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Summer is just around the corner, and we couldn’t be more excited! We're gearing up for another season full of activities, leagues, and programs designed for all ages and interests — from youth sports to adult leagues and lifelong wellness opportunities. Our mission is to create inclusive, fun, and active experiences that bring people together and help everyone enjoy the best of summer in our community. Whether you’re young or young at heart, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Registration is now open for many of our most popular summer offerings, and we encourage participants to sign up early — spots fill quickly! Youth Activities Play Park Play Park is a fun, engaging program designed to spark creativity, movement, and social interaction! Through a mix of crafts, games, and hands-on activities, children explore new ideas, stay active, and build friendships in a safe, playful environment. Track and Field Track and Field is a free program held at Dacotah Bank Track at Hanna Field, designed to teach athletes the fundamentals of track and field events. Kids will get hands-on experience with events like long jump and shot put - just register at the Track the night of! Youth Tennis Youth Tennis offers programs for all skill levels, from beginners to aspiring competitors. Our introductory program focuses on building skills, techniques, and game play in a supportive, fun environment, helping young players gain confidence on the court. For those looking to take their game further, there are additional opportunities through the Valley City Tennis Association (VCTA), including: 7–12 Tennis Singles League Junior Team Tennis Development Camp Orange Ball Junior Circuit Youth Softball/Baseball Youth Baseball & Softball helps kids learn the game, build skills, and develop teamwork. T‑ball introduces beginners to the field, while Boys Travel Baseball and Girls JO Fastpitch offer competitive play for advanced players. Speed & Agility Academy The Speed & Agility Academy, brought to you by Mobility Plus Rehabilitation of Valley City and led by Dr. Amanda Heck, is designed to help athletes become faster, stronger, and more well-rounded. This program focuses on proper form, mobility, and injury prevention to help participants reach their peak performance safely and effectively. Pottery Taught by Gail and Dennis Pederson with Pederson Pottery, this summer program features 6 fun-filled sessions of painting and pottery for ages 3 through adults. Explore your creativity, try new techniques, and enjoy hands-on art experiences perfect for all skill levels! Swimming Lessons Swimming Lessons focus on fostering safety, confidence, and lifelong skills in and around the water. Participants learn proper techniques, water safety practices, and stroke development through progressive levels, from Parent & Child classes up to Level 5/6. Our lessons are designed to help swimmers of all ages gain confidence, improve skills, and have fun in a safe environment. Adult Activities 4x4 Co-Ed Sand Volleyball Open to all skill levels, this fun summer league requires a minimum of 4 players per team. Play takes place on our three sand volleyball courts, offering plenty of space for games, friendly competition, and summer fun in the sun! Men's Softball Enjoy Monday nights out on the field! Minimum of 12 players per team and played on Monday nights, this league is associated with USA Softball of North Dakota. Red Ball Social: "Tennis on Tap" For 21+ and no experience needed! Play on a shorter court with smaller rackets and low-compression balls, all while enjoying beverages from Brockopp Brewing. Fun, social, and you don’t want to miss this! Summer is right around the corner, and there’s no better time to register for programs and leagues! Secure your spot today and get ready for a season full of fun and recreation. See the VCPR Summer Guide to see even more fun like rentals, events, and parks!

