system.

Spokane Community College Water Resources Program: the program is designed to prepare students for technical positions in hydrology and water quality for local, state and federal agencies and the private industry.

Veteran’s Conservation Corps (VCC): a program of the Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs, they assist veterans by providing training and volunteer opportunities that help to restore and protect Washington State’s natural resources.