Washington County has won a 2024 Achievement Award for adding diversity to its parks and recreation services.

Since 1970 NACo (National Association of Counties) Achievement Awards have recognized outstanding county government programs and services in 18 categories covering county responsibilities including arts, culture and historic preservation, parks and recreation, children and youth, and community and economic development.

Washington County’s award recognizes its BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) connect 2024 program series. Pilot programs involved BIPOC people in small groups of 10-15 along with BIPOC guides, to explore the county parks through activities including hikes, snowshoeing, and kayaking.

One Tuesday a month, the BIPOC program removes financial barriers by offering free entry and parking to all residents.

Elena Schewe, parks equity coordinator for Washington County, explains how this program emerged. “Before the planning stages of this program series, our team researched visitor trends and public feedback around the Washington County parks system. We found that communities of color are underrepresented in the parks and recreation world due to historical challenges regarding access or culture,” Schewe said. “This can mean where parks are developed, economic strain to access a park, and prejudice out on the trails. We believe everyone deserves a space outside where they can practice wellness and recreate safely, so this program series is working to adjust this culture and bring people into our parks.”

Experience an inclusive event this weekend. Washington County Parks and Recreation Services is offering a Night Hike in the Lake Elmo Park Reserve on Saturday, October 12, at 6 p.m.