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As Earth Month comes to a close, we reflect with gratitude and resolve. From the dedicated volunteers removing litter from our riverbanks to the scientists tracking the pollution sources and reporting progress on water quality, our community is working hard to protect the lifeblood of our region.

But our vision reaches further. We dream of a Spokane River free from pollution, with thriving native fish—a river where the entire community is engaged in its protection. While recent improvements are worth celebrating, we also recognize the continued need for stronger protections and more restoration to support aquatic life and community health.

As local Tribes reintroduce salmon to these waters, they bring with them the resurgence of a river culture once lost. But their return is just the beginning. We must do more to ensure these fish not only survive, but thrive—restoring water quality, creating clear fish passages, and defending river flows. Our vision is bold: that one day, salmon will return to this river not as guests raised in hatcheries, but as wild fish reclaiming these waters as their rightful home.

Water connects us all—locally and globally. As we advocate for our own river, we stand with our Waterkeeper partners around the world. Clean, accessible water is not a luxury. It’s a right, a necessity, and a shared responsibility.

Thank you for being part of this movement.

For the River, Spokane Riverkeeper Executive Leadership Team 

Katelyn Scott, Water Protector

Jule Schultz, Waterkeeper

Katie Thompson, Managing Director

Voices of Leadership: Insights on What Comes Next

A New Vision for River Cleanup

After a decade of river cleanups and 225,000 pounds of trash removed, you’d think nothing would surprise us anymore—but every cleanup tells a new story. With nearly 10,000 volunteers behind this effort, one thing is clear: Spokane cares deeply about its river. Waterkeeper Jule Schultz reflects on what we've learned and where we're headed next.

Below the Current: Dissolved Oxygen and the Long Lake Problem

Ten years into Spokane’s cleanup plan, new data reveals real progress in reducing phosphorus pollution—but also reminds us that the work is far from over. Water Protector Katelyn Scott reflects on the deeper story the river is telling us, and the path ahead for Long Lake and the life it supports.

A Journey Through the Mekong Delta: Reflections on Water, Community, and Change



Through the YSEALI fellowship and other international collaborations, Spokane Riverkeeper deepens its commitment to river protection, learning from water advocates worldwide. Managing Director Katherine Thompson reflects on how water unites communities across the globe.

Ways to Give to the Spokane River Watershed 

• Become a sustaining supporter of Spokane Riverkeeper. 
• Give a legacy gift to Spokane Riverkeeper through your estate or life insurance plan.
• Maximize your charitable giving impact and receive tax benefits by donating non-cash assets like stock or securities or give from your IRA through a Qualified Charitable Distribution. Learn more here.
• Learn more about the River by attending one of our events this summer