The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) has announced a new partnership with the National Park Service (NPS) to foster excellence in park and recreation management and to expand access to quality outdoor recreational opportunities for all people.

Under this agreement, NRPA and the NPS will jointly promote conservation, health, wellness, and equitable access to recreational opportunities through a well-managed park system. The collaboration will encompass local, regional, state, and national parks entities, as well as various agency divisions and programs.

 
With a network of over 60,000 park and recreation professionals and advocates, NRPA represents public spaces in urban communities, rural settings, and everywhere in between. The organization supports the parks and recreation field through professional development, advocacy, grants, research, publications, and more.

On the other hand, the NPS is responsible for over 400 national parks and oversees numerous community-based programs that preserve local history and create accessible recreational opportunities close to home. As a leading land manager, the NPS plays a crucial role in maintaining public lands and ensuring universal access to parks, lands, and waters that promote overall physical, mental, social, and psychological well-being and health.

NRPA President and CEO, Kristine Stratton, expressed gratitude for the partnership, saying, "Our organizations work tirelessly each day to ensure everyone has access to quality, outdoor opportunities. Working together will help us reach more people, strengthen the professionals serving our communities, and make our great parks and green spaces even better."

National Park Service Director Chuck Sams stressed the importance of equal and safe access to nature and outdoor recreation opportunities, stating, "Time spent outside in national parks and other federal, state, regional, and local public lands is vital to health and well-being. This new formal agreement enables the National Park Service and NRPA to easily collaborate on shared concerns, promising practices, and public outreach efforts."

By joining forces, NRPA and the National Park Service aim to break down barriers and create a more inclusive and accessible outdoor experience for all Americans. The collaboration holds the promise of expanding outdoor recreational opportunities and fostering a deeper connection to nature, ultimately contributing to the well-being and happiness of communities across the nation.

https://www.nrpa.org/about-national-recreation-and-park-association/press-room/national-recreation-and-park-association-proudly-announces-new-agreement-with-the-national-park-service/