Conservation is a natural for WKC members. Kayaking is a low-impact, human-powered means to explore, enjoy and learn about the natural world. The WKC was founded by outdoors men and women seeking community with nature, and from its inception listed conservation as an important purpose. To that end, WKC supports conservation by donating part (10%) of the yearly budget to local causes.

Past conservation dollars have gone to the Washington Water Trails Association, Puget Soundkeeper Alliance, People for Puget Sound (now Washington Environmental Council), San Juan Preservation Trust, American Whitewater.