NRPA Research
The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) is a national organization advocating for parks throughout the United States. MPRA offers a variety of publications and research exploring best park practices, case studies, and data.
NPS Community Assistance
The National Park Service (NPS), through their Texas Rivers, Trails, and Conservation Assistance Program, assists local communities on a variety of projects including park development. Applications for projects are typically due in June each year. Check the NPS's website for updated information.
Social Explorer
Social Explorer is a free online mapping tool. Through this site local communities can map different socio-economic data for their city or county. This information may be useful in identifying locations for potential parks.
Trust for Public Land ParkServe
ParkServe is a free online mapping tool. This is a new tool from the Trust for Public Lands that looks at where parks are needed in different cities around the country. Individuals can type in their city and see where parks are most needed.
EPA Environmental and Demographic Mapping Tool
The Environmental and Demographic Mapping Tool is a free online mapping tool from the Environmental Protection Agency. Individuals can explore different environmental factors including locations of existing parks.
Trust for Public Land
Trust for Public Land is a national advocacy non-profit for parks, open space, and conservation. They have a variety of research papers, case study, and best practice examples
APA City Park Forum
The American Planning Association (APA) is a professional organization for planners throughout the United States. Their City Parks Forum provides research and best practices in developing and planning parks.
Arbor Day Foundation
The Arbor Day Foundation is an organization that advocates for planting trees throughout the United States. Local cities, counties, or social organizations can plan an Arbor Day event to encourage volunteers to help at local parks or apply to be a Tree City U.S.A participant.
Project for Public Spaces
Project for Public Spaces is an organization that focuses on design in public places including parks. Their website includes case studies and best practices on park design.
Congress for New Urbanism
Congress for New Urbanism is a national advocacy group exploring walkable places and design. Their site includes tools communities could use in gaining public support and input on designing public spaces.
Audubon Native Plants for Birds Database
The National Audubon Society provides a free tool individuals or local communities can use to find native plants that will attract local birds and potential birders to their parks.
Land Trust Alliance
The Land Trust Alliance supports local land trusts throughout the United States. Individuals can search for local land trusts in their area and learn about the benefits of conservation.
KaBOOM! Design Guides
KaBOOM! is the national non-profit dedicated to bringing balanced and active play into the daily lives of all kids, particularly those growing up in poverty in America.