4422 E. 8th Ave. Spokane Valley 99212

In 2017, Spokane Conservation District (SCD) acquired 50 strategically located acres where Spokane meets the Spokane Valley to establish a hub for operations and a resource for watershed protection, habitat preservation, recreation, and education. The property features diverse geological, hydrological, and ecological elements, making it ideal for conservation.

Key structures include our office, a scale house, The Nest community school (offering nature-inspired, play-based learning for children aged 2.5 to 5 and Kindergarten), and a new partnership building. The Washington Small Business Development Center (WSBDC) leases 5,300 square feet of the partnership building, with the remaining space being outfitted as a conference center for regional and community events.

Since acquisition, we've added a tree nursery, renovated ponds, built trails, and employed goats for weed management. Additional features include a plant propagation greenhouse, composting and demonstration areas, bat boxes, commissioned art, and a "Friend of the Quarry Volunteer Group." Future plans include hosting the Master Gardeners' Greenhouse onsite.

The Scale House Market and Kitchen addresses Spokane's need for a year-round farmers market and commercial kitchen, supporting farm and food businesses, food system resilience, and community vibrancy. A recent CERB feasibility study estimates the market will attract 249,000 annual visitors, including 18,000 qualifying for food assistance programs like SNAP, Market Match, Senior Farmers Market Nutrition, and WIC.

Overseen by the SCD board and managed by a professional team, the market's mission is to foster community connections, cultivate relationships, and provide a learning environment.

Located at SCD's Quarry campus, the 4,300-square-foot scale house will host 25 vendors, a commercial kitchen, cold storage, and public restrooms. An adjacent 7,100-square-foot open-air space will feature 30 vendors, food trucks, a stage for demonstrations, and an arts-and-culture activity area. Learn more at TheScaleHouseMarket.com