FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – The City of Fayetteville was honored this week by the Arkansas Recreation and Parks Association (ARPA), which named Outdoor Fayetteville its 2023 Natural Resources Program of the Year.
Outdoor Fayetteville is an experiential-based program offered through the City’s Parks, Natural Resources, and Cultural Affairs Department. It is designed to offer outdoor recreation opportunities for individuals and families who may not have the equipment or experience needed to enjoy the outdoors. The City provides the equipment, instruction, and opportunity to learn a new hobby and explore some of Fayetteville’s most beautiful natural scenery.
Representatives of the department were on hand at the Association’s Annual Conference in Jonesboro to receive the award.
“Outdoor Fayetteville is a tremendous asset to the Fayetteville community,” said Alison Jumper, director of Parks, Natural Resources, and Cultural Affairs. “Outdoor recreation provides numerous benefits to physical, mental and emotional health.”
Outdoor Fayetteville offers multiple programs throughout the year to people of all ages and experiences. Since 2021, the program has hosted more than 900 individuals in a comforting environment for all to learn and grow their skills.
Classes include paddling, mountain biking, archery, fishing, field navigation, and backcountry cooking clinics.
“Gaining lifelong skills through experiential learning is a great way to build confidence, meet new people, and improve existing relationships,” Jumper said. “This family-focused program provides an outlet to build stronger relationships and connect with the outdoors, while also building new skills under the guidance of experienced professionals.”
To learn more about Outdoor Fayetteville, go to: https://www.fayetteville-ar.gov/3989/Outdoor-Fayetteville.
