Today on The 425 Show we chatted with Cynthia Krass, Executive Director of the Snoqualmie Valley Preservation Alliance (SPVA), which is dedicated to finding sustainable solutions for the land use and floodplain management of the valley.
Starting as a non-profit organization in 2010, SPVA began as a response to the widening and lowering of the Snoqualmie Falls, which had a negative impact on the farmland flooding. SVPA has been the advocate for hundreds of generational family farmers, dairy farmers, and businesses at county, state, and federal levels to find balance in long-term planning. Realizing the power of the collective group they had formed, they continued to support the organization and became fully staffed in 2013.
As a long time resident, bicyclist, and farm customer to the valley for over 20 years, Cynthia joined SPVA in 2013 as the organization’s first executive director. Her background in land using planning and a Master of Urban Planning, she and her team are passionate about solving the hundreds of threats to the valley most people don’t think, or know about.
Some of their largest accomplishments have been the development of the Snoqualmie Valley WID, the first irrigation district in King County in more than six decades! SVPA helped farmers and rural landowners across the 14,000 acres of floodplain in the Snoqualmie Valley have a voice in discussions around water rights and drainage projects. The auction was Washington State’s first two-way water auction open to both water right buyers and sellers- those wishing to lease excess water rights and those in need of water rights for irrigation.
All of this wouldn’t be possible without their largest annual fundraising event, ‘The Taste Of The Valley’. Every year Goose Gander Farm turns their working farm into the states largest on-farm dinner, and benefit auction to raise support for SVPA’s programs. Showcasing some of the best food and drink from the region. Over a dozen chefs from top restaurants such as Salish Lodge, Flat Iron Grill, and Levitate Gastro Pub donate their time, and prepare gourmet bites from products sourced from the valley. Enjoy sips from some favorite local breweries like No Boat Brewing Company, and favorite wines from Sigillo Cellars in Snoqualmie.
The evening ends with a lively silent, and live auction with some pretty amazing auction items! Bid on a favorite “Ten Mile Chili Package”, all items, including meat, vegetables, and spices within 10 miles of the valley. For a romantic getaway you can bid on a 2 night stay in the trees, at the popular Tree House Point in Fall City. For a unique dining experience bid on Human Nature Hunting School’s shellfish forage feast for two.
You don’t want to miss out on this event, happening on July 27th! Tickets are available to purchase online for $100, and includes all bites and tastings you can eat. For more auction items, and event details follow them on SVPA Facebook page. If you are interested in finding out more about volunteering, or how you can donate and contribute to their programs, saving the valley visit their website.
Cheers!
Nicole
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