JANUARY 2010

Aquatic facilities often operate at a loss and many times are subsidized by other money-making projects in a community. We examine some strategies for making a profit in aquatics.

Dog parks continue to grow in popularity across the United States, and many communities are looking to get in on the action. We help with some advice from those who've been there and done that.

When you want to expand your options beyond the summer swim season or the three-season sports, think about enclosing your facility. Four walls—even temporary ones—offer a way to keep the fun going all year.

Facility operators know that in addition to installing aquatic recreational elements they must improve efficiency. So how can you increase efficiency, handle the increased bather loads, and comply with stricter environmental laws, all at a time of budget and staff cuts? Technology.

What should communities do when the economy is sucking every last dollar? Organize to support parks!

While most people understand that sealed engineers drawings are necessary for big projects like bridges, skateparks and other smaller projects often slip through the cracks. We examine the importance of working with an engineer on such projects.

When leaders at the Corpus Christi Department of Parks and Recreation became concerned over high rates of diabetes in their community, they turned to a proven program to help get kids active and eating healthy.

In this new department, we offer a glimpse into a program that provides playgrounds for children around the world who've never had the chance to swing or slide before.