Mr. Brian Zimmerman, Chief Executive Officer
Cleveland Metroparks, Ohio
Mr. Dan Moore, Commissioner
Cleveland Metroparks Board of Park Commissioners, Ohio
Ms. Yvette Ittu, Commissioner
Cleveland Metroparks Board of Park Commissioners, Ohio
Mr. Bruce Rinker, Commissioner
Cleveland Metroparks Board of Park Commissioners, Ohio
Mr. Daniel Dart, Deputy Division Director
Gwinnett County Community Services
Lawrenceville, Georgia
Ms. Nancy Pizzino, Recreation Superintendent
Charlotte County Community Services
Port Charlotte, Florida
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Tap into our collective experience. Send your question and some background to the editor and we will include it in the next NACPRO News.
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County Parks Departments: Enduring the Trials of Adding Bike, Hike Trails
Courtesy of NACo
By Charlie Ban
Trail systems routinely rank as one of the top amenities in surveys about the quality of life in different communities, but while they may seem a world apart from the congested roadways and for all their bucolic tranquility, trails are anything but simple.
Trail traffic patterns have recently changed. Jonathan Vlaming, associate superintendent for the Three Rivers Park District. In 2004, the district’s studies showed that 5% of trail use was for transportation purposes, a number that has increased to 33% in recent years. “We also found out that people are willing to take a longer more circuitous route if it’s pleasant,” Vlaming said. “It’s not just about getting from point A to point B. It’s the journey in between A and B, they want to hit up population centers, they want to hit up retail service centers, government centers, amenities, parks and pubs.”
Read more:
https://nacpro.memberclicks.net/assets/docs/2024-11-04-Enduring-the-trials-of-adding-bike-hike-trails.pdf
Boat Launch, Pedestrian Trails Coming to New County Park in Solebury
Courtesy of Bucks County
PENNSYLVANIA - Bucks County has been awarded a $206,000 grant through the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Community Conservation Partnerships Program for the further development of the Hal H. Clark County Park in Solebury.
“The proposed project at Hal H. Clark Park addresses a range of needs related to fishing, boating, recreation and most urgently, river safety,” said Angie Nagle, executive director, Bucks County Parks and Recreation. “This project ensures immediate emergency response improvements and increased community and environmental benefits.”
Read more:
https://patch.com/pennsylvania/newhope-lambertville/boat-launch-pedestrian-trails-coming-new-county-park-solebury
Five Rivers MetroParks: Levy is about ‘taking care of what we have’
Courtesy of Dayton Daily News
By Sydney Dawes
OHIO - Five Rivers MetroParks officials say the 1-mill, 10-year levy that was passed this fall will go toward taking care of existing green spaces and programs.
“Taking care of what we have has been and will continue to be our main focus,” said Karen Hesser, the CEO of Five Rivers MetroParks. “Taking care of what we have not only includes addressing that significant repair and replacement backlog that we’ve talked about, but also supporting the operating budgets that have been virtually flat over the last 10 years.”
Read more:
https://www.daytondailynews.com/local/five-rivers-metroparks-levy-is-about-taking-care-of-what-we-have/CEPLMYWGTZA7ROPULX7ILYYUSI/
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After the Klamath Dam Removal, Residents Grapple with an Uncertain Future
Courtesy of the River Management Society
By Kelly Bastone
The first time river guide Bart Baldwin ever dipped a paddle into whitewater, he was rafting Oregon’s Upper Klamath River. “It spoiled me,” recalls Baldwin, who grew up near the river. That initial experience sparked a passion for paddling that Baldwin parlayed into a career that led him across the country—and back to the Upper Klamath, where he’s operated Noah’s Rafting Company since 2008. He discovered that the “UK” whitewater had few equals. “It was unique,” Baldwin says. “It wasn’t natural by any means, but unique.”
Timed releases out of JC Boyle dam created surges in the river’s flow and some of the biggest (class III and IV) rapids in the Pacific Northwest. And the water was a comfortable temperature: Unlike the bracing snowmelt that many rafters brave across the western United States. The crowd-pleasing day trip accounted for more than 50 percent of Baldwin’s annual revenue.
Now the Klamath no longer offers its famously thrilling whitewater. The river, which had been dammed for over 100 years, has yet to settle into its new normal—and it’s unclear whether it will have sufficient flows to be navigable at all.
