Now more than ever, we’ve begun to understand what makes up the fundamentals of an inclusive playspace. We know they require accessible components with sensory-rich play elements, plenty of social opportunities, and levels of play for all to thrive. As we continue

Growing evidence indicates that dense organic matter materials can increase turfgrass field performance. In this session, Midwest Grows Green natural lawn care (NLC) technical assistance program (TAP) team members Ryan Anderson and Vytas Pabedinskas cover soil health principles and how to apply

This session will provide an overview of community mosquito control and highlight opportunities for park districts to become involved in protecting public health at parks and facilities. Mosquito biology, disease vectors, larval and adult mosquito control methods, green mosquito control products, and

In recent years, destination play has driven foot traffic to large and small communities alike throughout the United States. Destination play spaces, such as Morton Arboretum Children’s Garden, Bellaboos Imagination Garden, 95th Street Community Plaza, and Bison’s Bluff, have been catalysts for

Many municipalities are faced with the sobering reality regarding the development and operational costs of renovating and maintaining multiple municipal pools. A current trend in the market for municipalities and park districts with multiple pools is to create a destination splash park.

Risky play in the outdoors benefits children and adults across age ranges and abilities (Brussoni et al., 2012, 2105; Sandseter & Kennair, 2011). Thrilling play that involves risk assessment and risk-taking can help people to feel physically and emotionally empowered. In this

Learn how to properly manage your parking lots and sidewalks from a pavement engineer with over 30 years of experience. This presentation will cover common problems and proper maintenance methods, including seal coating, overlays, repairs, and pavement reclaiming and provides an excellent

Illinois nature preserves are more than just open spaces in the park system. These are special places protected from development in perpetuity by state law because of their irreplaceable natural features and biodiversity. In the age of invasive species and climate change,

Park district operations are faced with a sizable amount of asphalt surface to keep in working order, spread much further around the town than most municipal districts, second only to the town’s public works department. Forewarned is forearmed. Understanding the nature of

The diversity and deep roots of native plants make them ideal for converting low-use or problem areas to beautiful native plantings. Native plants provide season-long changes in beautiful flower color, can be lower cost to maintain than turf, and are used to