Kristine Stratton, president and CEO of the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), issued the following statement in response to Hurricane Ida making landfall in Louisiana:

“NRPA joins our colleagues in the Gulf Coast region in support of the thousands of people whose lives are in danger due to Hurricane Ida. We are horrified as we see the damage unfold in Louisiana and beyond. Our thoughts are with those in the path of the storm, and our deepest condolences to all who have suffered losses.

Hurricane Ida made landfall on Sunday, August 29, in Port Fourchon, Louisiana, as a Category 4 storm with 150 mph winds, making it one of the strongest hurricanes in U.S. history to hit Louisiana, according to the National Hurricane Center. Now rated a tropical storm, it is moving northeast across the continent.

We are committed to helping our members recover from this historic storm. Park and recreation professionals are essential to crafting resilient communities, rebuilding resources damaged by weather, and creating climate-ready parks. Please visit this link to learn how to help.”

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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 people 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.