The third graders were eager.  Some of them had been to Dishman Hills before.  They’d walked with parents and siblings, picnicked at Camp Caro, and had a general knowledge of the natural area.  But, by a show of hands, most of them hadn’t visited the Dishman Hills Natural Area.  Though their schools were relatively close by, the magic of the woods and trails remained a mystery for most.  Indeed, those that had previously visited hadn’t had an in-depth look at the geology, flora, and fauna of this unique habitat.

All of that was about to change as a cadre of Dishman Hills Conservancy and Washington State Naturalist volunteers began descending on their schools in the middle of May.

The classroom visits to Adams, Broadway, and University elementary schools were similar in structure and curriculum.  The volunteers who led these sessions would be seen again when the children reconvened with teachers and parent volunteers at Camp Caro a week later.  But, before that could happen there was work to be done.  The students needed to hone their observation skills and so the volunteers guided them through a series of activities to help them to scrutinize and study phenomena at school, at home, and, ultimately, in the Dishman Hills.

While in the classroom, they looked closely at lichens (brought from the abundant collection of natural history and teaching supplies kept at the Wilson Property).  They were asked to make observations with four of their five senses (leaving out taste as a matter of safety and practicality), and to list the things that they noticed about the lichens.  Then they were asked to bring forth what they wondered (or questions) about the lichens.  And, finally, to make connections by listing the things the lichens reminded them of.  In this way, the students were led through a guided scientific method practice that forced them to look more closely at the object than they otherwise might have.

During these sessions they also played a “change game” where they were asked to identify changes made after a period of observation followed by closing their eyes while changes were made.  This fun activity paired them with other students who would change their appearance for each round.  While this is a fun activity they could also do at recess, it helped them to watch for and notice the constant changes in the natural world.

Finally, there was a game of camouflage where students needed to track the movements of a “prey animal” as it was passed from hand to hand whilst trying to hide from the student who acted as “predator” in each round.

Having honed their skills for closer observation, the students were now well prepared for their day at the Dishman Hills.

The busses pulled into the Dirt lot at Camp Caro by 9:30 on each of the three program days.

Enthusiastic students were met by Dishman Hills volunteers and led through Camp Caro up to the amphitheater not far from the Caro Cliffs.  Introductions were made and students were led in a rendition of the “Food Chain Song.”  This interactive ditty incorporates hand gestures and group singing as students were guided through a full cycle of the food chain.  Thus energized, and with voices and limbs warmed up, the children were divided into three groups for the day’s educational pursuits.  

With their newly formed groups, the students rotated through three different sessions.  One, led by staff members from the local Fish and Wildlife Office, guided students through an exploration of wildlife biology that included scavenger hunts, and hands-on encounters with animal skins.  Here students learned what it takes to survive in the wilds of Eastern Washington.

A second rotation featured “Life on the Rocks” which had students consider the geologic history of the Dishman Hills and the progression of life starting with lichens, mosses, and other species that find a foothold on the rocks throughout the Dishman Hills.  Here students explored and made discoveries relative to the various micro-habitats covering the geologic features.

The third rotation considered the life of the forest itself.  Here students were asked to consider the “recipe” that includes all the biotic and abiotic ingredients that come together in just the right mixture to form the forests in and around the Dishman Hills.  Armed with this knowledge, the students ultimately “became seeds” with each choosing what they believed to be the perfect location for them to “grow into a tree.”

Between these activities was a relaxing lunchtime that included singing “Dirt Made My Lunch.”  This song speaks to how most everything we eat can be traced back to the soil where plants are grown.

At the end of each day, the students were gathered once more— this time inside Camp Caro Lodge.  Here they finished their day with the “Habitat Song” and a quick review of lessons learned.  From here they were asked to consider who to thank for this adventure.  This ultimately included teachers, parent volunteers, bus drivers, school principals, parents, guardians, and siblings; and, most of all, a big thank you from all of the adults present to each wonderful group of students.

As the students were led back to the buses and Dishman volunteers packed up and headed to our own vehicles it was abundantly clear that a good time was had by all.  Indeed, two weeks later when we had gathered the last of the program evaluations from the schools, they were filled with happy memories of exploration, lunches with friends, songs sung, and lessons learned.

One need only look at the photos included with this accounting to see the impact this program has on the children who participated.  And it is with great appreciation to all of our volunteers and to the Dishman Hills Conservancy staff and our membership that we can truly say— without your support we would not be able to keep providing students with this fabulous opportunity.  Thank you one and all!

Pacific Education Institute is seeking its next visionary leader. The position profile is linked here. 

We are partnering with Chris Cannon and Ed Rogan at the Valtas Group and anyone interested in the role or who may have questions or referrals are welcome to contact Christine or Ed ( chris@valtasgroup.com; ed@valtasgroup.com

). The ideal candidate brings strategic vision, fundraising prowess, and a deep commitment to supporting our mission.

