Lands We Serve

Liberty Lake Conservation Area

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Type: Public Open Space

Acres: 455

Owner: Spokane County Parks Department

Access: Public Access For trail maps and directions see the Conservation Futures website ( here ).

Partner: Spokane County (Conservation Futures)

Funding Source: Conservation Futures

Features: Hiking trails, wildlife habitat, forests, bird watching, scenic views, equestrian trails, cross-country skiing

The Liberty Lake Conservation Area provides wonderful recreational opportunities in spring, summer, fall, and winter. Its miles of trails for wildlife observation, hiking, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing are open throughout the year. Adjacent to Liberty Lake Regional Park, with views of Liberty Lake, this is an ideal place for family outings and picnics. Ponderosa pine and Douglas fir forests as well as riparian areas and aspen groves provide a diverse habitat. Visitors may see myriad birds and animals, including deer, elk, bears, cougars, moose, hawks, ospreys, eagles, and many upland bird species.

The core of this significant conservation area was one of INLC’s earliest partner projects. In the early 1990s the Liberty Lake Cedar Grove, which contains a half-mile of Liberty Creek, was slated to be logged off and sold. INLC was instrumental in helping the Spokane County Conservation Futures program purchase this vital recreation area.

The Liberty Lake Conservation Area is part of a seven-mile hiking loop around the Liberty Lake Natural Area. Access is through existing trails in Liberty Lake Regional Park. 

Van Horn, Edburg, and Bass Conservation Area

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Type: Public Open Space

Acres: 701

Owner: Spokane County (Managed and operated by Washington State Parks. Discover Pass required.)

Access: Public Access For trail maps and directions see the Conservation Futures website,  here .

Partner: Spokane County (Conservation Futures)

Funding Source: Conservation Futures

Features: Hiking, bird watching, wildlife habitat and observation, canyons, meadows, scenic views of north Spokane and the Little Spokane River, proximity to the Little Spokane Natural Area and Indian Painted Rocks.

Note: Dogs, mountain biking, or horseback riding are not allowed.

One of the true gems for outdoor recreation in the Spokane area is the Van Horn, Edburg, and Bass Conservation Area. At 701 acres, it offers wonderful hiking trails through mountainous areas with canyons and ravines, scenic views overlooking north Spokane and the Little Spokane River, beautiful meadows for family picnics, bird watching, wildlife habitat and viewing, and an opportunity to see the resurgence of an area burned by fire in 2015.

The conservation area borders Riverside State Park and is within easy walking distance of the Little Spokane River Natural Area and Indian Painted Rocks with its ancient petroglyphs. Containing both ponderosa pine and Douglas fir, it is truly a haven for spring wildflowers, particularly arrowleaf balsamroot. In addition to hosting numerous birds, mammals include deer, bear, and moose.

A well-marked loop, Knothead Trail, runs through the property as well as traverses portions of the Little Spokane River Natural Area, and goes to Painted Rocks. See  link .

INLC championed the county’s purchase of the property and helped leverage an adjacent land donation (Haff) to make it happen.

McKenzie Conservation Area

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Type: Public Open Space

Acres: 503

Owner: Spokane County Parks Department

Access: Public Access For trail maps and directions see the Conservation Futures website,  here .

Partner: Spokane County (Conservation Futures)

Funding Sources: Conservation Futures, Washington Wildlife, and Recreation Program

Features: Shoreline, forests, rocky outcrops, scenic views, wetlands, streams, wildlife habitat, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, bird watching, cross-country skiing, nature trails

The most notable feature of the McKenzie Conservation Area is 3000 feet of shoreline along Newman Lake. Moreover, Turtle Rock is on this shoreline, a site thought to have been used long ago by Native Americans. Mount Spokane and the surrounding area can be seen from the park’s rocky outcrops and high ridges. The geology is so significant that Spokane Community College’s Geology Program designed a Geologic Walking Tour ( link ).

The diverse landscape, with upland evergreen forests, wetlands filled with cottonwood and aspen groves, streams, springs, and a pond provides extensive habitat for wildlife. Bald Eagles live here, as do numerous other bird species as well as deer, coyotes, black bears, moose, painted turtles, and many more creatures.

The McKenzie Conservation Area is a true victory for INLC and Spokane County. In 2005, INLC championed Spokane County’s purchase of the 462-acre scenic McKenzie property. Then, ten years later, it championed the adjoining 41-acre Pettibone property to be added to the McKenzie Conservation Area and escorted the combined property to the finish line for Conservation Futures. 

Trautman Ranch

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Type: Public Open Space

Acres: 280

Owner: Spokane County (Managed by Washington State Parks)

Access: Public Access – Carlson Road Trailhead (Discover Pass required) For trail maps and directions see the Conservation Futures website,  here .

Partners: Spokane County, Washington State Parks

Funding Sources: Conservation Futures, private donation (endowments)

Features: Connectivity corridor, wetlands, forest, wildlife, pond, natural springs, basalt benches

The preservation of Trautman Ranch is a major victory for wildlife habitat, for the innumerable creatures who call that habitat home, and especially for the people who now have free access to this beautiful 280-acre property near Spokane. An important corridor of connectivity, it joins the northern and southern portions of Riverside State Park and the Spokane River corridor.

Trautman Ranch is crisscrossed by animal trails and covered in wildflowers. The numerous springs and seeps that emerge from the base of a 600 foot high basalt bench have produced a small pond and wetland, and an unusual near-jungle of deciduous trees, plants, and sub-irrigated grassland. This ecosystem provides food, water, and cover for animals ranging in size from moose and bear, to tiny snakes and rodents, and the birds and animals that prey upon them.

Fully open to the public, walkers and hikers are treated to terrific views of the Spokane cliffs and meadows sculpted by Ice Age floods, and gentle fields bordered by pine forests. According to Eric Erickson, INLC’s GIS analyst and a champion of Trautman Ranch, “One of the remarkable features of the Trautman property is how utterly quiet it is. Due to a happy combination of topography and distance from busy roads and developed areas there are no noises to be heard other than the sound of the wind in the trees and the abundant bird songs. Most importantly, there are many opportunities for quiet, personal journeys in an interesting, tranquil and beautiful location.” As one of the Trautman sons remarked, “The ranch is so quiet you can hear the pine needles rubbing against each other in the breeze.”

