Over 400 3rd-5th grade students from classrooms and home school groups sign up for this fun-filled learning event.

The festival takes place toward the end of September at the WDFW Sherman Creek Hatchery and NPS’s Kettle Falls Day Use Area. Contact info@lrf.org for more information and how to sign-up. 

Classes choose one of two days to attend. Students rotate between stations hosted by up to 9 tribes and agencies. Below are the stations, who hosts them and what can be learned and experienced at each.

Learn About Festival Stations Hosted by Tribes & Agencies


Thank you to the following agencies and tribes for supporting the festival over the past 20 years: Avista, Colville Confederated Tribes, Ferry Conservation District, National Park Service, National Weather Service, Spokane Tribe of Indians, Stevens Conservation District, Stevens County Public Utility District, US Forest Service, WA Department of Fish & Wildlife, WA Department of Natural Resources, and WA State Parks.

Hosted by the US Forest Service

Learn how water moves through the watershed. Scenarios are described with students helping develop hypotheses for what will happen. Then the stream table and channel are manipulated to see how the water flows. 

Hosted by the US Forest Service

A 25-foot salmon tent is the location for fun stories and discussion about how fish adapt to their environment.

Hosted by the National Park Service

The National Park Service puts you on the water you know best, Lake Roosevelt! Park Rangers talk about water safety and provide the most important tool: a life jacket. You’ll stay safe and enjoy the view while zooming around on the boat.

Hosted by the National Park Service

Two groups of students compete in a Jeopardy-style game. Topics include fish, mammals, water, recreation and more!

Hosted by the National Park Service

Zebra and quagga mussels are among the Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) that threaten the Lake Roosevelt environment. Park rangers explain what AIS is, why we care, and how you can help protect the lake. 

Hosted by the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife

Receive an introductory lesson on the use of a rescue throw bag. An interactive game lets you practice using the throw bag. 

Hosted by the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife

Learn about the life history of this fish species that dates back to when dinosaurs roamed the earth. The Sherman Creek Hatchery is part of conservation efforts to restore a healthy and sustainable population in our area.

Hosted by Stevens County Conservation District

Learn about the importance of conserving water (rain or shine), and how planting water-wise and native plants is a great way to help save water.

Hosted by the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife and Colville School Fish Hatchery

You may get wet! Students wade into Sherman Creek wearing our iconic orange adult boots to find and use aquatic macroinvertebrates to investigate the health of Sherman Creek. 

Hosted by Washington State Parks

Learn about the adaptations that allow beavers to lead comfortable aquatic lives and discuss the importance of beavers to wetland ecosystems.

Hosted by Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge

Learn about the importance of The National Wildlife Refuge System to help protect and enhance habitat for fish, wildlife and plants. Then explore the native wildlife of the Pacific Northwest though touch tables full of furs, skulls, antlers and more. 

Hosted by the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife

Learn about upland prey and predators found in Northeast Washington, and the different adaptations they use to eat and survive. Examine pelts, antlers, skulls, and taxidermy birds. 

Hosted by Avista

This interactive game introduces you to the hydrologic cycle and how this renewable energy source feeds our rivers to generate hydropower. 

Hosted by Washington Department of Natural Resources

Be fire wise by learning how your family can protect your home and people with defensible space, landscaping, fire-resistant plants and more!

Hosted by Stevens County Public Utility District

A role-playing game where you experience life as a salmon. Fisherman, dams and other challenges await your journey.