The position is open until filled, with a priority deadline of June 12, 2026.

Dishman Hills Conservancy and Inland Northwest Land Conservancy Merger Exploration Moves to Phase 2: Community Feedback

With decades of conservation work across our region, we remain grounded in the values that guide us  - advocacy, conservation, education, integrity, and stewardship, and a commitment to protecting land forever. You have been an essential part of this work, helping protect the places we all care about.
That commitment continues to guide us forward. Dishman Hills Conservancy and the Inland Northwest Land Conservancy have been exploring a merger that would broaden and strengthen our collective impact. As one part of a broader review, our boards have completed an initial due diligence process to better understand what this could mean for our mission, our work, and the communities we serve. That process has helped us determine that this is an opportunity worth exploring further.
Now, we are entering a community feedback phase, where we are listening closely to our members, partners, and supporters. The perspectives and questions of our members and community are important as we continue to explore this opportunity. 

Why are Inland Northwest Land Conservancy and Dishman Hills Conservancy exploring this merger?
With growth and development accelerating across our region, more than ever, it's important to strengthen conservation efforts to safeguard our vibrant ecosystems and protect the places that matter most. The two boards have discussed what that opportunity could look like and the community's impact that comes from coordinating our efforts, optimizing resources, and creating a broader conservation impact. The vision for integrating the organizations would be to create one capable of protecting and stewarding signature recreation landscapes such as the Dishman Hills and Waikiki Springs, while extending conservation efforts across the wider region.

What are the benefits of the two organizations merging?

Dishman Hills Conservancy brings sixty years of grassroots spirit, volunteer leadership, and deep local connection to Dishman Hills. INLC brings regional reach, robust stewardship capacity, and experience protecting a variety of lands across the Inland Northwest. Together, a merged organization could coordinate efforts, optimize resources, gain greater visibility, and create a broader conservation impact. Together we can accomplish more.

What changes to existing land can the public expect to see if the merger goes through?

The public can expect continuity of access and protection. Both organizations are committed to ongoing protection, access, and care for lands within the Dishman Hills corridor. Proceeds from the sale of any lands in the Dishman Hills corridor to a conservation partner would be restricted for future acquisitions in the Dishman Hills. Restricted gifts to support future conservation projects in the Dishman Hills would be preserved, and donors would be able to make such restricted gifts going forward. Public access on the Wilson Property will also be retained, and INLC's publicly accessible properties, including Waikiki Springs, will remain open and actively stewarded. Much of DHC's existing programmatic work will continue within the merged organization, and INLC's established conservation strategies and practices will be maintained. If anything, a merged organization would have greater capacity to expand conservation efforts - deepening education programs that connect people to the land, continuing forest health and fuels reduction, and working toward completing the Dishman Hills corridor from Appleway through the Palouse, as outlined in the Dishman Hills Strategic Plan. INLC’s public recreation support would expand, and a committee dedicated to integrating the priorities, practices, and people of Dishman Hills would be formed.

What does this mean for the community?

The merger means stronger conservation outcomes, more resources for community engagement, and a unified approach to protecting the landscapes that define our region. Community members will see expanded opportunities to connect with and learn in nature. A merged organization will also bring together the volunteer communities of both organizations, creating even more opportunities for people to get involved in stewardship, education, community outreach, and conservation work.

How would a merger affect the mission and priorities of each organization?

A merger would strengthen the mission and priorities of both organizations. The Dishman Hills would remain a priority, with a continued commitment to completing the Dishman Hills corridor and honoring the community-centered spirit that DHC has cultivated. At the same time, the merged organization would carry forward INLC's commitment to protecting a diverse range of lands across the Inland Northwest, including the organization’s owned recreational land – Waikiki Springs Nature Preserve, through conservation easements and collaborative work with public and private landowners. The conservation experience and community connection developed at Dishman Hills will help shape the future of these landscapes and many others. Our shared intent is to build a resilient network of protected places, deepen human connection to nature, and ensure lasting conservation success across the region.

Will protecting and caring for Dishman Hills still be a priority?

Yes. The Dishman Hills will remain a primary focus area. The proposed merger ensures Dishman Hills will benefit from the combined organization’s added capacity and resources.

How does this impact my membership and donation?

Your membership and your investment in conservation matter deeply to both organizations. It has made, and will continue to make, a significant impact. Restricted gifts for land acquisition in the Dishman Hills will be held in a dedicated fund to honor donor intent.

How can I continue to volunteer?

Volunteering is at the heart of both organizations and will not change. A merged organization would bring together the volunteer communities of both organizations, creating more opportunities to get involved. We anticipate a growing need for volunteers who want to make a difference in the places they love, as the need for conservation continues to grow.

When will a final decision be made?

There is no firm date yet, but both organizations have completed Phase 1 due diligence, and we’re now moving into a Phase 2 community feedback stage. An essential component of a merger will be an affirmative vote by members from both organizations. We are committed to ensuring members have ample opportunity to learn, ask questions, and share feedback before any vote takes place. Updates will be shared through each organization's communications channels.

