San Diego County Parks Department Earns National Recognition – Patch

San Diego County Parks Department Earns National Recognition  Patch

The department received a perfect score from the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies. SAN DIEGO, CA — The San Diego County Parks and Recreation Department earned the highest national recognition for park and recreation agencies in September when it received re-accreditation, county officials announced this weekend. The department received a perfect score from the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies, meeting all 154 national standards for strong management, high-quality service and community engagement, according to officials. CAPRA presented the award at the National Recreation and Park Association's Best of the Best Ceremony. "Our mission is to provide great parks, facilities and programs that improve quality of life while protecting the natural habitats and wildlife that make San Diego County special," Director of County Parks and Recreation Jason Hemmens said.

"This recognition reflects our team's hard work, dedication and passion. It shows our commitment to excellence, accountability and continuous improvement." The department operates 159 facilities, more than 60,000 acres of parkland and almost 400 miles of trails. The system includes neighborhood parks, sports fields, playgrounds, campgrounds, historic sites, fishing lakes, nature preserves, community centers, teen centers and a botanic garden. CAPRA commended San Diego County for its "outstanding preparation, organizational professionalism, and unwavering commitment to excellence in parks and recreation services." Reviewers identified the Parks Department