The “Future Recreation Leader” Scholarship The Future Recreation Leader Scholarship  will award $250 in 2026 to a graduating high school senior pursuing a degree in parks and recreation, health and wellness, sports management, community programming, or a related field. The goal is simple but meaningful: inspire and support the next generation of professionals who will bring health, connection, and opportunity to their future communities. Parks and recreation professionals play a powerful role in shaping quality of life. From youth sports and community events to wellness centers, trails, and green spaces, these careers create places where people gather, grow, and thrive. Through this scholarship, the VCPR Foundation hopes to encourage students who feel called to make that kind of impact. The scholarship is already fully funded for 2026 thanks to the incredible support shown during the Foundation’s recent Blind Date with a Book  fundraiser. The event featured 64 mystery books, each wrapped with only the genre listed on the outside — giving readers the excitement of discovering something new. Each “date” came complete with a bookmark, pen, and a free coffee coupon, making it the perfect cozy package. Thanks to the community’s enthusiasm, all 64 books were sold. The fundraiser raised enough money to completely cover the 2026 Future Recreation Leader Scholarship. The Application The Future Recreation Leader Scholarship application is due April 1 . Applications will be reviewed by the VCPR Foundation Board . Completed applications may be submitted by: Email:   foundation@vcparks.com Mail or Drop-Off: VCPR Foundation733 8th Ave SW Valley City, ND 58072 With one $250 scholarship available for 2026, the Foundation encourages eligible seniors with a passion for parks, recreation, health, and wellness to apply. Whether the recipient dreams of managing a park district, leading community wellness initiatives, coordinating youth programs, or designing vibrant public spaces, the VCPR Foundation is proud to stand behind their journey — and excited to see the impact they will make. See the application below:

Hidden Pond Trail offers a secluded-feeling escape right in the heart of Valley City. Though not yet open to the public, this trail is in the process of becoming more accessible for the community to enjoy with future upgrades like an updated path, benches, and the potential of other features like wildflowers and educational signage. As part of the effort to create a welcoming space for our community, we are actively removing invasive buckthorn and restoring the surrounding habitat, ensuring the trail remains healthy and vibrant for not only our community to enjoy, but also wildlife to thrive. We are excited to partner with Audubon Great Plains, the regional office of the National Audubon Society serving Nebraska, North Dakota, and South Dakota, to support meaningful conservation and habitat restoration efforts along Hidden Pond Trail. With the expertise of MNL, a trusted ecological restoration and vegetation management team with over 25 years of experience in the Upper Midwest, crews are actively removing invasive buckthorn to restore the trail’s natural balance. This project, funded through a grant program with Audubon Great Plains, uses targeted strategies such as cutting trees with a forestry mower and treating the stumps to reduce regrowth, ensuring long-term success in preserving the trail corridor. This project does more than clear invasive growth—it ensures the long-term health of the land. Buckthorn can quickly crowd out native plants, reduce habitat quality for wildlife, and change the character of the natural spaces our community enjoys. Through thoughtful removal, continued monitoring, and ongoing treatment, we are creating a long-term stewardship plan designed to help native grasses, trees, and wildflowers return and thrive. Credits: Minnesota Department of Agriculture About Buckthorn Common (European) buckthorn is an invasive shrub or small tree that can grow 6–20 feet tall. It has gray-brown bark, glossy dark green leaves, small yellow-green flowers in spring, and black berry-like fruits that appear in late summer. Originally from Europe and Asia, buckthorn was introduced to North America in the 1800s for hedges and shelterbelts but has since spread widely across the Midwest, including many counties in North Dakota. Where It Grows Buckthorn can thrive in many environments, including woodland edges, trails, ravines, fence rows, and roadsides. It tolerates a variety of soil types and light conditions, allowing it to spread easily in both open and partially shaded areas. Why It's A Problem Buckthorn grows quickly and spreads aggressively, producing large amounts of seed that can remain viable in the soil for several years. Because it leafs out early in the spring and holds its leaves late into fall, it creates dense shade that prevents native trees, grasses, and wildflowers from growing. Over time, this reduces biodiversity and can change the health of natural ecosystems. Removing Buckthorn By identifying different life stages of the invasive species, we are able to ensure the correct removal and treatment process for the best results, as shown by this diagram from Minnesota Department of Agriculture: Credits: Minnesota Department of Agriculture This buckthorn removal is just the first step in creating a healthy, thriving environment along Hidden Pond Trail. We’re excited to continue this work and look forward to the day the trail opens to the public—a space where families can take their dogs for walks, enjoy peaceful time in nature, and learn more about the wildlife that calls this area home.

