Features
Learning Curve
As the field of parks and recreation changes, students, academics and practitioners struggle to define the industry and stay relevant.
2014 Gold Medal Finalists Announced
NRPA congratulates the finalists for the 2014 National Gold Medal Awards for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management.
Reaching New Heights
NRPA and its partners work to renew Charlotte, North Carolina’s Lincoln Heights Neighborhood Park as the fifth project in NRPA’s Parks Build Community initiative.
Additional Articles
Education: Why It’s Still a Big Deal
Parks & Recreation Magazine’s publisher talks about this month’s cover story on the disconnect between academia and practice in parks and recreation, how learning has evolved and the questions we need to ask regarding the role of traditional education in today’s modern workplace.
Aiming to Put NRPA Out of Business
NRPA’s president and CEO shares an unusual strategy — to make NRPA so successful that it’s no longer needed.
Top Dog
The president of the newly formed National Dog Park Association shares her motivations and plans for uniting canines and parks.
Out of the Past
The University of Minnesota’s Social History Welfare Archives holds a treasure trove of NRPA documents and photographs spanning the organization's lengthy history.
Grasscycling: Free Fertilizer, Free Water and Free Compost
Leaving grass clippings on your lawns can provide an easy source of fertilizer, water and compost while saving you money and labor costs.
Trail Safety: The Perception and Reality
Stories of trail dangers may be sensationalized in the news, but trail managers are still responsible for providing safe facilities for their communities.
Professional Development Planner
NRPA is dedicated to providing learning opportunities to advance the development of best practices and resources that make parks and recreation indispensable elements of American communities.
Staff Spotlight: Lauren Hoffmann
Lauren Hoffmann, NRPA’s director of marketing and communications, talks about Park and Recreation Month, her experiences in communications and her favorite outdoor summer activity.
Member Spotlight: Phillip Heeg
Phillip Heeg, outdoor recreation program manager for the U.S. Air Force, shares some information about his career and his experience as a member of NRPA.
Member Benefit: AON Insurance
If you need insurance coverage for your sports programs, equipment or staff, check out AON.
Get OUTside and INspired during July and All Year Long
Are you ready for Park and Recreation Month? Participate in the 31-day social media challenge by sharing your outdoor adventures on Twitter and Instagram with the hashtag #JulyOUTisIN!
Sports and Concussions
PRORAGIS data showcases the serious problems stemming from concussions in youth sports.
Missouri’s Mane Event
The Missouri Park and Recreation Association finds a creative way to fund continuing education scholarships for its members.
Leash-Law Violator Tased and Confused
When a law enforcement officer detains a leash law violator in a California park, what legal options does she have to detain him?
Summer Feeding Fun in the Sun
Park and recreation agencies help fill the gap during warmer months for kids who depend on school meals for nutrition.
Wide Open Playing Field
NRPA’s Annual Conference is packed full of opportunities for young professionals in the field of parks and recreation.
What’s Killing Our Birds and Bees?
Neonicotinoid insecticides are causing major population declines in birds, bees and other wildlife.
INsights on America’s OUTdoor Habits
As NRPA prepares for July’s Parks and Recreation Month, we asked a national audience what drives them OUT of the house and INto nature. Check out the results here.
Nocturnal Activity
Parks’ nighttime events open up a new world of possibilities for residents and visitors.
Supporting Youth Sports in Congress
Rep. Mike McIntyre is the leading advocate for youth sports on Capitol Hill.