Jen M. Harvey, Chief of Philanthropy Astronauts can experience what’s known as the “overview effect,” or an overwhelming realization of the beauty, wonder and fragility of planet Earth. William Shatner, after traveling to space, found himself grieving for the planet and dedicated “Boldy Go,” his recent book, to his great-grandchild…

Stephanie Walton, Chief of Marketing & Communications and Lindsay Smith, Manager of Marketing & Public Relations, with contributions from Becca Zak, Interpretive Naturalist and Megan Shaeffer, Cultural Resource Coordinator Summit Metro Parks would not be the park district it is today without the vision, generosity and foresight of the larger-than-life…

Janean Kazimir, Interpretive Naturalist Snowy winter days are the perfect time to daydream of beautiful, beneficial native plants and design your next planting project! Whether creating a small pollinator garden or revamping an entire landscape, here are some helpful tips. Take notice of the sunlight, moisture and soil type of…

Lindsay Smith, Brand Manager For more than 100 years, park district staff have cared for the greenspace that makes up Summit Metro Parks, which today totals more than 15,000 acres in Summit County. While our work to conserve and sustainably manage land is in fact limited to the properties within…

This is the third in a series of posts about significant grant-funded improvements to protect the roads, trails and wildlife of a well-loved park. Read Part I and Part II. On February 7, 2023, the park district will resume work along Sand Run Parkway to protect infrastructure, enhance wildlife habitat…

Throughout history, Black people have led efforts in environmental justice and connecting people of color to nature, despite discrimination that has historically excluded them from public outdoor spaces and conversations regarding issues that disproportionately affect them. …

Victoria Putnam, Community Engagement Manager What do the Golden Girls have in common with Summit Metro Parks? Friends, of course! Friends of Metro Parks (FOMP) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, founded in 1991, that supports and encourages public enjoyment of Summit Metro Parks through membership, outreach and advocacy. History Friends groups…

Claire Merrick, Marketing and Public Relations Manager When we think of animal endangerment and extinction, we often think of exotic creatures in distant places. Less commonly considered are the rare fish found in our very own local waters, like the western banded killfish. These and other fish species have been…

Katelyn Freil, Marketing Specialist Is your New Year’s resolution to spend more time outside, learn something new or make new friends? Do all this and more with Summit Metro Parks! As you make your resolutions for the new year, consider adding volunteering with your local park district to the list…