The Trautman family worked and lived on the property for over 80 years. John Trautman, who grew up on the ranch and returned to live out his final decades there, wanted the land protected so that others could experience it as well. INLC worked with the Trautman family for 15 years to make this happen. Shortly after John’s death his dream, and the dream for Spokane, came true.

For videos of the property see  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J-yW4cGCRFY and  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h_-IJCfYXtE 

Flying L Ranch

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Type: Public Open Space

Acres: 180

Owner: Spokane County

Access: Public access currently being planned

Partners: Dishman Hills Conservancy, Spokane County

Funding Source: Conservation Futures

Features: Wildlife habitat, forests, meadows, connectivity to Dishman Hills Conservation Area

The Flying L Ranch is an important addition to Spokane’s public lands. Its forests, meadows, and rolling hills provide great wildlife habitat, as well as views and recreation opportunities. Moreover, it is connected to the Dishman Hills Conservation Area and is the perfect point of entry for Spokane Valley residents. Beginning in the late 1880s, the ranch was used as a dairy. A Spokane County Commissioner notes that the Flying L Ranch “provides our citizens a unique opportunity to interact with nature while staying close to home. It will have a positive impact for Spokane county citizens for many years to come.”

For over 20 years INLC has teamed up with its sister organization, the Dishman Hills Conservancy (DHC -  link )  to identify and protect land in Spokane’s eastern hills for wildlife habitat and for recreation. In 2016 DHC asked INLC to help champion the Flying L property for the county to purchase. After touring it, the Conservancy threw in its support, and Spokane County bought it in March 2018. In the words of INLC’s Board President Carl Griffin, “The Flying L Ranch provides scenic beauty, wildlife habitat, and connectivity to other protected lands. It just makes sense.”

For more information see  http://www.spokesman.com/stories/2017/dec/28/flying-l-ranch-added-to-county-parkland-extending-/  

Dishman Hills

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Type: Public Open Space

Acres: 2,700 open to public access

Owners: Spokane County Parks Department, Dishman Hills Conservancy

Access: Public Access For trail maps and directions see the Conservation Futures website,  here .

Partners: Spokane County (Conservation Futures), Dishman Hills Conservancy, Washington State Department of Natural Resources

Funding Sources: Dishman Hills Conservancy (private donations), Conservation Futures, Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program, United States Land and Water Conservation Fund, Washington State Legislature (Trust Land Transfer Program)

Features: Hiking, bird watching, wildlife viewing, nature trails, granite monoliths, ponds, meadows, forests, rock climbing, seasonal creeks and springs, rocky outcrops, scenic views

Termed the “Wild Heart of Spokane,” Dishman Hills is a beautiful quilt of natural properties stitched together, representing multiple distinct ecological areas all within a few miles of downtown Spokane. (See  link .) Considered by some geologists as the westernmost extent of the Rocky Mountains, it is a fantastic resource for people of all ages. Although some portions are open to mountain biking, all of Dishman Hills is ideal for hiking, trail running, and bird watching.

There are myriad trails, from ones with spectacular views to granite cliffs for rock climbing to deep ravines pockmarked with small caves. Many trails are looped and color-coded. (And, admittedly, not all are as well marked.) Some favorite places are Nimbus Knob—noted for magnificent views of Spokane—and East/West Pond, which is teeming with waterfowl and amphibians. In fact, in the spring, frogs’ croaking can be heard from a full quarter-mile away.

Visitors to the Dishman Hills, which has several parking and access areas, are treated to views of innumerable species of birds, native plants, and animals. Deer, elk, moose, and black bears are among the larger mammals. The amazing array of birds includes Great Blue Herons; Northern Goshawks; Great Horned, Northern Pygmy, and Barred Owls; Sharp-shinned, Red-tailed, and Cooper’s Hawks; Pileated Woodpeckers; and Lazuli Buntings.

INLC has supported the work of the Dishman Hills Conservancy in the protection of this incredible area by writing letters of support, visiting landowners, and assisting with negotiations with Spokane County. INLC was directly involved in the cultivation of 480 of Dishman Hills’ acres.

James T. Slavin Conservation Area  

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Type: Public Open Space

Acres: 628

Owner: Spokane County

Access: Public Access For trail maps and directions see the Conservation Futures website,  here .

Partners: Spokane County (Conservation Futures), Ducks Unlimited, US Fish and Wildlife Service, Spokane County Conservation District

Funding Sources: Conservation Futures, North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA)

Features: Wildlife habitat and observation, nature trails, hiking, picnicking, bird watching, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, mountain biking

James Slavin had a dream: to create a living legacy for nature, both for his grandchildren and the public. His dream ultimately came true, just shortly after his death, with the creation of the 628-acre James T. Slavin Conservation Area. This wonderland of rolling hills, ponds, a five-acre lake, meadows, grasslands, wetlands, and high forested buttes is braided with easy-to-moderate trails for hiking, bird watching, mountain biking, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing. Best of all, the park, fully open to the public, is just 15 minutes from downtown Spokane. As a backcountry riding group member writes, “There’s a lot of variety for a little place.”

A spectacular location for spring birding, the conservation area is a vital link in the winter migratory flyway for many birds, where visitors frequently spot ducks, geese, and owls. The 120 species of birds include Black Terns, Pied-billed Grebes, Gadwalls, American Coots, and Wilson’s Phalaropes. See the Birds of Slavin Ranch Season Breeding Status Checklist:  link .

The Slavin Conservation Area hosts more than just birds, however; it is an elk calving area and home to a variety of small and large mammals. The vegetation that supports this magical array of wildlife includes ponderosa pines, aspens, bunchgrass, and most of all, a rich display of spring wildflowers.

