Protecting Parks & Open Spaces
Parks and Open Spaces Belong to All of Us.
Parks and open spaces deliver big benefits, providing opportunities for outdoor recreation, protecting plants and wildlife, showcasing scenic beauty, and fueling our sense of well-being—and boosting the economy. The role of open spaces can’t be taken for granted, and we must all do our part to protect them.
Advocating for Open Spaces
Parks and open spaces deliver benefits but also face threats from development, extractive activities, and other concerns.
Gateway Communities
Gateway communities serve as the “front doors” for our national parks and public lands.
Scenic Greenways
Scenic greenways connect people and places while also preserving and enhancing natural beauty.
Equity
Millions of Americans lack close and easy access to nearby parks and open spaces.
The Growing Benefits of Parks and Open Spaces
Parks and gardens enhance the scenic beauty of our surroundings while also delivering a host of physical, mental, and economic benefits. Spending time in nature delivers powerful psychological benefits. Homes and businesses located on tree-lined streets or with tree-filled communities generally enjoy higher property values. It’s up to all of us to protect the scenic qualities of our communities when they come under threat. As the Vermont Humanities Council notes:
When we degrade our surroundings, we also degrade our sense of who we are, where we come from, and the values we hold in common.
Case Study: Creating Parks in Pittsburgh
Learn how our Scenic Pittsburgh Chapter has been working to transform unwanted parcels of land into community greenspace.
Case Study: Creating Parks & Gardens in Greater Chicago
Learn how an abandoned gravel quarry has evolved into a popular attraction for watersports enthusiasts in Greater Chicago, and how a vacant lot now houses a community garden.