OUTLANDER serves as a weekly round up of Inland Northwest outdoor recreation and natural resources news. This feature will highlight a wide variety of issues and events, ranging from camping stories to national environmental disputes. We’ll also try to include some scenic photos. Feel free to pass along suggestions or curiosities. The Inlander looks forward to sharing and celebrating the Great Outdoors.
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So we have a huge story on the water quality history of the Spokane River this week, including some info on the new Riverkeeper, city water plans, fish consumption, lots of sewage, drunken inner tubing and the great Expo '74 fish massacre. We're hoping this story can serve as a foundation for future coverage, so feel free to pass along updates on other issues tied into the health of the river. (Inlander)
Speaking of which, the state Dept. of Ecology put out draft fish consumption rules this week. Lots of folks are less than impressed. (Inlander)
As the weather turns a bit brisker, Washington State Parks have posted their off-season parks schedule. (WAParks)
The Washington State Parks Foundation is also accepting applications for small grants on park improvement projects. (WSPF)
Widely respected climber and guide Liz Daley, of Tacoma, died Monday in an avalanche in Argentina. (Bellingham Herald)
The Huckleberry wolf pack conflict reportedly cost $53,000. (S-R) WDFW officials will host a meeting on wolf management in Colville on Oct. 7. (WDFW)
State officials have lifted burn bans on many areas of Eastern Washington. (WDFW)
The Washington Trails Association will close its annual Northwest Exposure outdoor photography contest on Oct. 19. Prizes awarded in categories like Trailscapes, Camp Life and Hikers in Action. (WTA)
Speaking of outdoor photos, the Forest Service took a lot of heat last week over improperly forcing photojournalists to get expensive permits in wilderness areas. (Seattle Times)
Meanwhile, the U.S. Forest Service releases a video feature on what it takes to be a wildland firefighter. (USDA)
A not-so-surprising study concludes hiking makes you happier. (Outside)
Anyone who missed the Pacific Northwest Climate Science Conference in September can watch the speakers online. (PNCSC/Youtube)
A WWF International study finds total wildlife populations have decreased by 52 percent over the past 40 years. (AP)
