
Introducing Guardians of Greenspaces — Episode 168
By Cort Jones and Cara Myers | Posted on April 22, 2025
On this episode of Open Space Radio, we share a collaboration with NRPA's newest podcast, Guardians of Greenspaces.

Community Science Brings Nature, Data and People Together
By Clement Lau, DPPD, FAICP | Posted on April 10, 2025
With tools like smartphones and platforms such as iNaturalist, just about anyone can help expand our collective understanding of biodiversity.

How to Create a Culture of Sustainability at Your Agency
By Chris Lindgren, CPRP | Posted on April 4, 2025
In parks and recreation, we have the opportunity to lead in the conservation of our precious natural resources. Here are ways you can build a culture of sustainability.

Parks and Recreation: Advancing Colorado's Sustainability Movement
By Barbara Kapustin | Posted on March 19, 2025
NRPA recently explored how Colorado is implementing sustainability initiatives on the local level. Read how the cities of Aspen and Grand Junction aren't only preserving natural beauty, but also cultivating a culture of sustainability.

Think You Don't Have Community Partners? Think Again.
By Steph Whyte | Posted on March 17, 2025
Finding a community-based organization (CBO) to partner with may seem like a daunting task, but by taking a closer look at your network, you may realize you’re already connected to the partners you’re looking for.

Wilmington's Green Jobs Program Empowers Youth Through Environmental Stewardship
By Martha C. Narvaez | Posted on March 5, 2025
Since 2011, the City of Wilmington (Delaware) Department of Parks and Recreation and the University of Delaware’s Water Resources Center have partnered to lead the city’s Green Jobs Program.

Protecting Oak Trees: Battling the Goldspotted Oak Borer
By Clement Lau, DPPD, FAICP | Posted on March 4, 2025
The Goldspotted Oak Borer, an invasive beetle species, has caused the death of tens of thousands of oak trees across Southern California, threatening not only ecosystems but also the cultural and economic vitality tied to these iconic trees.

Parks in Action: Meeting Community Needs During Times of Crisis
By Clement Lau, DPPD, FAICP | Posted on January 29, 2025
From public health emergencies to natural disasters, the Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation has demonstrated adaptability and an unwavering commitment to the well-being of L.A. County residents.

The Maine Event: Innovative Approaches to Sustainability in Parks and Recreation
By Barbara Kapustin | Posted on January 22, 2025
Stretching across 30,843 square miles, the state of Maine is well known for its extensive coastline, tasty seafood and stunning national park. It's also among the few states that have state-wide recycling legislation.

Recycling in Philadelphia: A Green Journey Through Urban Spaces
By Barbara Kapustin | Posted on December 18, 2024
Recycling in Philadelphia is more than managing waste — it's creating a more connected, sustainable urban ecosystem where discarded items have the potential for renewal and repurpose.

Reflecting on 2024: A Year of Inspiring Park and Recreation Stories — Episode 164
By Cort Jones, Christina High, Cara Myers | Posted on December 17, 2024
On our final Open Space Radio episode of the year, we're reflecting on our memories from 2024 and listening back to some of our favorite conversations.

Sowing Seeds of Stewardship: Cultivating Youth Conservation Leaders in Taos, New Mexico
By Darien Fernandez | Posted on November 20, 2024
The three-person staff at Taos Land Trust would not be able to care for Rio Fernando Park without the help of a seasonal crew of youth and young adults, ages 14-25.

From Creation to Care: The Need for Ongoing and Additional Funding to Operate and Maintain Parks
By Clement Lau, DPPD, FAICP | Posted on November 14, 2024
Despite significant benefits, parks often face critical challenges when it comes to funding for their ongoing operations and maintenance. However, ongoing and additional funding is imperative to ensure that parks remain safe, accessible and beneficial to all.

Sustainability and Environmental Resilience in Parks — Episode 163
By Cort Jones | Posted on November 8, 2024
On this Open Space Radio x GovLove collab episode, recorded live at the 2024 NRPA Annual Conference, we discuss environmental resilience with Bernita Reese, director of Columbus Recreation and Parks, Ali Rhodes, director of City of Boulder Parks & Recreation, and Michele White. senior program manager at NRPA.

NRPA Board Member Rebecca Armstrong Reflects on NRPA’s 2025-2029 Strategic Plan
By Rebecca Armstrong | Posted on November 5, 2024
This blog post highlights thoughts on NRPA's new strategic plan from Rebecca Armstrong, member of the NRPA board of directors.

Trees for All
By Clement Lau, DPPD, FAICP | Posted on October 28, 2024
In an increasingly urbanized world, the role of nature within our communities has never been more important. The need to integrate trees and green spaces is essential not only for environmental sustainability but also for the health and well-being of residents.

Sixth Annual Parks for Pollinators BioBlitz Celebrates Pollinators Across the Country
By Rukmini Kalamangalam | Posted on October 23, 2024
This September, NRPA’s sixth annual Parks for Pollinators BioBlitz was a celebration of nature, community and the vital role parks play in protecting biodiversity.

Former NRPA Board Chair Shares Reflections on New Strategic Plan
By Carolyn McKnight Fredd, CPRP | Posted on October 2, 2024
Former NRPA Board Chair Carolyn McKnight Fredd, CPRP, shares what she appreciates about the forward-thinking goals outlined in NRPA's 2025-2030 plan, which will be unveiled at the 2024 NRPA Annual Conference.