If you stop by the Gaukler Family Wellness Center after an Aquafit or Prime Fit class, you’ll notice something right away: no one’s in a hurry to leave. AquaFit Fitness Class The workout wraps up, water bottles are emptied, and shoes are swapped out—but instead of heading straight for the door, people drift toward the lobby. Chairs get pulled a little closer together. Conversations pick back up where they left off last week. On Free Coffee Wednesday, the routine is especially familiar. Someone pours a cup, someone else brings a plate of treats, and before long the lobby feels less like a fitness facility and more like a neighborhood gathering place. Stories are shared. Laughter carries across the room. Plans are made for next time. Over the years, these post-class moments have turned into traditions. There are themed celebrations throughout the year, cookie exchanges during the holidays, and the occasional party “just because.” New faces are welcomed easily. Birthdays don’t go unnoticed. If someone misses a class, someone else usually notices. What started as a group of people showing up to move their bodies has quietly grown into a community. The fitness is important, of course—but it’s the consistency of seeing the same faces, week after week, that keeps people coming back. The classes provide a reason to show up; the connections give people a reason to stay. It’s a reminder that some of the best parts of recreation happen in the in-between moments. After the last stretch. After the workout is done. When everyone sits down together, coffee in hand, and enjoys being part of something that feels familiar, comfortable, and shared. And if you happen to walk through the lobby on one of those mornings, don’t be surprised if it feels like you’ve stumbled into something special—because you probably have.

Parks and recreation districts are often seen as places to play, exercise, or relax, but their impact goes far deeper. Beyond their amenities, these spaces serve as vital hubs for community connection, personal well-being, environmental stewardship, and economic growth. Community Bonding: Parks are the heart of our community, providing opportunities for people to connect, share experiences, and build relationships. Community events bring together people of all ages and backgrounds, fostering a sense of belonging and unity. Recreational leagues and fitness classes, such as those offered at the Gaukler Family Wellness Center, allow participants to form friendships while staying active. At the Gaukler Family Wellness Center, we’ve seen so many great friendships blossom as a result of attending fitness classes together. One standout example is a group of fitness class participants who routinely enjoy coffee together after their workouts, showcasing how parks and recreation build lasting connections that extend beyond the gym. Boosting Mental Health: The mental health benefits of parks and recreation are undeniable. Engaging in physical activity in a park, whether it’s a brisk walk, yoga session, or group exercise class, triggers the release of endorphins, the "feel-good" hormones that boost mood and alleviate stress. Research from the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) reveals that spending just 20 minutes in a park significantly reduces stress levels. Additionally, the calming effects of being surrounded by nature have been linked to decreased anxiety, improved focus, and an overall enhanced mood. Parks provide more than just recreation—they are sanctuaries for mental wellness. Physical Health: It’s well-known that parks encourage physical activity, but the extent of their impact is remarkable. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that individuals who have access to parks are 48% more likely to meet recommended levels of physical activity. Regular exercise helps prevent chronic illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity, contributing to longer, healthier lives. Parks make fitness accessible to everyone, regardless of income or age, offering free or low-cost ways to stay active, from trails and playgrounds to organized sports and fitness programs. Youth Development and Empowerment Parks and recreation programs play a critical role in youth development by offering constructive outlets for energy, creativity, and social interaction. From youth programs and summer camps to team sports and arts initiatives, parks and recreation helps nurture a child's