Our Work
WE WORK TO PROTECT & RESTORE THE SPOKANE RIVER WITH COMMUNITY CONNECTION
Our Work
WE WORK TO PROTECT & RESTORE THE SPOKANE RIVER WITH COMMUNITY CONNECTION
WE WORK TO PROTECT & RESTORE THE SPOKANE RIVER WITH COMMUNITY CONNECTION
WE WORK TO PROTECT & RESTORE THE SPOKANE RIVER WITH COMMUNITY CONNECTION
After 10 years of river cleanup not much surprises me anymore. We’ve found everything from 100 year old wagon wheels to freshly dumped tires. During this time we’ve removed about 225,000 pounds of trash with almost 10,000 volunteers. This monumental effort by the community, and the support they’ve shown us solidifies one thing in my mind: Spokane wants a clean river.
In 2024, the River Cleanup Program aimed to restore and protect the Spokane River through coordinated efforts that involved local communities, volunteers, partner organizations, and city officials. Over the course of the year, we successfully removed 67,110lbs of trash with the help of 2,318 volunteers during 129 clean up events. This report highlights our major accomplishments, challenges, and the impact of our efforts, setting the stage for continued progress in the coming year.
Would you like to lead volunteer river cleanups along the Spokane River and our local waterways? Volunteer leads will guide groups with cleanup supplies along the shoreline of the river, providing guidance and safety while removing trash. This is a great way to support a healthy river and get some exercise while you’re at it!
Join the Spokane Riverkeeper for an in-depth look at what it takes to lead a successful Spokane River cleanup! Each year, we engage over 2,000 volunteers who help remove up to 68,000 pounds of trash from the river’s banks, keeping our watershed clean and healthy. This virtual training is designed for those interested in stepping up as a Volunteer River Cleanup Lead. You'll gain valuable insight into how our cleanups are organized, from volunteer sign-ups and logistics to trash disposal (and recycling) procedures. We'll cover essential safety protocols, proper handling of hazardous materials, and best practices for guiding and supporting volunteer teams in the field. Whether you're a seasoned volunteer or new to river cleanups, this training will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to make a meaningful impact on the Spokane River. Join us and become a leader in keeping our river clean!
Join the Spokane Riverkeeper for a 90 minute tour of Spokane’s Waste to Energy Facility May 22nd and learn how our trash is turned into energy. This tour includes an orientation, question/answer period and a walking tour of the facility.
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. Spokane Riverkeeper’s 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.