This beautiful park needed a lot of work to reach its full potential. Formerly a farm, numerous volunteers—from groups such as Spokane Parks, Recreation and Golf; Ducks Unlimited; Spokane Mountaineers; and Back Country Horsemen—restored wetlands, created trails and planted countless aspen, dogwood, hawthorn, wild rose, and snowberry trees and bushes. INLC also played an important role, by helping navigate the Conservation Futures process and strongly advocating in support of the acquisition.

Regarding the restoration, neighbor Denise Attwood writes that when she bought her land in 1988 she would walk through the Slavin property and hear or see very little bird or animal life. Now, in 2018, she writes, "the area is completely transformed back to its original wetlands, with a huge influx of bird and animal life. We have osprey nesting on our road, returning annually because they have a reliable food source in the Slavin ponds; there are bald eagles and thousands of migrating ducks along with moose and elk. It's phenomenal to have an area of such pristine beauty and prolific wildlife come back to life through conservation restoration. It's a gift to us, to the wildlife, and to the future generations of Spokane."

Gateway Conservation Area

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Type: Public Open Space

Acres: 7

Owner: Spokane County

Access: Public Access For trail maps and directions see the Conservation Futures website,  here .

Partner: Spokane County (Conservation Futures)

Funding Source: Conservation Futures

Features: Wildlife habitat and observation, horseback riding, nature trails, cross-country skiing, hiking, bird watching, fishing (subject to state regulations)

The extraordinary Gateway Conservation Area is small (just seven acres), but highly significant. It is contiguous with Gateway Regional Park (50 acres), in Liberty Lake, WA. Moreover, it is close to the most eastern trailhead in Washington for the Spokane River Centennial Trail and is parallel to the Spokane River. This beautiful wildlife area preserves significant open space and riparian habitat along the Spokane River.

Gateway Conservation Area is a fantastic locale for outdoor activities in all seasons. Everything from hiking and wildlife observation, to horseback riding and cross-country skiing, and especially picnicking is available. Fishing (as permitted) is particularly wonderful, as is bird watching, given the access to the Spokane River.

INLC brought the landowner and the county together to create Gateway Conservation Area. 

Feryn Ranch Conservation Area

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Type: Public Open Space

Acres: 164

Owner: Spokane County

Access: Public Access For trail maps and directions see the Conservation Futures website,  here .

Partners: Spokane County (Conservation Futures), Ducks Unlimited, Spokane County Conservation District

Funding Sources: Conservation Futures, NAWCA, Spokane County Conservation District

Features: Bird watching, wildlife habitat and observation, hiking, prairie, wetlands, stream, preserved old farming homestead

In the foothills of Mount Spokane on the Peone Prairie, the Feryn Ranch Conservation Area is a spectacular place for bird watching. In fact, it is recognized on the Audubon Society’s Palouse to Pines Loop ( link ). This 81-acre homestead plus 83-acre wetland habitat and restored prairie is also a wonderful location for a short hike. Deadman Creek runs through this striking example of pre-settlement Peone Prairie.

The birds are the main attraction. Over 108 species use it as a migratory corridor, and 65 of those use it for breeding. Birds include Bald and Golden Eagles, Red-tailed Hawks, Wilson’s Phalaropes, American Coots, Northern Shovelers, Tundra Swans, Black-necked Stilts, Western Bluebirds, Pied-billed Grebes, Great Horned Owls, Yellow-headed Blackbirds, and so very many more.

Feryn Ranch is a major restoration success. Groups ranging from The Lands Council, to Numerica Credit Union, to local schools have planted shrubs and saplings, particularly willow and cottonwood trees. Significantly, this helps with storm water filtration, thereby cutting down on agricultural pollution into the water system.

Ducks Unlimited was instrumental in the acquisition of Feryn Ranch, a project supported by INLC. (INLC also holds a conservation easement on the adjacent Wiltzius property, which protects a mile of Deadman Creek.) 

Mica Peak Conservation Area

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Type: Public Open Space

Acres: 1,790

Owner: Spokane County Parks Department

Access: Public Access For trail maps and directions see the Conservation Futures website,  here .

Partners: Spokane County (Parks), Inland Empire Paper Company, and Washington State Recreation & Conservation Office

Funding Sources: Conservation Futures, Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program

Features: Wildlife habitat and observation, horseback riding, snowshoeing, hiking, mountain biking, springs and streams, as well as views of Spokane Valley, the Palouse, the Selkirks, Liberty Lake, and Lake Coeur d’Alene

NOTE: Mica Peak Conservation Area is adjacent to Inland Empire Paper and Department of Natural Resource property, where hunting is permitted, in season.

In 2018, Spokane County Parks purchased the Mica Peak North property—a critical 901-acre addition to Mica Peak Conservation Area and Spokane County’s public open space system. This incredibly varied property, which includes forests, ridges, and streams, spans over 2,000 feet of elevation from ponderosa pine to subalpine forest. It connects Mica Peak Conservation Area to Liberty Lake Regional Park, creating the fourth-largest block of public land in Spokane County, totaling 5,300 acres in size. Moreover, Mica Peak North has almost three miles of streams that feed Saltese Flats, including Quinnamose Creek.

The Mica Peak North property contains late successional stands of grand fir, western hemlock, ponderosa pine, and western larch. These forests are home to abundant moose, elk, black bears, and other creatures. The conservation area is also a haven for people, who can enjoy its views and a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.

Inland Northwest Land Conservancy advised Inland Empire Paper Company—who owned the Mica Peak North property until November of 2018—on their property’s nomination to the Spokane County Conservation Futures Program. INLC staff personally walked the property and wrote letters of support. 

Holmberg Conservation Area

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Type: Public Open Space

Acres: 104

Owner: Spokane County

Access: Public Access For trail maps and directions see the Conservation Futures website,  here .

