People can be seen walking around the lake at Sunset Park, Wed. April 29, 2020.
Saturday, July 13, 2024 | 2 a.m.
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July is Park and Recreation Month.
Established in 1985 by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), this month-long celebration promotes building strong, vibrant and resilient communities through the power of parks, open spaces, trails, community-based athletic leagues and other recreational opportunities.
This year’s Park and Recreation Month theme, “Where You Belong,” is dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the more than 160,000 full-time park and recreation professionals, as well as the hundreds of thousands of part-time, seasonal workers and volunteers who maintain our country’s wide array of parks.
By providing safe and inclusive educational and recreational programs, essential services for all ages and abilities, and valuable maintenance and upgrades, these hardworking men and women not only protect, conserve and preserve the United States’ abundant natural, cultural and recreational resources, they also help to grow them, make them more accessible, and preserve them for future generations.
While the intense heat we are currently experiencing may make some outdoor activities challenging, it is never too hot to say “thank you” to the people who operate behind the scenes of Nevada’s parks and recreation departments.
Here in Nevada, we are fortunate to be home to a diverse and abundant array of parks and recreational opportunities, each providing a unique experience that underscores the state’s natural beauty, cultural heritage and strong communities. From the breathtaking landscapes of Great Basin National Park to the urban oasis of Clark County’s Sunset Park, these spaces are sanctuaries where residents and visitors can connect with nature, engage in physical activities, and find a moment of peace amidst their busy lives.
Places like Springs Preserve and Floyd Lamb Park at Tule Springs offer green spaces where families can picnic, explore nature trails and learn about the local ecology and history. These parks provide a welcome respite from the concrete jungle and offer educational opportunities that enrich the community. Some parks even offer nighttime athletic leagues to help swing shift and second shift workers enjoy the summer heat without the risk of overexposure.
Moreover, indoor recreational facilities are a boon during the hot summer months. Community centers offer swimming pools, fitness classes, sports leagues and other activities that allow residents to stay active and engaged without braving the outdoor heat. These centers are not just about physical activity; they are social hubs where people of all ages can come together, fostering a sense of community and belonging.
If you’re up for a drive, this is also a great time of year to explore the cooler regions of Nevada, such as Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada mountains. Many of Utah’s beautiful national parks and monuments are also within just a few hours’ drive. These areas offer a refreshing escape with their cool mountain air and stunning vistas.
The importance of parks and recreation opportunities cannot be overstated. These spaces are essential for our physical and mental well-being. They provide a venue for exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle as well as relaxation and stress relief. In our fast-paced world, parks are where we can slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with nature and with each other.
Additionally, parks and recreation programs play a critical role in youth development. They offer safe spaces for children and teenagers to play, learn and grow. Programs such as summer camps, sports leagues and educational workshops provide structured activities that keep young people engaged, teach valuable life skills, and foster a love for the outdoors.
Each of these opportunities is made possible due to the tireless efforts of park rangers, maintenance crews, program coordinators and volunteers who are the backbone of our recreational infrastructure yet too often go unnoticed.
As we celebrate Park and Recreation Month, let us take a moment to appreciate the parks and recreational opportunities that Nevada offers. Whether it’s hiking in the cooler climes of the Sierra Nevada, enjoying a family picnic in a local park, or participating in an indoor fitness class, there are countless ways to engage with our natural and recreational resources. Even during the hottest days of summer, Nevada’s parks remain a vital part of our community fabric, offering a sanctuary for recreation, relaxation and rejuvenation.
Happy Park and Recreation month.