potential by promoting teamwork, leadership, and discipline. These programs teach essential life skills such as communication, collaboration, and conflict resolution. Environmental and Educational Benefits: Parks provide not only recreational spaces but also serve as vital tools for environmental preservation and education. They give both adults and children opportunities to engage with and learn about their local environment, offering hands-on learning experiences that enrich classroom knowledge. For instance, students can explore trails, collect leaves, observe wildlife, or even plant trees—all activities that promote curiosity and a lifelong connection to the environment. Parks also play an essential role in conserving and protecting natural habitats. By preserving green spaces, parks provide crucial shelter and resources for birds, insects, and other wildlife, maintaining biodiversity in urban and rural areas. These efforts not only enhance the beauty of parks but also ensure that natural resources are preserved for future generations to enjoy. Partnerships: Community partnerships play a pivotal role in the success of local events and initiatives, helping our community thrive in many ways. Take the BBQ Cookoff, for example, where 13 local businesses came together to sponsor and participate, creating a fun and delicious competition that brought the community together. Similarly, our annual Trunk or Treat event wouldn't be possible without the involvement of 17 businesses and organizations, who generously donate time, resources, and support, making it a safe, enjoyable experience for families. These events offer a platform for businesses to connect directly with community members, creating lasting connections that benefit both businesses and the community and driving support for local ventures. These partnerships not only enhance events but also enable us to give back to the community through scholarships, funding, and valuable services. By working with local businesses and organizations, we are able to offer more opportunities for people to connect, have fun, and grow, making Valley City a stronger, more vibrant place for everyone. Economic Benefits: Beyond health and community benefits, parks and recreation also have a significant economic impact. Homes near parks see a boost in property values, with studies showing an average increase of 8-20%. Additionally, parks and events attract tourists, supporting local businesses and driving economic growth. The NRPA reports that the nation's local park and recreation agencies generate $140 billion in economic activity annually and support nearly 1 million jobs. While parks and recreation may seem like simple amenities, their hidden benefits make them an invaluable resource for individuals and communities alike. From fostering friendships and improving mental health to promoting physical activity and offering environmental and educational enrichment, parks have a profound impact on our quality of life. The next time you visit a park or attend a community event, remember that you’re not just enjoying the moment—you’re contributing to a healthier, happier, and more connected Valley City.

New year, new goals—and then… real life. Setting fitness resolutions is easy. Following through? That’s where the magic (and a little strategy) comes in. Here are some fun, realistic ways to keep your momentum going all year long: 1. Start Small (Seriously Small) You don’t need a total lifestyle overhaul on January 1. Start with something doable—like 10 minutes of movement a day—and build from there. It can be as simple as stretching during breaks, taking a quick walk around the office, walking the dog after work, or standing while you work. These small, everyday choices add up faster than you think and help you build momentum without burning out. 2. Get Clear With Your Goals “Get fit” sounds great, but it’s hard to measure. Instead, set goals you can clearly track—like working out three times a week or training for a 5K by June. Clear goals make it easier to see your progress, stay motivated, and celebrate your wins along the way. 3. Put It on the Calendar Treat workouts like important meetings (because they are). Schedule them, set reminders, and show up for yourself like you would for anyone else. 4. Track the Wins Use an app, a notebook, or even a good old-fashioned wall calendar. Watching your streak grow is surprisingly motivating—and super satisfying. 