Jasmine Vilar
Understanding the Spokane Complex Fires

After a disaster like the Spokane Complex fires, we ask: why did this happen? 

This fire is the latest in a series of wildfires that have affected thousands in Spokane, on the Colville Reservation, the Spokane Reservation, Stevens County, Chelan, as well as many in central and eastern Oregon and countless other places across the US and Canada. Today's wildfires are burning larger, hotter, and more frequently than they have in the past.

There isn’t one single factor as to why we are experiencing these catastrophic fires.

Understanding the Spokane Complex Fires
Jasmine Vilar
Agency is the Antidote to Despair: An Earth Day ...

Each year, Earth Day calls us to celebrate the natural world and take action to protect the lands, waters, and wildlife that sustain us. Earth Day started in 1970, and today, 56 years after that first Earth Day, we face new global and local environmental threats. There are real reasons to feel worried right now. But here’s something else that’s real: for 3.8 billion years, life on Earth has been creating conditions conducive to life. 

Agency is the Antidote to Despair: An Earth Day Reflection
Jasmine Vilar
A Win for Spokane: Common Ground on Waste Policy

The 2026 legislative session delivered something rare: a meaningful climate policy win shaped by collaboration across communities, geographies, and perspectives.

HB 2416, regarding the regulation of Spokane’s Waste to Energy plant, has officially passed. With it comes a solution that protects Spokane ratepayers, upholds Washington’s Climate Commitment Act , and creates real accountability for reducing waste and greenhouse gas emissions over time.

This is a big deal.

A Win for Spokane: Common Ground on Waste Policy
Education
Jasmine Vilar
Six More Weeks of Winter - But Where Is It?

Happy Groundhog Day, everyone!
Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow this morning, which means we can expect 6 more weeks of winter. While most of the country may be lamenting this prediction, much of the western US is wondering if winter has even shown up at all!

Six More Weeks of Winter - But Where Is It?
Jasmine Vilar
2025 By The Numbers

Think you know everything about The Lands Council? From our education programs to the number of trees we've planted, our work is filled with amazing milestones! Now, you can put your knowledge to the test with our exciting trivia game: By the Numbers, created by our very own Justyce. Whether you're a long-time supporter or new to our mission, this game offers a fun way to celebrate our achievements and learn more about our impact in the Inland Northwest.

2025 By The Numbers

A Letter from Our Climate Justice Program Director | April 2024

A Letter from Our Climate Justice Program Director | April 2024

By: Naghmana Sherazi

It has been a long journey to advancing climate policy and making Washington state a leader in ensuring our communities have clean water, clean air, and a just transition away from fossil fuels. The Climate Commitment Act (CCA) plays a pivotal role  in our fight against climate change, guiding us towards the ambitious goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Through measures like pollution reduction and carbon pricing, the CCA not only caps emissions but also fuels investments in vital climate solutions.

From the ED | April 2024

From the ED | April 2024

By: Amanda Parrish

How did The Lands Council come to be in possession of Pearl Jam’s Eddie Vedder’s canoe? If you guessed it was because of our work protecting the Colville National Forest, you’d be right! We’ve worked for decades to ensure public lands of the Inland Northwest remain public and are managed with future generations in mind, and it looks like we’ve gotten the attention of likeminded conservation heroes in the music industry. Of course, the story’s a little more complicated than that and we’ll be auctioning off the canoe along with a signed photograph later this fall. To learn more about our rockstar connections in the meantime, come to one of our many upcoming spring events and we’ll give you the inside scoop.

Fall Riparian Restoration Update | December 2023

Fall Riparian Restoration Update | December 2023

By Kat Hall

We’re pleased to report the successful completion of another busy, fun, and productive fall riparian restoration season at The Lands Council! This year’s “Rocktober,” as we affectionately call it, saw us planting over 2,600 native trees and shrubs along Thompson Creek, Deadman Creek, Marshall Creek, and the Little Spokane River. This vegetation helps to stabilize soil and prevent erosion; filters contaminants running off adjacent roads and agricultural fields; shades the creek—cooling water temperatures and allowing for more dissolved oxygen; and enhances wildlife habitat. 

The Only Constant in Life is Change | September 2023

Dear Friends of The Lands Council,

After much consideration and with a heart full of gratitude, I will be stepping down at the end of this month from my role as Communications Director at The Lands Council to embark on a new(ish) journey. I am thrilled to announce that I will be taking on a full-time position with Girls on the Run of Spokane County, an organization that empowers young girls to embrace their limitless potential through running. As many of you know, I have worked at both organizations for 9 years and the time has come for me to focus on one endeavor.

Voting Restoration Act and the 2023 Free the Vote Mural Events | September 2023

Voting Restoration Act and the 2023 Free the Vote Mural Events | September 2023

By Naghmana Sherazi

To celebrate National Voter Registration Day on September 19th, WA the Voting Rights Restoration Coalition held a Free the Vote Mural Event at the American Indian Community Center. During this event, formerly incarcerated activist and artist, Jacob Johns, unveiled his mural in support. Washington Secretary of State, Steve Hobbs, also attended.

Celebrating 20 Years of the Spokane River Clean-Up | September 2023

Celebrating 20 Years of the Spokane River Clean-Up | September 2023

By Lindsay Box

Last Saturday, fall finally graced the Inland Northwest with her presence for the most beautiful day for the 20th annual Spokane River Clean-Up. This beloved community tradition not only celebrated two decades of environmental stewardship, but it also showcased the unwavering commitment of the Spokane community to our beloved Spokane River. On this sunshiny day, over 400 participants rolled up their sleeves and set out to make a significant impact!

Climate Change, Wildfires, and What You Can Do to Prepare | August 2023

Climate Change, Wildfires, and What You Can Do to Prepare | August 2023

By Naghmana Sherazi

The first 12 days of August saw high temperatures globally that were either at par with previous records or beat them. We really need to consider what we are doing to combat climate change. To make a difference today, please bring 5 canned good items to your nearest foodbank. If you want to talk about what you can do as an individual, or as an organization, please reach out to me at nsherazi@landscouncil.org.

Renew and Reconnect: Join The Lands Council's Conservation Community Today! | August 2023

Renew and Reconnect: Join The Lands Council's Conservation Community Today! | August 2023

The Lands Council’s members are critical to our mission of preserving and revitalizing our Inland Northwest forests, water, and wildlife. Our member dedication is truly the driving force behind our organization – and we need support now more than ever.

P.S. Make an even bigger impact today by becoming a monthly donor. Giving monthly means that you can donate more by spreading your gifts over time. A regular stream of expected income helps us plan and budget for the future. Your consistent support ensures vital resources are available year-round, empowering us to tackle challenges head-on. And if you sign up to be a monthly donor by September 15th, you will be automatically entered to win a Pelican kayak and paddle! Together, we can drive change and create a brighter future. Choose monthly giving today!