Framework provides tools and resources local government agencies can use to evaluate the benefits of green infrastructure in parks nationwide

Ashburn, Va. (July 29, 2019) — The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) announces the availability of its Green Infrastructure (GI) Evaluation Framework. Part of the Great Urban Parks Campaign, this new framework offers a variety of tools, research-informed analysis, worksheets and other resources to help park and recreation agency staff, local government officials and others evaluate the benefits of green infrastructure projects in communities across the country.

Historically, when measuring the impact of GI in communities, the benefits have focused mainly on stormwater treatment. However, the benefits of GI are far more encompassing, and include positive environmental and social outcomes, such as increased climate resiliency, community engagement and health and fitness benefits. NRPA’s evaluation framework recognizes these benefits, and allows communities to assess:

• Environmental benefits for water, air, land and wildlife in and around their GI project area
• Health benefits for the physical and mental health of members in their community
• Social benefits focused on community cohesion and public safety, as well as how their project has boosted the neighborhood’s green infrastructure knowledge and use
• Economic benefits to local workforce and business development

“Green infrastructure in parks is an approach that communities of all sizes can use to build and strengthen their resiliency efforts,” said Kristine Stratton, NRPA president and CEO. “NRPA is committed to this cause and we encourage local government agencies everywhere to use this framework to evaluate and strengthen their new or existing green infrastructure plans.”

Divided into three steps, NRPA’s evaluation framework takes users through the whole GI lifecycle, and arms them with a clear, organized evaluation plan to assess their project. Step one focuses on defining benefits and measures; steps two and three focus on collecting and using data.

GI in parks helps improve water quality, increase climate resiliency through reduced flooding, enhance the ability of the site to hold and retain stormwater and improve wildlife habitat, all while providing increased access to nature and outdoor recreation in underserved communities. Find additional information about the benefits of GI in parks here. 

Funding for this work is provided by The JPB Foundation.

See copy of the evaluation framework here. 

To learn more about NRPA, visit www.nrpa.org.   

###

About the National Recreation and Park Association
The National Recreation and Park Association is a national not-for-profit organization dedicated to ensuring that all Americans have access to parks and recreation for health, conservation and social equity. Through its network of 60,000 recreation and park professionals and advocates, NRPA encourages the promotion of healthy and active lifestyles, conservation initiatives and equitable access to parks and public space. For more information, visit www.nrpa.org. For digital access to NRPA’s flagship publication, Parks & Recreation, visit www.parksandrecreation.org.