Expo 50 H20 Symposium Looking Forward
Many celebrations are scheduled for the 50th anniversary of Spokane hosting Expo 1974. And rightly so. It was the first environmentally themed Expo, bringing international attention to sustainability and the preservation of the planet for our future.
Our lasting, local signature was reclaiming a railyard to be Spokane’s iconic Riverfront Park. Fourth of July, Pow Wows, Pig Out in The Park, Hoopfest. The park is our happy place for gatherings and celebration, or just a nice place to unwind with a stroll or ride on the carousel.
The Expo 50 H20 Symposium challenges us to think about the environment and opportunities for the next 50 years. Climate change, drinking and irrigation water for a growing population, forever chemicals … the list of what’s ahead is not short.
Our keynote and regional speakers will talk about “de-risking” vs “resilience.” For instance, can we “climate proof” our needs for water supply? Should we embrace “transformation,” even if it means changes to the mix of plants and wildlife that call our region home. These are tough, provocative questions. And our speakers have both opinions and specific directions to share.
Yesterday, the City of Spokane provided an example of resilience and forward thinking with the opening of the Cochran Basin Stormwater Facility. The basin comprises approximately 60 percent of the City’s separate stormwater system and is the largest in the City at approximately 5,160 acres in size. To protect the river, stormwater treatment areas were constructed to capture pollution from leaked motor oils and fuels, lawn chemicals, and other hazardous materials.
At the same time, TJ Meenach water trail access was restored with new parking, interpretive signage, and natural habitat. Downstream of TJ, irrigation upgrades were completed at Downriver Golf Course and a renovated disc golf course will open soon.
Said Public Works Director Marlene Feist. “Anytime we can combine protecting the river and outdoor recreation, it’s a win-win.”
The Forum couldn’t agree more! “As we think 50 years forward,” said Forum Executive Director Andy Dunau, “future generations will know us by our deeds such as this, not our rhetoric.”
Join us to learn more about both what’s planned and being built for our future.