GREENFIELD — City of Greenfield has been awarded a nearly $700,000 grant from California State Parks to create and expand access to outdoor experiences for local youth and families.
The application, funded by State Parks, was shaped by Greenfield residents and reflected the needs and wants expressed by the community during three public input meetings. Online and in-person surveys were also conducted as part of the application process.
“Funding will allow the Greenfield Community Science Workshop (Greenfield CSW) and the Greenfield Recreation Department to become hubs for outdoor activities in local public spaces,” said Jose Sanchez, Greenfield CSW director.
Local activities that will be offered to the public include bike rides and exploration of local nature areas, outdoor art classes, paid youth outdoor leadership opportunities of various types and employment opportunities for high school and college students.
The $698,885 grant also provides funding for the creation of a Park Cleanup Task Force.
In addition, the funds will be used by the Greenfield CSW to organize trips to natural areas and outdoor activities. These include: hiking at Pinnacles National Park; camping, hiking and swimming in Arroyo Seco; kayaking in the Elkhorn Slough; whale watching in the Monterey Bay; summer and winter camping trips to the Sierra Nevada Mountains; snowboarding in the Sierra Nevada Mountains; and rafting in the South Fork of the American River.
“The City of Greenfield appreciates the support and trust front the California Department of Parks and Recreation and looks forward to working with youth and families to improve the health and wellness of our community and environment,” Sanchez said.