5. Don’t Go It Alone Grab a workout buddy, sign up for a fitness class, or join a fitness group. A little accountability goes a long way—and makes it more fun. Click HERE for our fitness schedule. All skill and fitness levels are welcome - and our instructors are amazing and will help with any questions you may have! 6. Do What You Enjoy If you hate running, don’t run—and don’t feel guilty about it. The best workout is the one you’ll actually show up for. Dance, swim, lift, hike, stretch, try a group class, or just move in a way that makes you feel good. When fitness feels fun instead of forced, it stops being a chore and starts becoming part of your routine. Enjoyment builds consistency, and consistency is what leads to real results. If you’re smiling (or at least not dreading it), you’re doing it right. 7. Expect a Few Off Days Miss a workout? It happens—to everyone. Busy schedules, low-energy days, and unexpected curveballs are all part of real life. What matters most isn’t perfection, but your ability to reset and keep going. One missed day doesn’t undo your progress, and it definitely doesn’t mean you’ve failed. Give yourself grace, adjust when needed, and jump back in when you can. Consistency over time—not perfection—is what leads to lasting results. 8. Celebrate Like You Mean It Hit a milestone? Treat yourself! Celebrate your wins with something that feels special—new workout gear, a relaxing massage, or a fun outing with friends. Rewards give you something to look forward to and help keep motivation high, while also reminding you just how far you’ve come. You’ve earned it—enjoy the victory and keep the momentum going. Your fitness journey is just that— yours . Find what works for you, celebrate the wins (big and small), and don’t sweat the off days. Stick with it, have fun along the way, and you’ll be surprised how far you can go! Looking at getting a Gaukler Family Wellness Center Membership but have questions? Call us at 701-845-3294 or stop in - we can even give you a facility tour! See membership information here: https://www.vcparks.com/memberships See fitness classes here: https://www.vcparks.com/fitness-schedule

https://www.considerate-consumer.com/pollinators You may not notice them at first—a bee moving from flower to flower, a butterfly resting briefly on a bloom, a bird darting through the trees—but pollinators play a powerful role in keeping our parks healthy, vibrant, and full of life. Pollinators include bees, butterflies, moths, birds, beetles, and even bats. These small but mighty creatures help plants reproduce by transferring pollen, making it possible for flowers, trees, and grasses to grow and thrive. Without pollinators, many of the plants that make our parks beautiful—and functional—would struggle to survive Nearly three-quarters of flowering plants rely on pollinators, including many trees and shrubs that provide shade, erosion control, and wildlife habitat. Why Pollinators Matter in Our Parks Pollinators are essential to healthy park ecosystems. In parks, pollinators help: Support plant diversity , creating landscapes that are more resilient and visually appealing Strengthen food webs , supporting birds and other wildlife Improve soil and water health  by sustaining native vegetation Enhance visitor experiences , adding color, movement, and seasonal interest Simply put, when pollinators thrive, parks thrive. Parks as Pollinator Havens Community parks can be surprisingly important refuges for pollinators. As natural spaces disappear in favor of development, parks provide vital pockets of habitat—especially when they include native plants, flowering trees, and naturalized areas. Pollinators don’t need large wilderness areas to survive. A pollinator-friendly park might include: Native wildflowers and grasses Flowering trees and shrubs that bloom at different times of the year Undisturbed areas where insects can nest or overwinter Reduced pesticide use and thoughtful landscape management Even small changes can make a big difference. How You Can Help Pollinators in Our Parks Visitors play an important role, too. Simple actions can help protect pollinators and their habitats: Stay on trails to protect flowering plants Avoid disturbing bees and butterflies—watch and enjoy from a distance Learn about native plants and pollinators Support pollinator-friendly practices at home By being mindful park users, everyone can help create spaces where pollinators—and people—can flourish.

