RCX Sports
The Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO) is seeking public comment on proposed changes to eligibility requirements in the Urban Wildlife Habitat Category of the Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program. This change is in response to the United States Census Bureau’s new definition of “urban areas.”
Supporting Washington Communities: A Path to Economic Growth and Enhanced Recreational Safety
Washington’s docks serve as more than just a scenic gateway to the water; they are essential to our local economy and recreational activities. These docks facilitate leisurely boating, community events, and critical commercial operations, underscoring the importance of maintaining safe, reliable, and sustainable water access. Pacific Netting Products (PNP) is a leader in dock infrastructure solutions, playing a vital role in enhancing ports and marinas throughout the state. Their innovative products not only enhance safety but also improve functionality for all who enjoy the water.
We Need Your Support!
The Washington Wildlife & Recreation Coalition (WWRC) is seeking your help to advocate for a $150 million Capital Budget request for the Washington Wildlife & Recreation Program (WWRP) for the 2025-27 biennium. Please join us by signing the Sign-On Letter to support robust funding for this vital program.
So you’ve heard the term “inclusive playground”, but what does that actually mean?
Accessible playgrounds are on the rise around the world but accessible does not necessarily mean inclusive. It is however a part of the design process for making a playground truly inclusive.
A message from: National Recreation & Park Association (NRPA)
Want to help preserve Washington's astounding natural beauty and unparalleled quality of life? Want to ensure ALL Washingtonians have equal access to the parks, trails, and wild areas that make this such a special place?
Well, here's your chance! Join us in requesting Full Funding for the Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program (WWRP), the premier grant fund for protecting our state's natural spaces and creating recreational opportunities for all. This sign-on letter will go to the Governor and Legislature, demonstrating the public demand for outdoor recreation opportunities!
A message from: National Recreation & Park Association (NRPA)
The Washington Community Forestry Council (WCFC) is a statewide advisory council comprised of volunteer members representing diverse perspectives on urban forestry in Washington state. Their purpose is to help support the mission of DNR’s Urban & Community Forestry Program* and advise the Commissioner of Public Lands and DNR on statewide issues pertaining to urban and community forestry.
The council is currently recruiting for three positions that need to be filled by early 2022. In general, the council is seeking applicants who can represent the following interests:
Outdoor recreation account—Distribution and use of moneys.
(2) Moneys appropriated beginning July 1, 2016, for this chapter to the outdoor recreation account shall be distributed in the following way:
The Eastern Washington University RCLS Programs (Outdoor Recreation Leadership, Recreation and Tourism Management, and Therapeutic Recreation) are on a list of proposed programs to be cut at the end of this academic year. The University is facing historic budget cuts as a result of the COVID-19 crisis.
The EWU Division of Academic Affairs has been asked to cut $16 million dollars from a $55 million dollar budget. As a result, a good number of campus programs are under consideration for discontinuance. The university has already begun the review process that will extend through most of this academic year and expects to make final decisions by June of 2021.
The celebration kicks off in TWO WEEKS. We are excited to celebrate with WRPA members again this year.
As with all events and activities happening in 2020, WWRC is doing a few things differently this year. In the past we have held an annual breakfast fundraising event which featured amazing speakers, inspiring award winners and statewide trail updates. WRPA has always had a big presence at this event so we will want to get the word out so WRPA members can still participate in whatever way works best. This year, from Monday, Sept 21 – Saturday, Sept 26, WRPA members can check the WWRC website here to watch daily videos and meet some amazing individuals dedicated to preserving Washington’s open space areas. Also, instead of breakfast – a live interactive “happy hour” will be held - and you know that WRPA members love a happy hour! The Virtual Happy Hour will be held Wednesday, September 23, from 5:00 – 6:00 p.m. Online via Zoom (register in advance to receive access link)
A Message from Ross Hoover, ORPA
Greetings,
The focus of the survey is to gather data on service demand and operational challenges, both preceding and as a result of COVID-19. Since all agencies are different, the goal is not to compare or benchmark between agencies. The intent is to see the degree of change between increasing demand and declining resources that all park and recreation agencies have experienced. Please carefully review the instructions below before you begin the survey.
A Message from Doug Levy, WRPA Lobbyist
The RCFB voted unanimously to recommend a $140 million funding level for the Washington Wildlife & Recreation Program (WWRP); with only one dissenting vote to recommend $11.3 million for the Youth Athletic Facilities (YAF) program; and unanimously to recommend $9.1 million for the Aquatic Lands Enhancement Account (ALEA). These funding recommendations are in synch with what WRPA’s leadership pushed for in a letter signed by President, Paul Simmons, Executive Director, Tiffany Hanzo Martin, and Legislative Steering Committee Chair, Roxanne Miles.
A Message from NCSI
As a valued NCSI Affinity Partner, we would like to share some new resources we’ve put together for you and your Washington Recreation and Park Association members. We know how important the programs that you run through WRPA are to the families across Washington.
A message from Marguerite Austin, Recreation and Conservation Grants Section
Applications for Recreation and Conservation Funding Board grants are due on Monday, June 1st, by 11:59 p.m. If you have started an application or are thinking of applying for a grant for your recreation or conservation project – there’s not much time left.
Society of Outdoor Recreation Professionals (SORP) has opened its next round of the Christopher K. Jarvi Scholarship to Advance Partnerships. This scholarship fund was created to help dedicated professionals explore ways to integrate more partnerships into their work to benefit and bring value to parks, public lands, and the communities that host them. The scholarships are meant for professionals focused on enhancing recreational assets or programs and should be focused on training that can enhance the partnership potential of the individual.
Chris Jarvi was active in leadership with prominent organizations working to support recreation and parks professionals. At his request, this scholarship was created to encourage parks and recreation professionals to continue to explore how partnering efforts can help them to achieve parks, recreation, and community goals. Scholarships range from $500-$1,500 and may be used over the 18 months following the award. Based upon the current COVID-19 situation, SORP recommends a primary focus for this round on:
I hope this email finds you healthy and well during this difficult time. We have heard from many of you about the extraordinary work you are doing on behalf of your community. We know that special park districts are in a difficult place with respect to the ability to receive funding while still facing the challenges that COVID-19 has brought.
NRPA has drafted a memo that will provide you additional information about the federal response along with a letter that we plan to send to federal leaders on behalf of special park districts. This letter asks for equitable treatment when funding is provided.
WRPA & Other Western Associations Are Advocating for Park & Rec Safety During COVIDA Message from WRPA's Lobbyist Doug Levy
On April 23, 2020, WRPA sent out a proposal outlining a framework on how public parks and recreation service providers can serve a vital role in assisting you to safely return Washingtonians to public life. On Tuesday, May 21, 2020, the Recreation and Conservation Funding Board (RCFB) voted unanimously to support an RCO staff proposal to reduce the local match requirements during the COVID-19 period. Read more below
