Parks are a Cure for Our Isolation

Our parks provide us with that one constant we need now more than ever, a connection to nature. They also provide us with a deeper connection to ourselves. It is easy to get lost in our thoughts of doom and gloom, but our parks offer clarity and a safe escape from our homes and isolation.

Everyone we have come across on the trails is practicing social distancing and many have expressed gratitude for having a safe place to exercise and be outdoors. Nothing like a good walk in a park to calm the anxiety that threatens to overwhelm us during this unsettling period. – Mike L.

With over 7,000 acres, 28 parks, 12 open spaces, and 157 miles of trail to explore in Ottawa County Parks it is easy to break away from the anxiety of today. Parks staff is hard at work keeping trails cleared and our parks safe. They have also been providing virtual programming to give those unable to make it to a park a break from the isolation.

Our parks are seeing more visitors than ever before. If you have visited any of the parks or trails in our system these last few weeks, you have surely seen that they are busier! We love that our parks have provided respite during these times and we don’t anticipate this trend changing. As a park user yourself, you know that once you experience a park, you want to visit more!

The Foundation’s role is to ensure our parks are sustained and can grow beyond what millage dollars support. And we have evidence that green space is needed more than ever. Your support helps us make certain there are financial resources available as new property becomes available. Please consider a gift to your Parks Foundation as we know you appreciate and love having this valuable asset in our community.

We realize we are still in uncertain times but ask you to consider making a gift to this organization you know and love. No amount is too small and every gift is appreciated.

Calling all county residents!

Ottawa County parks is preparing their five-year Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Plan that will be released in 2021. The completion of this plan ensures that they are eligible for state grant funds and provides a road map for park and trail development. Part of that process is surveying both residents and park users. If you are an Ottawa County resident, please help by taking the survey before, May 15.