The Sheyenne River is on its way to becoming North Dakota’s first and only nationally designated water trail—a milestone that brings pride and excitement to Valley City. This designation means more opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and enjoying the natural beauty of our region. With new landings and launches, including an ADA-accessible launch at Chautauqua Park, the river is more inviting than ever. But with increased access comes increased responsibility. As more people enjoy the Sheyenne River, it’s crucial that we all do our part to keep the river clean and healthy for all to enjoy. Did you know... A 2020 national study counted nearly 26 billion pieces of litter along U.S. waterways—more than on roadways—and plastics make up over one-third of debris. Why Clean Water Matters The Sheyenne River stretches nearly 590 miles, with the water trail being 199 miles long, providing habitat for dozens of fish species, countless birds, and native plants. It’s not just a recreational resource—it’s an ecological lifeline. Unfortunately, pollutants like plastic waste, discarded fishing line, and chemical runoff can harm wildlife and degrade water quality. Protecting this river ensures safe recreation, thriving ecosystems, and a stronger local economy. Tips for a Cleaner River Pack It In, Pack It Out Take all trash home—including food wrappers, cans, and fishing line. Choose Reusable Gear Bring refillable water bottles and reusable containers. Secure Your Belongings Tie down items in your kayak or canoe to prevent accidental loss. Use Eco-Friendly Products Opt for biodegradable sunscreen and bug spray. Respect Wildlife Observe from a distance—don’t feed animals or disturb habitats. Join a Cleanup Event Watch for volunteer clean up days along the river. Report Issues If you see illegal dumping or hazards, notify local authorities. The Sheyenne is giving us something incredible: a chance to explore, to connect, to belong. As more people discover its bends and quiet stretches, let’s remember that its health depends on us and we all can do our part to keep it clean. Read more about water trails here: https://www.nps.gov/subjects/nationaltrailssystem/national-water-trails-system.htm

Valley City’s parks are defined by their sweeping canopies, shaded paths, and the rich sense of place created by generations of trees. As stewards of this landscape, Valley City Parks and Recreation is committed to protecting the health, beauty, and long-term sustainability of our urban forest. And one of the greatest threats facing communities across the Midwest—and now here in North Dakota—is the emerald ash borer (EAB). Did you know, once infested by emerald ash borer, an ash tree can die in as little as two years? What is the Emerald Ash Borer? The emerald ash borer is a small, metallic green beetle native to Asia. While tiny in size, it causes massive damage. After the adult beetle lays eggs on ash trees, the hatched larvae burrow beneath the bark and feed on the tree’s vascular system—the tissue responsible for transporting water and nutrients. This feeding disrupts the tree’s ability to survive, often leading to death within just a few years. EAB spread rapidly across the United States and has already killed tens of millions of ash trees nationwide. Because ash trees make up a significant portion of Valley City’s tree canopy, the arrival of EAB poses a very real and urgent concern for the future of our parks. How EAB Threatens Our Tree Canopy: Chautauqua Park Ash Tree Population City Park Ash Tree Population Emerald ash borer infestations are especially harmful because: Damage happens from the inside out , making early detection difficult. All species of ash trees are susceptible , regardless of age or health. Infestations spread quickly , often before symptoms are visible. Tree mortality rates approach 100% without intervention . For a community like ours—where mature ash trees shape many of our parks, walking paths, and river corridors—the risk of widespread loss is significant. Losing these trees would affect everything from shade and stormwater control to wildlife habitat and the overall experience of visiting our parks. Mitigation, Protection, and Renewal To safeguard our urban forest, Valley City Parks and Recreation is implementing a proactive, multi-layered plan focused on mitigating risk, protecting high-value trees, and strengthening the long-term resilience of our canopy. 1. Strategic Removal and Replacement We are currently identifying and removing ash trees that are unhealthy, weak, or too young to preserve. This allows us to get ahead of potential infestations while avoiding a sudden wave of mass tree loss later. With the help of grants, ash trees removed in our parks are to be replaced at a 1:1 ratio with a diverse mix of species including elm, poplar, and oak. Our priority is building a healthier, more resilient canopy—one that isn’t dependent on a single type of tree and can better withstand future pests, diseases, and climate challenges. 