Collinsville, IL
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Sustainability with Collinsville Parks and Recreation
Join us in our efforts to create a sustainable world!
Our Mission:
As a division within the City of Collinsville, The Parks and Recreation Department is striving to help enhance the quality of life for present and future generations through sustainable practices.
According to research from the National Recreation and Parks Association, Parks are key community stakeholders when it comes to addressing the effects of climate change. From protecting water resources via green infrastructure practices to reducing urban heat island effect through citywide forest restoration - parks play a critical role in building climate resilient communities.
The purpose of a sustainability program is to conserve park resources with the needs of future generations in mind. The City of Collinsville Parks and Recreation Department strives to educate its staff and patrons of the benefits of using sustainable practices in parks and their homes in order to make the community, and therefore the world, a cleaner, safer place. Practicing sustainability helps to preserve resources for future generations.
Types of Sustainable programs that we currently offer:
- Sustainability Series (Classes)
- Composting Series (Classes)
- City Wide Spring Yard Sale
- Tree ID program
- Invasive Species Sweep
- Green Halloween Costume Swap
- Pumpkin and Christmas Tree Drop-offs
These are just some of the programs that we already provide! Our department continues to develop education-based programs about sustainability. Any programs developed will be included in our "Sustainability Series". Any program with the Sustainable Series tag, will have a sustainable aspect to it in some compacity.
Want to find more of our Sustainable programs that we offer throughout the year? Check out our Activity & Events Calendar and filter the tag "Sustainability Series" to join our programs!
What does CPRD do to be sustainable?
We strive to develop our sustainability efforts as we continue grow. Our department "Green Team" implemented goals and objectives for CPRD's daily and long-term impact with Collinsville recreation programs, Parks, and facilities.
CPRD Sustainability Objectives:
I. Stewardship of Natural Resources
The use of natural resources that is socially and culturally equitable, environmentally sustainable, and economically beneficial.
- Best Management Practices (BMP) of natural resources
- Tree ID
- Removal of Invasive Species creating greener grounds
- No/Low Mow Zones
- Developing and Creating Rain Gardens
- Stormwater Management and Clean Water Ways
- Implement a Biochar Plan to decrease waste
- “Green over Gray”
- Protection of air, water, soil, and wildlife
- Carbon Credit Program (Starting May 2023)
II. Incorporating Sustainability in our Operations
Rethinking and changing our impact in our activities, resources, and actions.
- Reduction and handling of Waste
- Purchase and use of environmentally safe products, and reusable resources
- Effective use of energy resources
- Decreasing our heat island
III. Educating and Connecting the Community with Nature
Providing recreation experiences and opportunities to connect with nature.
- “Sustainability Series” Program
- Developing “Green” programs
- Urban Ecology Class
- Providing educational resources to the public and posting informational signs at our parks
What can you do to help in our sustainability efforts?
- Join our classes and programs to learn or do your part to contribute!
- There are small everyday actions that you can do:
- Use reusable shopping bags and produce bags instead of plastic grocery bags.
- Use a refillable water bottle.
- Reuse containers.
- Choose eco-friendly products that are recyclable, bio-degradable, or compostable!