Partners: Spokane County (Conservation Futures), INLC

Funding Source: Conservation Futures

Features: Wildlife habitat, hiking, nature trails, horseback riding, bird watching, cross-country skiing

Holmberg Conservation Area is a delightful 104-acre park for multi-season recreation just outside of Spokane. Adjacent to Holmberg Community Park and along the east-facing slopes of Five Mile Prairie, it contains varied terrain suitable for all hikers, with both easy and very steep trails and everything in between. A full 40 acres are steep timberland and rocky bluffs, while 9.5 acres (easternmost portion) are gently rolling hills and relatively level prairie. The conservation area is an inviting wildlife corridor for a variety of birds and mammals. In addition, above the tree line there are outstanding views of Spokane.

The best way to access this unexpectedly rich property is on the Holmberg Conservation Area Loop, a two-mile, only slightly used loop trail that features beautiful wildflowers in the spring and summer. (See  link )

Inland Northwest Land Conservancy is an important partner that guarantees this wonderful property will forever remain as a park.

Antoine Peak Conservation Area

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Type: Public Open Space

Acres: 1,076

Owner: Spokane County

Access: Public Access For trail maps and directions see the Conservation Futures website,  here .

Partner: Spokane County (Conservation Futures)

Funding Sources: Conservation Futures, Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program

Features: 360-degree views, wildlife habitat, mountain biking, hiking, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, nature trails, pond, meadows, forests

This beautiful public-access property offers some of the very best views in the region, of Spokane and Spokane Valley, Rathdrum Prairie, and Mount Spokane State Park. Within sight of the Spokane Valley Mall, it is a perfect place for hiking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, mountain biking, horseback riding, picnicking, and bird watching. Birds are so prevalent that it is part of the Audubon Society's Palouse to Pines Loop,  link . Significantly, it provides a wildlife corridor connecting the Spokane River Valley and Mt. Spokane State Park.

In addition to a variety of large and small mammals and beautiful spring wildflowers, the numerous birds include Northern Goshawks, Vaux’s Swifts, Olive-sided and Dusky Flycatchers, Townsend’s Solitaires, Yellow-rumped Warblers, Northern Flickers, Red Crossbills, Sharp-shinned Hawks, Black-capped Chickadees, Chipping Sparrows, Western Bluebirds, Lazuli Buntings, Red-breasted and Pygmy Nuthatches, House and Rock Wrens, Pine Siskins, Tree Swallows, and House Finches.

INLC shepherded this land to Spokane County Parks by helping the landowner through the Conservation Futures process. 

Three Islands Conservation Area

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Type: Public Open Space

Acres: 31

Owner: City of Spokane Parks and Recreation Department

Access: Public Access

Partners: Spokane County (Parks), City of Spokane Parks and Recreation

Funding Sources: Conservation Futures, Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program, Aquatic Lands Enhancement Account

Features: Spokane River shoreline (4,500 feet), walking and hiking, mountain biking, trail running, wildlife habitat and observation, bird watching, swimming, fishing (subject to state regulations)

Within just two miles of downtown Spokane, thirty-one acres of incredibly beautiful, forested Spokane River shoreline is now open to the public for walking and hiking, trail running, mountain biking, wildlife observation, and, in season, fishing and swimming. On Fort George Wright Drive and adjacent to Spokane Falls Community College, with more than three-quarters of a mile of shoreline, future plans call for handicapped access to the river. Importantly, the designation as Public Open Space saves the area from high-density development.

The property—with ponderosa pines, Douglas firs, hardwoods, and wildflowers—is invaluable not only for its river frontage but also for its high-quality habitat for wildlife and aquatic species, especially native redband trout. The plentiful cottonwoods, native shrubs, and willows along the river help stop erosion. A crucial wildlife corridor, Three Islands is home to animals such as deer, moose, porcupines, and beavers as well as innumerable birds including Red-tailed Hawks, Great Blue Herons, Osprey, and merganser ducks.

Formerly a military fort and then a nunnery for the Sisters of Holy Names, Three Islands will remain in its relatively natural state. As quoted in the Spokesman-Review, Sister Kathleen Hilton says, “We are grateful that the Spokane River frontage and the surrounding lands will be preserved and protected for generations to come.” (See  spokesman)  Multiple organizations contributed to the forever realization of that vision. In particular, Inland Northwest Land Conservancy supported Spokane County in the purchase of this priceless property.

Photo courtesy of RCO PRISM.

Lake Spokane-South Shore

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Type: Conservation Easement

Acres: 894

Owner: Avista

Access: Public Access

Features: Access to Lake Spokane, bird watching, wildlife habitat and observation, connectivity corridor, recreation.

INLC and Avista have joined together to permanently protect 894 acres of invaluable wildlife habitat just above the shores of Lake Spokane (also known as Long Lake). Thanks to our putting a conservation easement on seven properties on the lake’s south shore, these lands are now free from increasingly intense pressure for development. Better yet, nearly seven miles of shoreline are open to the public. The protected shorelines extend all the way to Long Lake Dam.

Lake Spokane is an ideal place to canoe. Starting just below Nine Mile Falls Dam, after seeing miles of shoreline dotted with houses and docks, paddlers will come to wonderful solitude. Bald Eagles constantly cross the river and soar among the amazing bluffs and beautiful rock formations. Moose feed along the shorelines, standing in the water, grazing on the willows. Innumerable other animals are also plentiful, such as bobcats, elk, beavers, muskrats, and coyotes.

This is an ideal place for bird watching, home to not only Bald Eagles, but also Great Blue Herons, owls, woodpeckers, robins, geese, ducks, and more. Observers in a canoe floating down Lake Spokane might see an Osprey catch a fish and take it to its nest.

The birds and animals are attracted to the lush habitat, which has open stands of ponderosa pines above scattered understories of Snowberry, Serviceberry, and numerous other plants and shrubs. In the spring there are beautiful wildflowers, such as different colors of lupine and fragrant mock orange.