2. Quantum Injector Treatment Not all trees are easily replaced—especially the large, mature ash trees that define many of our park spaces. These trees contribute decades of growth, shade, habitat, and history. We are researching the option to use a quantum injector system—a specialized treatment method designed to deliver protective compounds directly into a tree’s vascular system. The goal would be to strengthen these high-value ash trees and improve their chances of surviving potential emerald ash borer infestations. We recognize that our tree canopy is one of the most beautiful and beloved features of our park system. It’s part of what makes Valley City special as a Tree City—and it’s our responsibility to care for it with both urgency and intention. By removing at-risk ash trees now, replanting with a diverse selection of species, and actively protecting our biggest trees, we’re working to preserve the green spaces our community cherishes. This work ensures that today’s parks will continue to grow, thrive, and inspire future generations. See our community's urban forest here: https://ndcitytrees.org/NorthDakota/ Learn more about Emerald Ash Borer here: https://www.ndda.nd.gov/eab

Our mission has always been rooted in creating opportunities for all—and that includes fostering a love of recreation in our community’s youth. When young people learn to enjoy sports, the outdoors, and movement, they don’t just build skills for today—they develop healthy habits and passions that last a lifetime. Our Youth Programs: A Place for Everyone to Play VCPR offers a wide range of youth programs designed to meet kids where they’re at—whether they’re trying a sport for the very first time or looking to grow, compete, and challenge themselves. Each program is grounded in fun, skill-building, teamwork, and confidence. Our lineup includes: Baseball & Softball Soccer Flag Football Tennis Track & Field Swimming Lessons Youth Camps and seasonal activities Removing Barriers With Our Scholarship Program We believe that no child should ever miss out on the benefits of recreation because of financial limitations. That’s why VCPR Foundation offers a Scholarship Program designed to assist families in need with program fees. This initiative ensures that every child—regardless of financial circumstances—can participate, grow, and thrive in the activities they love. By removing financial barriers, we’re helping create an inclusive community where all youth have the chance to experience the joy, confidence, and belonging that recreation brings. Beyond Our Own Programs While we take pride in the programs we offer, we also know Valley City is home to many other incredible organizations working hard to give kids opportunities to stay active, develop skills, and build community. We’re grateful for the many dedicated coaches, volunteers, and leaders who offer programs outside of VCPR. Across the city, youth have access to activities such as: Hockey Gymnastics Figure Skating Bowling Archery Swimming Basketball Volleyball Special Olympics Thunder Football Taekwondo And countless clubs, leagues, and organizations promoting active, healthy lifestyles These groups operate independently from VCPR, yet they share the same passion we do: helping young people grow through recreation. Together, we create a network of opportunities where every child can find something they enjoy. A Community Full of Opportunities Valley City is incredibly fortunate to have such a rich variety of recreation options for youth. Whether it’s a child’s first time picking up a bat, going down the slide at City Park, learning to skate, or joining a local club, every moment of activity makes a difference. At VCPR, we are passionate about making sure our youth can experience the power of parks and recreation—building confidence, friendships, and healthy habits along the way. By working alongside families, coaches, schools, and community organizations, we’re helping shape a future where every child can discover what it means to love being active.

Valley City’s parks are more than just green spaces — they’re places to laugh, play, relax, and enjoy nature with friends and family. From picnics by the river to games on the playground, these spaces are where memories happen. And here’s the secret to keeping them awesome: a little effort from everyone goes a long way! Did you know, only 40% of park visitors said they take their trash with them when leaving a park (according to a survey by the National Parks Conservation Association). Trash Isn’t Just Ugly — It’s Dangerous A candy wrapper here or a soda can there might not seem like a big deal… until it ends up in the river or gets eaten by a curious animal. Wildlife can get hurt by litter, plants can struggle to grow, and our parks can lose that special sparkle we all love. Even small items like straws or snack bags can have big consequences. How You Can Make a Difference Good news: keeping our parks clean is easier than you think. Here’s how to be a park hero : Bin it or take it:  If there’s a trash or recycling bin, use it. If not, take it with you. Clean as you go:  Enjoyed a snack? Pick up your wrappers. Walking the dog? Grab that stray plastic bag. Help a friend:  See a piece of litter on the ground? Pick it up — bonus points for doing it with a smile! Spread the word:  Kids, neighbors, and friends notice good habits — your actions inspire them too. Why It’s Worth It A clean park isn’t just prettier — it’s safer for animals, healthier for plants, and more fun for everyone. Every bottle you recycle, every wrapper you toss, and every stray piece of trash you pick up adds up to a big difference. Let's work together to keep our parks clean! 🌱