Dishman Hills Conservancy

Programs: Conservation land management: the dhc acquires and manages conservation lands. As of the end of 2015, the dhc owned 718 acres, has conservation easements on 25 acres and co-manages the dishman hills natural area with spokane county and washington state. The overall conservation land in the dishman hills includes over 2500 acres. Other projects included trail construction and maintenance, signage, ecological restoration, weed control, and trailhead improvements. The dhc conducts an education day program for fifth grade classes in several school districts (approximately 225 students). The dhc also provides a series of nature walks involving 320 participants.

outreach publications: the dhc publishes a monthly newsletter and maintains a website to promote conservation in the dishman hills and spokane county. The newsletter includes articles on organization history, dishman hills ecology and dhc programs including current events. Donors and sponsors are recognized in the newsletter. The member database is integrated with the website. The website is used for dhc event registration. The dhc has a large social media presence on facebook to interact with supporters and the community. Dhc uses email to announce events and programs.

conservation land protection: the dishman hills conservancy seeks to protect conservation land through purchases or conservation easements. Dhc maintains regular communication with the landowners in the dishman hills so we can work together on common interests such as fire control and weed management. The purchases are accomplished with funding from donations, spokane county conservation futures monies or washington state grants. The loan to acquire 27 acres of prime conservation land adjoining the natural area to provide a buffer for the lost ponds and birch hollow was repaid in 2015 with donations. Dhc has built long-term support through planned giving and endowments.