How can I share my feedback?
Your questions and perspectives about the potential merger are important as we continue to explore this opportunity. You are invited to join us for one of the upcoming member information sessions. Members are invited to attend, share thoughts, ask questions, and learn more about the potential merger on June 8 and 9.

June 8 | Liberty Lake Public Library | 5:30-7 p.m.
Member Informational Session 1

23123 E Mission Ave, Liberty Lake, WA 99019

Register Here:  https://inlandnwland.org/communityfeedback/

June 9 | Spokane Valley Public Library | 6-8 p.m.

22 N. Herald, Spokane Valley
Member Informational Session 2
Register Here: Community Feedback & Information Session

 You can read the whole story at :ons-on-spok/https://www.spokesman.com/stories/2026/apr/16/e-bikes-now-welcome-with-some-restrictions-on-spok/

In 2025, the Dishman Hills Conservancy took a bold step forward for conservation in the Spokane Valley with the purchase of a remarkable 12‑acre property, small in size, but mighty in impact. This new addition strengthens our mission to connect and protect by stitching together lands to the north and south, expanding public access, and securing another vital stretch of the wildlife corridor that so many species depend on.

And we didn’t stop there. With the land secured, we pushed ahead on the next phase: building connecting trails and updating the maps that guide thousands of visitors through Dishman Hills each year.

The new map is a true community collaboration, created with Spokane County base maps and Spokane Community College’s Geographic Information Systems students, Michael Beaton and Garin Scott. Using simply their phones and a mapping app, Garin and Michael walked the Ponderosa Springs and Keystone trails and integrating the data into the existing map. Their work directly advances one of our strategic priorities - enhancing every visitor’s experience in nature.

With the debut of the Ponderosa Springs Trail, the Glenrose Unit just got a whole lot more exciting. Hikers now have fresh routes and new distances to explore:

• Blue Bunch Loop – a gentle, scenic 1‑mile stroll
• Ponderosa Springs + Inside Passage – a satisfying 3‑mile moderate adventure
• Glenrose to Ponderosa Springs – a full 5.5‑mile journey through diverse forest and sweeping views

Each trial offers its own rhythm, its own beauty, and its own chance for you to breathe deeply and reset your mind.

We can’t wait for you to experience these new connections between landscapes, between people and place, and between Dishman Hills Conservancy’s past and its future.

Hello neighbors and friends,

• For 60 years, Dishman Hills Conservancy (DHC) has worked to protect the Dishman Hills (DH) for people and wildlife. Since 1966, creating and maintaining public access has been part of our mission and vision. In the past three years, the addition of the 110-acre Ponderosa Springs property and the 12-acre Keystone Connection, along with a new trail linking the Phillips Creek Trailhead with the Dishman Hills Natural Area, brings us closer to fulfilling several strategic goals:

• 1)    Eliminate human-made hazards to wildlife through the removal of fences.
• 2)    Steer humans use away from sensitive wildlife habitat.  
• 3)    Expand non-motorized trails for people. 
• 4)    Enhance recreational experience through purposeful trails.
• 5)    Update the maps (currently underway).

As we planned these routes, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife biologists emphasized the importance of this area as thermal cover for moose and elk, especially in spring, when they have not yet shed their winter coats. The shade provided by cliffs and dense shrubs helps keep them from overheating. 

With the new Keystone and Ponderosa Springs trails completed, access to the DH Natural Area is improved, and older trails in the valleys below will be closed. Retiring these older routes will also ease past trespass concerns and strengthen our relationships with neighboring property owners. 

Read the PDF Version

Discussions are actively underway between the Inland Northwest Land Conservancy (https://inlandnwland.org) and the Dishman Hills Conservancy (https://dishmanhills.org) to explore a merger of the two land conservancies that would broaden and strengthen our collective impact. Our shared intent is to continue building a resilient network of protected places, deepen human connection to nature, and ensure lasting conservation success across the region for people and wildlife. More information to follow.

A few of our volunteers recently took Dan Wilson to lunch as a thank-you for everything he does for the Dishman Hills Conservancy. Dan began volunteering with the Conservancy in 2016 and quickly became an invaluable member of the team. After the purchase of the Wilson property, he was hired to manage the property and coordinate volunteers. You’ll often find Dan out on the trails clearing brush or checking for downed trees—feel free to say hello the next time you see him!

During the week of December 7-13, heavy rainfall has caused muddy trails. Watch for slick conditions and warning signs. Hiking poles and/or traction devices are recommended if you choose to proceed.

Explore the Pacific Northwest’s Community Forests, including the Dishman Hills, and learn how they provide meaningful environmental, economic, and social benefits to local communities.

https://www.nwcommunityforests.org/forests-for-communities?mc_cid=59ad2f6a64&mc_eid=20ba2ab49d