With these seven protected lands on the south shore of Lake Spokane, Avista has indeed made a lasting gift to our area, one that not only provides recreation opportunities and protects wildlife, but also helps protect the water quality for the Spokane River. Truly, this is conservation at its best. For access points, see  link 

Photo credit: B. Dammarell

Cedar Mountain Working Forest

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Type: Conservation easement

Acres: 155

Donor: Kirk and Madeline David

Access: No public access

Features: Streams, forest, wildlife, views

Nestled in the foothills of the Coeur d’Alene Mountains sits the Cedar Mountain Working Forest, a 155-acre woodsy haven that is prime habitat for Idaho’s wildlife, as well as home to Kirk and Madeline David. This stunning land, east of Highway 95 in northern Idaho and visible from Silverwood, is protected with a conservation easement. Its forests, streams, seeps, ponds, and meadows are enjoyed by songbirds, woodpeckers, hawks, owls, elk, deer, moose, bears, bobcats, coyotes, wolves, and many other creatures and plant life, particularly western red-cedar trees. Creeks run for nearly a mile through the land, replenishing the great Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer.

Kirk David bought this piece of paradise in 1980, and he and Madeline work hard tending the forest. In conjunction with the Idaho Forest Owners Association, Idaho Tree Farm Program, Society of American Foresters and other groups they have worked hard to maintain the health of their forest, by thinning overcrowded stands, planting seedlings, maintaining trails, and periodically harvesting timber. The Davids also facilitate “Ties to the Land” succession planning workshops for other landowners.

Dexter Conservation Easement

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Type: Conservation easement

Acres: 44

Donor: Ron and Pat Dexter

Access: No public access. Visitors by permission only.

Features: Ponds, creek, springs, meadows, woodlands, wetlands

For decades Ron and Pat Dexter have worked tirelessly to manage their 44-acre property in the foothills of Mount Spokane as a wildlife sanctuary. With a year-round creek, ponds, springs, open meadows, wetlands, and woodlands their conservation easement provides a resting place or home for a vast assortment of wildlife.

The Dexters have observed white-tailed deer, moose, elk, coyotes, porcupines, bobcats, and flying squirrels to start with. They have also seen a number of reptiles and amphibians such as painted turtles, rubber boas, and, most notably the Columbian spotted frog, which is listed as a Washington State species of concern. The crown jewel of the property, however, is its habitat for an incredible array of birds. Seventy-one species of birds nest on the conservation easement, and 152 species have been observed. These include tundra swans, hooded mergansers, ruffed grouse, great blue herons, bald eagles, goshawks, spotted sandpipers, northern pygmy owls, pileated woodpeckers, pine grosbeaks, Bullock’s orioles, western bluebirds, golden eagles, and so very many more. INLC, and certainly the wildlife, are extremely grateful to the Dexters for their continued, superb work and advocacy, particularly in regard to Peone Prairie and Deadman Creek. Wildlife critter photos by Ron Dexter.

George Conservation Easement

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Type: Conservation easement

Acres: 60

Donor: Archie and Mary George

Access: By owner’s permission only

Features: Lake, wetland, granite cliffs, old-growth forest, wildlife

The George Conservation Easement protects Archie and Mary George’s extraordinary 60-acre property in Bonner County, which surrounds the unique glacial kettle known as Hager Lake. Sphagnum peat moss undulates on the water’s surface, topped with tiny cranberry plants. Carnivorous sundew plants are also part of the landscape, as well as innumerable flowers such as rock clematis, fairy slippers, wild hollyhocks, round leaved orchids, and bluebell bellflowers. Formed by a glacial moraine 11,000 years ago, this rare bog pond and associated fens and springs have been studied extensively since the 1930s. The surrounding forest and granite cliffs lie within the Selkirk Grizzly Bear Recovery Area. Wildlife includes coyotes, black and grizzly bears, moose, woodland caribou, gray wolves, bald eagles, peregrine falcons, and many waterfowl. Thanks to the George Conservation Easement this precious land is forever protected from mining and subdivision, and the bog/fen, habitat for rare species, is permanently preserved. 

Heine Conservation Easement

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Type: Conservation easement

Acres: 119

Donor: Joyce Randall

Access: No public access

Features: Views of Lake Coeur d’Alene, forest, grassland, wildlife

Joyce Randall conserved 119 acres of family land in memory of her parents John and Betty Heine because “they so loved the land and wanted to see a healthy forest and wildlife habitat that survived for the future.” This spectacular property is just six miles from Coeur d’Alene, Idaho amid the panoramic mountain area above Cougar Bay. When Joyce was growing up, the family home was a family-run, small Grade-A dairy farm. She remembers sharing it with wildlife such as black bears, elk, badgers, and porcupines as well as birds that included pileated woodpeckers, juncos, quail, and northern flickers. The Heine Conservation Easement is also rich with ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, shooting stars, glacier lilies, calypso orchids, and so much more.

Joyce writes, “My mother loved being in the woods. She enjoyed the trees and changing seasons. She loved the beauty of the place.” Joyce adds, “My father just had such a huge love and respect for the woods. I remember him picking up plants after a washout and marveling at the leaves and roots.” The legacy of the Heine Conservation Easement is a testament to a daughter’s regard for Idaho’s enduring beauty and her parents’ love of their land. 

Mack Conservation Easement

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Type: Conservation easement

Acres: 120

Donor: Phil and JoAnn Mack

Access: No public access

Features: Waterfront, wetlands, meadows, wildlife, forest

Cradled within a large oxbow in the Priest River, just a few miles north of its confluence with the Pend Oreille River in Bonner County, Idaho, the Mack Conservation Easement is an amazing 120-acre parcel that includes about a mile of river frontage, expansive seasonal wetlands, and dense upland forest. It is visible from Highway 57. When the Macks bought the property they invested tremendous energy and resources into restoring wetlands that had been previously drained for hay and grazing. Now, migratory waterfowl flock to terraced wetlands in the spring, black bears den on the edge of the woods in the winter, and bald eagles perch on snags above the river. Trillium, lupine, and countless other prairie flowers adorn the property, which is home to ruffed grouse, northwest bluebirds, elk, moose, and so much more. The easement forever preserves the invaluable forest, wet meadows, and riverbanks.

