Okanogan–Wenatchee National Forest selected for 2025 Spotlight for conservation efforts

WENATCHEE — The Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest has been selected by the Leave No Trace organization for a 2025 Spotlight in order to highlight conservation opportunities in the area. The Leave No Trace initiative recognizes the challenge of preserving public lands, and that various communities are actively responding through collaborative efforts. These initiatives involve multi-day, on-site education programs and practical stewardship projects in partnership with local volunteer groups, to ensure continued access to these natural spaces.

From June 5–7, 2025, the Leave No Trace organization is partnering with the Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, Washington Trails Association, and other local groups in Central Washington to promote public land conservation through Leave No Trace education and a joint stewardship project.

The Okanogan–Wenatchee National Forest was chosen as one of 18 locations nationwide to host this initiative after being nominated by local land agencies and community groups. The range of sites chosen reflects the unique challenges for these areas across the country, and the education provided by Leave No Trace at each site is specific to the needs of the area.

“The Spotlight program is an amazing way to highlight the power of a community and the steps they can take to protect the outdoor areas they love,” said a written statement from Dana Watts, the Executive Director of Leave No Trace. “This program puts conservation into action and the 3-day Spotlight led by Leave No Trace staff, focuses on workshops, Leave No Trace education, and community engagement to ensure that every Spotlight host is left with the tools necessary to continue to protect and conserve the areas around them.”

For information or to sign up for events, you can visit the Leave No Trace event page. The following activities are free and open to the public:

Friday, June 6 — Leave No Trace Pop-up Education & Cleanup, 12:00-3:00, Lake Cle Elum-Speelyi Beach, WA, Cle Elum Ranger District

Participate in a family-friendly outdoor education event with the Leave No Trace Organization, Washington Trails Association, US Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, and local partners. Learn how to protect Speelyi Beach, Okanogan–Wenatchee National Forest, and other outdoor areas through interactive games. Volunteers can also help with a beach cleanup; bring work gloves if interested. Remember to bring water, snacks, a hat, sunscreen, and wear appropriate clothing for the weather.

Friday, June 6 — Leave No Trace Trivia & Social Hour, 6:00-8:00 pm, Riverfront Rock Gym, Wenatchee WA

Join in for a family-friendly Leave No Trace interactive game night to test your knowledge and learn how to protect the Okanogan–Wenatchee National Forest and other outdoor areas. This fun stewardship trivia night offers a chance to win prizes, mingle, and learn from Leave No Trace staff and local partners. They will also have information available at the event.

Saturday, June 7 — Volunteer Stewardship Workday 9:00-1:00, Liberty Campground, Cle Elum, WA

Volunteer with the Leave No Trace Organization, US Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, Washington Trails Association, and other partners to support public lands. Participate in a rewarding project that includes litter cleanup, fence repair, painting, and other restoration tasks. Learn about Leave No Trace principles and stewardship education while celebrating the 2025 National Trails Day.

You can learn more about the Leave No Trace organization at their website, LNT.org.

Andrew Simpson: 509-433-7626 or andrew@ward.media