Read more:
https://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-adventure/environment/klamath-dam-removal/
A Disaster Waiting to Happen: Where Our Greenways Meet Our Highways
Courtesy of Strong Towns
By Asia Mieleszko
In August, New Jersey first responder Stephen Dunn, known on social media as The Biking Fireman, addressed his Instagram followers from the entrance to Lenape Park. The park houses a segment of the East Coast Greenway, the country’s longest biking and walking route. Where Steve stood, that route is bisected by the four-lane Kenilworth Boulevard. Behind him was a mangled bicycle, several police officers, and an uncertainty as to whether everyone involved in the evident crash was still alive.
There’s nothing more than a painted crosswalk to demarcate a major trail crossing on the boulevard. No overhead lights, no eye-catching warning and, most tellingly, nothing in the design of the roadway to compel drivers to slow down. The posted speed limit is 25 mph, but locals laugh at the suggestion that vehicles travel that slowly. It’s a raceway, and at the high speeds observed, drivers have little time to react to the sudden incursion of a trail user. And trail users, no matter how vigilant and swift, run the risk of not being seen in time by someone driving in one of the four available lanes.
Read more:
https://www.strongtowns.org/journal/2024/11/26/a-disaster-waiting-to-happen-where-our-greenways-meet-our-highways
New Data Shows Outdoor Recreation is a $1.2 Trillion Economic Engine, Supporting 5 Million American Jobs
Courtesy of SORP
The Outdoor Recreation Roundtable (ORR) announced new economic data released today by the U.S. Department of Commerce's Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) revealing that outdoor recreation continues to be a major driver of the U.S. economy, jobs, and local communities. According to the latest data from the BEA Outdoor Recreation Satellite Account, outdoor recreation generated $1.2 trillion in economic output (2.3% of GDP), comprises 3.1% of U.S. employees and accounted for 5 million jobs in 2023.
Read more:
https://recreationroundtable.org/news/new-data-shows-outdoor-recreation-is-a-1-2-trillion-economic-engine-supporting-5-million-american-jobs/
In a Push to Protect Public Lands in Colorado, Outdoor Recreation Gets a Seat at the Table
Courtesy of SORP
The coalition-building started a dozen years ago: conservationists, ranchers and outdoor recreationists, from hunters and snowmobilers to bikers and hikers. They all had different preferences for public lands in Colorado, but they thought they could work together to preserve more of it from extraction.
If they could hammer out a plan, U.S. Sen Michael Bennet told them, he'd introduce it as a bill. In September, he and Colorado's other U.S. senator, John Hickenlooper, did just that.
The Gunnison Outdoor Resources Protection Act, or GORP is one of the biggest public lands bills to come out of the state in over a decade. As the name hints, outdoor recreation is at the core of the ambitious protections the legislation proposes, a sign of how supporters think adventure sports could be key to winning votes for new public land protections in a "drill, baby, drill" environment.
Read more:
https://coloradotimesrecorder.com/2024/11/in-a-push-to-protect-public-lands-in-colorado-outdoor-recreation-gets-a-seat-at-the-table/66126/
Scientists develop groundbreaking method for detecting DNA of invasive snakes in Florida
Courtesy of the River Management Society
Scientists at the University of Florida have developed a pioneering tool to bolster Florida's defenses against invasive species: a DNA-based environmental monitoring test that can pinpoint where they've been, aiding eradication efforts.
Read more:
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2024/11/241122130344.htm
Shark Depredation Project Launched In Florida Keys
Courtesy of Outdoor Hub
FLORIDA - According to charter guides and anglers who fish the Florida Keys, the number of times they come into contact with sharks eating their catch is increasing. The concerns reflect those of many anglers across the Gulf Coast who are witnessing shark depredation more than of previous years.
Bonefish & Tarpon Trust plans to work with anglers and resource managers to deploy science-backed solutions to lessen shark depredation in the Keys. BTT supports the SHARKED Act, a bill that would create a task force of experts to address the depredation problem nationwide.
Read more:
https://www.outdoorhub.com/stories/2024/11/19/shark-depredation-project-launched-florida-keys/
Missoula avalanche center faces existential threat as Forest Service cuts funding
Courtesy of SORP
MONTANA - For backcountry skiers, snowboarders and snowmobilers in the Bitterroot, Missoula and Seeley areas, it's a ritual as familiar as waxing skis or tuning a snowmobile when winter sets in: checking avalanche danger forecasts and other related reports from the West Central Montana Avalanche Center.
This year, those potentially lifesaving forecasts and bulletins like avalanche warnings almost certainly will not arrive on time the first week of December, despite early snowfall piling up. It's unclear if or when they ever will come this winter.