Pleass Conservation Easement

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Type: Conservation easement

Acres: 188

Donor: Nicky Pleass

Access: No public access

Features: Scenic views, forest, wildlife, meadows, basalt outcroppings

Visible to all who cross north on the Long Bridge, the breathtaking Pleass Conservation Easement preserves 188 acres of the mountainous backdrop to Sandpoint, Idaho. It protects the Lake Pend Oreille watershed and ecosystem, and buffers the neighboring National Forest land and the popular Mickinnick Trail on the flanks of Greenhorn Mountain. Notably, the Mickinnick trail was made possible thanks to a generous land donation from Nicky Pleass. Most of this beautiful property is dominated by ponderosa pine and Douglas fir, with a mixed understory of ninebark, ocean spray, common snowberry, and kinnikinnick. The undisturbed habitat provides substantial coverage to small mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and numerous birds, including pileated woodpeckers, ruffed blue grouse, Clark’s nutcrackers, chickadees, nuthatches, owls, warblers, tanagers, orioles, and nighthawks. Moreover, the slopes facing Lake Pend Oreille are invaluable wintering habitat for large migratory species such as moose, elk, and deer. Overall, the property is home to innumerable mammals, also including wolves, cougars, skunks, bears, snowshoe hares, turkeys, and bobcats. Owner Nicky Pleass hikes three to four miles on her land every morning, so she can “just listen to the forest.” She is delighted to know that it will be there for future generations to enjoy.

Thad Peters Conservation Easement

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Type: Conservation easement

Acres: 80

Donor: Doug and Claudia Peters

Access: No public access

Features: Waterfront, streams, meadow, wildlife, views

Partner: Idaho Department of Lands Forest Legacy Program

For the last 40 years, Doug and Claudia Peters have owned a nearly 80-acre piece of pristine, forested land on Lake Pend Oreille. As one of the largest undeveloped parcels on the lake’s east side, the property contains trees up to 150 years old, as well as two small streams that cascade down its slopes, bringing cold, clear water to Lake Pend Oreille. It also has a beautiful meadow with stunning views of the lake and surrounding countryside. This breath-taking property provides significant natural wildlife habitat for mammals (e.g. elk, mountain goats, wolves, mountain lions, and moose), birds (e.g. bald eagles, red tail hawks, and pileated woodpeckers), and vegetation (e.g. ponderosa and lodge pole pines, paper birches, quaking aspens, wild roses, fairy slippers, wild ginger, glacier lilies . . . and huckleberries.) Notably, 95% of north Idaho’s native plants and tree species are represented within the property. As an enormous expanse of healthy forest perched above Kilroy Bay, it is visible to thousands of residents and recreationists around and on the lake. Bordered by the Panhandle National Forest on two sides, the property buffers Schafer Peak and the Green Monarch mountains from nearby development. 

Turner Conservation Easement

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Type: Conservation easement

Acres: 210

Donor: Lollie Turner

Access: No public access

Features: Lakeshore, forests, grassy fields, wildlife habitat

Forested hills slope gently down to grassy fields and a home near a small, clear lake on the 210-acre Turner Conservation Easement in Stevens County, Washington. This rural area, INLC’s first conservation easement, is home to a wide variety of plants and wildlife including coyote, elk, moose, black bear, rainbow trout, and innumerable wildflowers. In addition to being invaluable timbered habitat, the land is used for grazing animals and for hay. Although there is no public access to the property itself, it is adjacent to a Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife fishing site. Since 1993 the easement, which surrounds and protects fully 80 percent of Cedar Lake’s shoreline, has continued to preserve priceless ecological diversity and scenic beauty.

Thornton-Volosing-Stevenson Conservation Easement

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Type: Conservation Easement

Acres: 40

Donor: John Thornton

Access: No public access

Features: forest, wetlands, rocky outcroppings, lowland meadow, wildlife

Just west of Spokane sits the 40-acre Thornton-Volosing-Stevenson Conservation Easement. The property nestles against the city’s 450-acre Palisades Park on two sides. The conservation easement’s woodlands and meadow/wetlands provide excellent habitat for many wildlife species. Being contiguous with the park, big game—including moose—frequently travel through. Long-time resident and now owner Craig Volosing and his wife Karen Stevenson often see white-tailed deer and coyote as well as numerous birds, including pileated and hairy woodpeckers, pheasant, quail, ducks, geese, and great horned owls.

About a quarter of the property is lowland meadow, which is transformed each spring into vibrant wetlands. There are scattered patches of vegetation around the wetland fringes containing aspen and alder, mock orange, hawthorn, hawthorn, and dogwood. The remainder of the land is ponderosa pine forest with a grassy ground cover below and a sparsely scattered understory of ninebark, snowberry, Oregon grape, and Wood’s rose.

On this property, under the individualized terms of the conservation easement, Craig and Karen operate Hidden Meadows Ranch, where they raise and sell quarter horses as well as grass-fed beef (hiddenmeadowsranchllc.com).

Most importantly, every time Craig and Karen look out their windows at the abundant wildlife they have deep personal satisfaction knowing that their dream is protected.

Takai Conservation Easement

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Type: Conservation easement

Acres: 250

Donor: Bob and Jane Takai

Access: No public access

Features: Forest, wildlife habitat, meadow, wetland

The 250-acre Takai Conservation Easement is a prime example of forestry at its best. A working forest that provides timber production and harvest on a sustainable basis, the Takai property was INLC’s first working forest easement. It hosts a vigorous forest that provides critical habitat for an abundance of wildlife such as moose, elk, coyotes, and an occasional bear or cougar. In addition, about 40 acres of open meadow and wetland surround the banks of Thompson Creek, a fish-bearing stream that meanders through the property bringing cold, clean water from Mount Spokane to Newman Lake.

The all-important forest includes western white pine and Pacific yew, as well as the more common pine, fir, and cedar species. The Takais are working hard to re-establish a healthy, strong forest with historical species that are both fire resistant and disease resistant. For their outstanding work planting and thinning trees as well as restoring the creek bank with hardwoods and native shrub plantings, the American Forest Foundation has recognized the Takais as Washington Outstanding Tree Farmers. With a conservation easement, their forest, stream, and wetland are now permanently protected.

