Get ready for the “No Docks At The Rocks” river rally this Sunday
Here's a good question: Do you want 30 docks defacing pristine shoreline and threatening native redband trout on the Spokane River? No! But that is exactly what could happen if the Coyote Rock Development plans go through to install up to 30 homeowner docks along the river with a proposed residential development located downstream of Plante’s Ferry and above Centennial Trail (Denny Ashlock) Bridge. 
A local consortium of recreation, environmental and conservation groups have joined forces to promote a River Rally protest that’s about both celebrating summer and making a clear statement: No Docks at the Rock. Event organizers 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 this Sunday, August 21st from noon to 2:00 p.m. Put in will be at Plante’s Ferry. Check Facebook for more event details. It's an on-the-water protest and a chance to get out in the sun and send a message about docks.
The reason for opposing this development is both ecological and aesthetic.
From the Spokane River Forum:
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 Abrahamson, 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.”