Read more:
https://missoulian.com/news/local/west-central-montana-avalanche-center-missoula-funding-forest-service-cut-agreement/article_a81032b0-a915-11ef-804f-d3c63974e92d.html
Metro Detroit parks' equity practices bring park improvements, more culturally competent programs
Courtesy of Model D
MICHIGAN - Metro Detroit's parks systems have sought to better reach underserved communities in recent years through a variety of equity-related programming such as supplemental school science lessons, hiking and camping trips, and offerings for park users with disabilities. But in addition to these external offerings, parks systems are making internal changes to bake equity into how they operate as organizations.
"If you want to practice equity externally, you have to do it internally," says Artina Carter, chief of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) for the Huron-Clinton Metroparks. "Your employees need to understand and see it happening for them."
Read more:
https://www.modeldmedia.com/features/internalequity11112024.aspx
Hundreds of Outdoor Recreation Businesses and Organizations Call on Congress to Pass EXPLORE Act
Courtesy of the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable
312 outdoor recreation businesses and organizations across the $1.2 trillion outdoor recreation economy called on Congress to pass the Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences (EXPLORE) Act before the end of the year. The bipartisan EXPLORE Act is a package of more than a dozen bipartisan policy measures designed to boost rural economies, foster community resilience, and enhance Americans’ quality of life by improving access to public lands and recreational opportunities across the nation. “The EXPLORE Act represents decades of hard work across the outdoor industry and support from leaders at all levels of government,” said Jessica Turner, President of Outdoor Recreation Roundtable. “Passing this bill will not only meet the surging demand for outdoor access but will also protect our public lands for future generations to enjoy.”
Read more:
https://recreationroundtable.org/news/over-310-outdoor-recreation-businesses-and-organizations-call-on-congress-to-pass-the-bipartisan-explore-act-before-year-end/
Grant Opportunities
Courtesy of the National Specials Districts Coalition
Department of Agriculture: FY 2025 Community Facilities Direct Loan and Grant Program
WHAT DOES IT FUND? This program provides affordable funding to develop essential community facilities in rural areas. Projects supported through this program must demonstrate substantial community support, and facilities must serve the rural area where they are or will be located.
WHO'S ELIGIBLE? Public bodies, community-based non-profit corporations, and federally recognized tribes
TOTAL FUNDING AMOUNT: Unspecified
WHEN'S IT DUE? Rolling
LEARN MORE: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/community-facilities/community-facilities-direct-loan-grant-program
Department of the Interior: FY 2025 Great Lakes Fish and Wildlife Restoration Act
WHAT DOES IT FUND? The purpose of this program is to encourage cooperative conservation, restoration, research, and management of the fish and wildlife resources and their habitats in the Great Lakes Basin. All projects must be consistent with the goals of the Great Lakes Fish and Wildlife Restoration Act of 2022, and the recommendations of the Great Lakes Regional Collaboration's Strategy to Restore and Protect the Great Lakes.
WHO'S ELIGIBLE? States, local governments, special district governments, independent school districts, institutions of higher education, Native American tribal governments and organizations, nonprofit organizations, for-profit organizations, small businesses, and individuals
TOTAL FUNDING AMOUNT: $1.64 million
WHEN'S IT DUE? January 8, 2025
LEARN MORE: https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/357052
Department of the Interior: FY 2025 Rivers, Trails, and Conservation Assistance (RTCA) Program
WHAT DOES IT FUND? The purpose of this program is to support community-led natural resource conservation and outdoor recreation projects across the nation.
WHO'S ELIGIBLE? Community groups and nonprofit organizations, tribal governments, national parks, and local, state, and federal agencies
TOTAL FUNDING AMOUNT: Rather than providing monetary funds, this program provides technical assistance from National Park Service staff
WHEN'S IT DUE? March 1, 2025
LEARN MORE: https://www.nps.gov/orgs/rtca/index.htm
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Webinar: Advocating for a High-Performing Transportation Alternatives Program
Courtesy of the Federal Lands Transportation Institute Training Newsletter
Date: December 9, 2024
Time: 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm ET
Cost: Free
Organization: Rails to Trails Conservancy (RTC)
During this highly interactive 60-minute session, you will hear from RTC’s Kevin Mills, Vice President of Policy and Kim Chesser, State Agency Advocacy Specialist, as they delve into opportunities to accelerate progress on trail and active transportation networks, key reforms in TA implementation, RTC’s data and resources to assist advocates and best practices for engaging with TA managers.
