Agrilife Extension Resources

Many Americans have an acute sense of time scarcity-the feeling that they lack enough time to do all they want to do. Park and recreation managers have been slow to address time scarcity. This is unfortunate because the survival of their organizations may well depend on their being regarded as a wise use of constituents’ […]

Recreation research shows that there are marked inequalities among population groups in terms of their participation in different leisure activities and their use of the local, regional and national park and recreation services. Those who do not visit parks often tend to be female, older, members, of a minority group, and have lower levels of […]

Communities that are designed thoughtfully for walking increase the likelihood that residents will exercise more and become healthier. One of the easiest ways for most people to exercise more is by walking. This factsheet discusses walking as a leisure activity and a way to become healthier, as well as features that make walking routes attractive […]

Many city officials may not be aware of the underutilized benefits of parkland dedication ordinances. This publication expands on Parkland Dedication Ordinances in Texas: A Missed Opportunity and discusses best practices for establishing or revising parkland dedication ordinances. (108 pages)

Many local park directors and community leaders struggle with low attendance and participation at events inviting citizen input. This publication describes three activities to give voice to more citizens interested in a topic, issue, or decision. (6 pages)

Researchers have found that public parks can benefit citizens by providing opportunities for social interaction, fostering an appreciation for diversity, and increasing community involvement and pride. This publication details some of the social benefits that parks can provide. (2 Pages)

Parks and park-like environments can support and encourage recreational and utilitarian activities, helping people increase their physical activity every day. This publication examines what communities need to understand about environmental factors that foster exercise in order to assess whether the design and location of their parks support physical activity. (2 Pages)

Rural areas in Texas face changes such as rapid growth, urban encroachment, job losses, outward migration, and lack of transportation options. This publication outlines the steps rural leaders and residents can use for adopting a basic planning process to address the problems and needs of their community. (2 Pages)

People need parks. Great urban parks are places where communities come together, people interact, and social capital develops. Learn the characteristics of great urban parks and how they are created. (3 pages)