Executive Director’s letter to the community

Happy New Year! Our accomplishments in 2023 are a testament to the spirit and mission of our organization and the un-wavering dedication of our board, staff, partners, volunteers and the community. Against the backdrop of ongoing global challenges, we have continued to move Summit County toward a more sustainable and harmonious future.

Restored park land at the Valley View Area of Cascade Valley Metro Park. Photo by Rob Vaughn.

Conservation work is a profoundly personal undertaking. It is an endeavor that weaves the aspirations of groups and individuals with the broader goals of community and ecological renewal. When the Valley View Area was featured internationally on CNN’s Call to Earth, it allowed millions of people to learn about our efforts to restore a former golf course to a park rich in history, natural resources and recreational opportunity. We celebrated this along with many other accomplishments, including the completed restoration of Sand Run stream, implementing the Wild Back Yards program and installing two new trails.

Sand Run Stream after restoration work in 2023. Photo courtesy of Davey Resources.

With the new year comes more potential to make a difference as we continue to enhance our parks, protect our natural treasures and provide enriching experiences and connections to nature for all. I am grateful for the unyielding support and commitment of our community, which has been pivotal in shaping Summit Metro Parks into a place where nature flourishes and memories are made.

Here’s to a new year filled with boundless possibilities and the promise of a thriving park system for all to enjoy.


For more stories like this, check out Green Islands magazine, a bi-monthly publication from Summit Metro Parks. Summit County residents can sign up to receive the publication at home free of charge.