Following presentations, participants will have a chance to engage directly with their peers through breakouts to discuss different efforts and priorities in multiple states and brainstorm ideas, best practices and solutions around TA implementation.
Learn more:
https://railstotrails-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZcldeyqrzouEtScKsp8eW6X58sSUFLCqL02#/registration
Webinar: Green Stormwater in Parks: A Win-Win for Urban Resilience
Courtesy of the City Parks Alliance
Tuesday, December 17 from 1:30-2:45 PM EST
Join us for our upcoming webinar to learn how cities are implementing green stormwater infrastructure in their parks with different approaches from Boston, MA, and Tucson, AZ.
We will also unveil brand new City Parks Alliance resources to help make the case for green stormwater infrastructure in urban parks to your city's public leaders, policymakers, and advocates.
Learn more:
https://cityparksalliance.org/event/green-stormwater-in-parks-a-win-win-for-urban-resilience/
National Bike Summit
Courtesy of the Federal Lands Transportation Institute Training Newsletter
Date: March 11-13, 2025
Location: Washington, DC
Organization: League of American Bicyclists
The Summit will begin with workshops and breakout sessions, an opening plenary and keynote, and an evening awards reception. Lobby Day will take place on Wednesday, March 12, with alternative content available for attendees who are unable to lobby. Conference sessions will resume on the morning of Thursday, March 13, with additional mobile workshops, breakout sessions, and plenary speakers.
Learn more:
https://bikeleague.org/events/summit/
2025 RMS Symposium - Registration is Open
Courtesy of the River Management Society
April 8-10, 2025 | Ashland, Oregon
We are thrilled to publish the program and open registration for our 2025 Symposium in Ashland, OR! On the Symposium web page, you'll find the schedule and agenda, sponsorship information, and a link to register. Members receive discounted registration, and early bird rates are available through Feb. 14.
Learn more:
https://www.river-management.org/2025-rms-symposium
Visitor User Management Training & Symposium
Courtesy SORP
Date: June 2-5, 2025
Location: Vancouver, WA
Organization: Society of Outdoor Recreation Professionals (SORP)
As visitor use increases and public expectations change, we need to have the training and tools to provide high quality experiences while protecting natural and cultural resources.
Learn more:
https://www.recpro.org/professional-development/trainings--workshops
Submit Your Proposal to Speak at the 2025 NRPA Annual Conference
We are accepting proposals to present at the 2025 NRPA Annual Conference in Orlando, Florida, September 16-18, 2025. We are seeking speakers who can resonate with our attendees' passion for parks and recreation and inspire even greater impact in communities nationwide. When considering your submission, be sure to keep next year's theme in mind: "Build Together, Play Together." Submissions are due December 17.
Learn more:
https://conference.nrpa.org/call-for-proposals/
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NEW – Regional Operations Manager
County of Los Angeles Department of Parks and Recreation
Alhambra, California
$132,009 - $205,302 Annually
Application Deadline: Dec 19, 2024
NEW - Director of Parks and Recreation
City of Wichita Falls, Texas
$134,160 - $201,344
Application Deadline: Jan 6, 2025
Community Services Director
Desert Recreation District
Indio, California
$158,398.00 Annually
Application Deadline: Open until filled
Executive Director
Hickory Hills Park District
Hickory Hills, Illinois
$100,000 - $135,000 Annually
Application Deadline: Dec 20, 2024
Executive Director
Byron Forest Preserve District
Byron, Illinois
$110,000 - $160,000 Annually
Application Deadline: Feb 7, 2025
Park and Recreation Director
City of Fort Worth, Texas
$185,000 - $190,000 Annually
Application Deadline: Dec 9, 2024
Education Manager - Central
Great Parks
Cincinnati, Ohio
$55,120 - $68,890 Annually
Application Deadline: Open until filled
Assistant Superintendent – Recreation Programs & Facilities
Recreation and Park Commission for the Parish of East Baton Rouge (BREC)
Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Salary: Negotiable
Application Deadline: Open until filled
For more information:
https://nacpro.mcjobboard.net/jobs
Got a vacancy to fill?
NACPRO will post your vacancy on our website and email a copy to our mailing list of over 1100 parks and recreation professionals for a fee of $100 for NACPRO members and $200 for non-members.
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The next issue of NACPRO News will be delivered on December 17, 2024. This will be the last newsletter of 2024.
If you have news or an article to share, please send it to the editor by December 16.
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