Hershey Conservation Easement

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Type: Conservation Easement

Acres: 146

Donor: John and Vickie Hershey

Access: By landowner permission

Features: Lake, wetlands, fields, forests

The Hershey Conservation Easement is a magnificent 146-acre meadow, forest, and wetland property at Owens Lakes, north of Spokane between Bear Lake County Park and Washington state land. It provides a crucial buffer for the public lands and helps preserve the rural character and natural habitats of the Little Spokane River watershed. The centerpiece is a 13-acre lake surrounded by a wetland marsh that accommodates a wide variety of birds including geese, ducks, bald eagles, pheasants, osprey, barred owls, lazuli buntings, and great blue herons. Deer, coyotes, and a moose are among the great numbers of wildlife that are also provided lush habitat.

In John Hershey’s words, the conservation easement was important to him and his family because “We share this land with so many birds, plants, and animals, we’ve never felt like we really own it all ourselves. We’re just taking care of it.” Vickie adds, “We wanted to make a difference.” Indeed they have!

Sacheen Springs Conservation Easement

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Type: Conservation Easement

Acres: 109

Donor: Avista

Access: By landowner permission

Features: Wetlands, diverse wildlife habitat, old-growth cedars, forested uplands

Sacheen Springs is owned by Avista and conserved with INLC. It is just an hour's drive north of Spokane. This watery wonderland, which borders a full half mile of the Little Spokane River, consists of two islands in a sea of wetlands with other forested areas on the edge. It has open water, seeps, springs, perennial and annual creeks, old-growth forests, and rocky outcrops. Fully 51 of its 109 acres are wetlands; there are nine specific wetland communities, and even a rare sedge bog wetland.

The pristine property has truly extensive wildlife, including moose, deer, beavers, sharp shinned hawks, Cooper's hawks, red-tailed hawks, great horned owls, mallards, herons, osprey, and bald eagles. There is a wide variety of tree species, particularly pines and cedars. Plentiful smaller vegetation includes water lilies, Columbia lilies, Indian paintbrush, Wood rose, bluebells, huckleberries, Oregon grapes, wild orchids, bead lilies, and wild ginger.

Ducks Unlimited alerted Avista to this critical habitat, which was about to be logged. Avista purchased Sacheen Springs and then permanently protected it with a conservation easement with INLC because “these wetlands, as well as surrounding uplands, provide abundant wildlife habitat, protect and improve water quality, reduce flooding and erosion, and provide water storage.” Thanks to the joint efforts of Avista, Ducks Unlimited, and INLC, Sacheen Springs will forever remain a haven for wildlife, a stellar example of high quality wetlands, and a source of clean, pure water for the Little Spokane River.

Maucieri Conservation Easement 

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Type: Conservation easement

Acres: 500

Donor: Jean Maucieri

Access: Public access limited to Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes

Features: Waterfront, wildlife, forest, views, wetlands, meadows, basalt cliffs, bike trail

The spectacular 500-acre Maucieri Conservation Easement, with 1.5 miles of Lake Coeur d’Alene shoreline and encompassing O’Gara Bay and part of Shingle Bay, is one of the largest private landholdings on Lake Coeur d’Alene. Because parts of its mature forest border the popular Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes (https://parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/parks/trail-coeur-d-alenes), thousands of people benefit from this well-conserved land as they walk or bike past. Prominent wildlife includes white-tailed deer, black bears, elk, coyotes, moose, and nearly 134 species of birds, such as osprey, forest grouse, and barred owls. Dominant tree species are Douglas fir, ponderosa pine, grand fir, and western larch. Part of the Idaho Forest Stewardship Program, it is actively managed as timberland.

The land has been in the same family for over 100 years, and the owner was determined to protect it from considerable pressure from development. She wrote, “I wanted to preserve what Idaho was, the original Idaho. It was a land of wild beasts and bull moose. . . nature in the raw. Nothing had been touched; it was beautiful and healthy land.” Indeed, trail users could tip their hats or helmets to acknowledge the generous gift bestowed to people, vegetation, and wildlife.

Baker Family Conservation Easements

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Type: Conservation easements (4)

Acres: 1363+2520 (Beryl Baker) and 160 + 172 (Janet Baker) = 4215

Donors: Beryl Baker (2 easements) and Janet Baker (2 easements)

Access: No public access

Features: views, wildlife habitat, streams, lake, wetlands, meadows

High in the headwaters of the Little Spokane River just a few miles north of Deer Park, Washington, the Baker family has protected thousands of acres of wildlife habitat and scenic beauty. In summary, Beryl Baker conserved two properties totaling 3883 acres (Baker Easement and Baker Lake Easement) and Janet Baker conserved two properties totaling 332 acres, for a grand and impressive total of 4215 acres. That’s over 6.5 square miles of land forever shielded from subdivision and development. All of these Baker properties are either contiguous or are near to each other—a real bonus for wildlife and stream corridors.

The combined family lands contain Baker Lake, high ridges, forested benches, miles of streams (one fish-bearing), natural springs, lush forests, beautiful meadows, grasslands, and wetlands. The easements allow for sustainable timber harvesting with subsequent reforestation in compliance with an INLC-approved forest management plan. To be expected in land that has plentiful water as well as innumerable shrubs and trees, wildlife is especially abundant. The properties are a natural habitat for elk (who calve there during early summer) white-tailed deer, moose, black bears, mountain lions, beavers, blue and ruffed grouse, turkeys, and other birds, particularly songbirds, such as red-breasted nuthatches, yellow-rumped warblers, chipping sparrows, and dark-eyed juncos.

Beryl Baker explicitly wanted to protect water and wildlife, to ensure that future owners would not be able to subdivide the land, and to guarantee that the properties would be retained forever in their relatively natural and undeveloped condition. This “one-man conservation machine” (to quote INLC’s Conservation Director Chris DeForest) died in 2017. Beryl’s spirit and desires for the land, however, live on. Tellingly, his obituary begins by declaring that he left “a legacy of land conservation.” This is indeed a victory for wild animals, mature forests, pristine streams, and truly all of us.  

