CONSERVATION Federal agencies have frameworks, programs and technical resources that can inform your conservation work in local parks. Conservation-Focused Federal Frameworks and Technical Resources By Ayanna Williams, MSW E very park and recreation agency has a unique set of internal characteristics and external factors that influence its response to climate change. Some agencies engage in sustainability planning as part of a citywide or even statewide mandate. Other agencies lead conservation efforts in their communities. Some agencies work in communities that support - or even demand - that park departments engage in creating climate-ready parks. Others face the risk of community or political backlash for creating sustainability initiatives. In addition, every agency has a unique set of environmental factors that influence its conservation focus. Tree planting may be the most helpful strategy in one area; however, it may drain valuable water resources from another. A green infrastructure system that manages stormwater may greatly benefit one area but might eliminate essential natural habitats in another. Federal Frameworks and Resources There are many ways to establish a foundational understanding of the context in which you will engage in park-based conservation initiatives. Federal agencies have frameworks, programs and technical resources that can inform your conservation work and can inspire and ignite conversations within your team or across departments, and with the 34 Parks & Recreation | O CTOBER 2 0 2 4 | PARK S ANDRECRE AT ION . OR G public and community leaders. Many of these resources are designed to be accessible to the general public and used by professionals. This helps to create a shared vocabulary and points of reference. There are frameworks that can help you effectively communicate what you see in your community but might struggle to put into words, including both the issue and possible solutions. Case studies can provide examples of peer communities that are tackling similar issues. Sometimes, the solutions are innovative and can inspire great transformation. There are also common-sense solutions that can be implemented without great fanfare and might already be part of your annual workplan or long-term vision. Following are some resources