No Docks at the Rock River Rally
August 9, 2011
Forum Staff
A consortium of recreation, environmental and conservation groups have joined forces to promote a River Rally that’s about both celebrating summer and making a clear statement: No Docks at the Rock. “If it floats, you’re ready” say event organizers that include Spokane Riverkeeper, the Lands Council, Spokane Canoe and Kayak Club, Futurewise, Trout Unlimited, Northwest Whitewater Association and Gonzaga University Environmental Law Clinic.
The rally will take place Sunday, August 21st from noon to 2:00 p.m. Put in will be at Plante’s Ferry. Click here for flyer with event details.
What unites these groups and their members is opposition to Coyote Rock Development plans to install up to 30 homeowner docks along the river. The proposed residential development is located downstream of Plante’s Ferry and above Centennial Trail (Denny Ashlock)Bridge. Click here to see location.
Their reasons are both aesthetic and ecological. Ecologically, Trout Unlimited and Spokane Riverkeeper have taken the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife and the developer to task for not considering the cumulative impacts of these docks on habitat. Says Bill Abrahamse, Trout Unlimited’s local chapter chair, “Thirty docks degrading habitat are not compatible with goals to save native redband trout. On top of that, they advertise this area as an idyllic waterski zone. Encouraging that will only further degrade the shoreline and habitat. This goes against sound science and basic protections for our river.”
On the aesthetics side, this undeveloped area is a favorite location for centennial trail cycling and walking enthusiasts. Opponents want neither the noise of motorized craft or the view of docks and boats dotting the landscape. Says Spokane Riverkeeper Bart Milhailovich, “We’ve tried to reason and compromise with the developer, suggesting alternatives like a community dock and marketing this area as a non-motorized oasis.”
While these groups unite against docks and motorized craft in this area, the Spokane River Forum is working with Riverside State Park and Spokane Conservation District to improve and protect this area’s riparian zone and provide low-impact non-motorized access. The Forum’s Executive Director, Andy Dunau, praised the efforts of stakeholders and partners. “The Conservation District received a $10,000 grant to design an access point at Islands Trailhead which goes along with their plan to rehabilitate the bank and riparian area. This fits nicely with centennial trail objectives and the desires of stakeholders, all of whom are participating in the design.” Dunau admitted, however, “The developer has not shown interest in helping out. We hope that changes.”
Says Milhailovich, “A little river rally, a lot of fun. We want to make a positive statement about the need to protect this area. Come out and join us.”