Dr. Mary Dochios Kamberos Conservation Easement

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Type: Conservation easement

Acres: 48

Donor: Mary D. Kamberos Trust

Access: No public access

Features: Forest, wildlife habitat and corridor, widely viewed, hay meadow, stream

Dr. Mary Kamberos held dear a special 48-acre property for 43 years, one that she had inherited from her father who bought it in 1930. In her will, she stipulated that the land be forever protected. After her death, INLC was called on to make her wish come true, with the Dr. Mary D. Kamberos Conservation Easement.

This beautiful land is just outside of the Rathdrum, Idaho city limits and 25 miles northeast of downtown Spokane. It connects the foothills of Mount Spokane and Rathdrum Mountain with the Rathdrum Prairie, providing an invaluable wildlife corridor as well as a buffer against development. Moreover, it straddles the edge of the Rathdrum aquifer, and contains a stream that crosses the property and vanishes directly into the Rathdrum aquifer, which provides clear, clean water for hundreds of thousands of people. Nine thousand people view the Kamberos property every day from Highway 53, as well as Highway 95, and Interstate 90.

The Kamberos easement consists of 40 acres of mixed forest, with an understory of native shrubs, as well as an eight-acre hay meadow. It hosts ponderosa pine, lodgepole pine, Douglas fir, grand fir, larch, Oregon grape, snowberry, syringa and many wildflowers and grasses including lupine, sego lily, and arrowleaf balsamroot. Family members have personally observed elk, coyotes, deer, bears, moose, bobcats, cougars, raccoons, porcupines, bats, and skunks, as well as Red-tailed Hawks, owls, flickers, bluebirds, juncos, goldfinches, Pileated Woodpeckers, quail, robins, and Rufous, Calliope, and Black-chinned Hummingbirds.

Dr. Kamberos had a clear vision for her cherished property, to retain it in its natural, undeveloped state as a habitat for birds and animals, to protect the Rathdrum aquifer, and to provide a wildlife corridor from Mt. Spokane to the Rathdrum Prairie. INLC’s conservation easement fulfills that, as it honors and ensures her important legacy. 

Walker-Hass Conservation Easement

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Type: Conservation easement

Acres: 162

Donor: Doug Walker and Jamie Hass

Access: No public access

Features: Wildlife habitat, creek, wetlands, waterfowl (especially Tundra Swans)

Doug Walker and Jamie Hass, veterinarians and wildlife enthusiasts, have protected their 162-acre property with a conservation agreement. It is located in the Canyon Marsh area of the Coeur d’Alene River corridor. Fourth of July Creek, visible from I-90, goes through the property. Although it now produces oats and hay, the Walker-Hass land will soon be dedicated to wetlands and wildlife habitat. It features Tundra Swans, Osprey, ducks, Canada Geese, and loons, as well as deer, moose, and so much more. Importantly, the Walker-Hass property is a prime feeding and resting ground for migrating swans and other waterfowl on their annual migrations of hundreds of miles.

Sadly, in the Coeur d’Alene River corridor hundreds of Tundra Swans die every spring from foraging in contaminated shallows. They ingest heavy metals, a legacy of a century of mining in the Silver Valley. Fortunately, the Restoration Partnership can now remove the poisons—such as zinc, arsenic, lead, and cadmium—and restore the Canyon Marsh lands to again be clean, safe feeding grounds and wetlands for migratory birds. Most of all, the conservation agreement with INLC permanently protects the land from development so that it can indeed be a safe wildlife oasis. Forever.

Sprow Family Preserve

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Type: Conservation easement

Acres: 108

Donor: Sprow Family

Access: No public access

Features: Wildlife, forest, ponds, woodlands, stream, springs

It is hard to imagine a more idyllic wildlife refuge than the Sprow Family Preserve. It supports moose, elk, and deer browsing in the underbrush; Bald Eagles, butterflies, and songbirds flying overhead; Great Horned Owls perched in the forest canopy; and Great Blue Herons feeding in the ponds. There are ponderosa pines that are up to 120 years old, and colorful wildflowers such as showy phlox, shooting stars, larkspur, yellow iris, and lady slippers. This 108-acre preserve is nestled in the Dishman Hills area. Its springs and stream flow into the Spokane Valley-Rathdrum Aquifer, and it has commanding views toward Spokane Valley and Mt. Spokane. An impressive 193,000 people per day can glimpse it from five major highways.

The property was once the Ski-Mor resort, with a toboggan run, ice skating pond, and two ski jumps that attracted international visitors. The Sprow family bought the land in the 1950s (no longer a winter resort), and now, the Sprow children have created the Sprow Family Preserve in honor of their parents, the late Earnie and Alice Sprow. It is a carefully managed forest, with a conservation agreement that protects it from being split into eleven house lots. We are grateful to the Sprow family for their far-sighted vision, and to our INLC family for helping to make it happen.

Photo credit: Craig Goodwin

Gleason's Marsh Conservation Easement

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Type: Conservation easement

Acres: 252

Access: No public access

Features: Wetland, migrating birds, high visibility, wildlife habitat, especially for waterfowl

Gleason’s Marsh was once, and again will be, an idyllic place for ducks, geese, swans, and Great Blue Herons. It is teeming with wildlife thanks to its plentiful wetlands, lush grasses, and shrubs for nesting cover. Three pristine creeks provide clean, fresh water straight from the mountains. It is crucial habitat for migrating waterfowl.

The property, west of Cataldo, ID, near Killarney Lake, adjoins state wildlife lands to the north and south. The heavily used paved Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes goes right by it, and users can stop at the Black Rock Trailhead to peer onto the property. Motorists can glimpse it from Highway 3, where 1400 cars pass per day.

Although Gleason’s Marsh contains legacy mining-related contaminants from the Silver Valley, the conservation agreement begins the process of cleanup and restoration. In the words of the landowner, “I’m tired of seeing swans die on my property.” He is adamant about protecting it for future generations, as are we.