By Medicine Hat News Opinion on June 9, 2020.

While June signals the arrival of Parks and Recreation month, typically celebrated by engaging in community recreation opportunities, it goes without saying this year looks different. While it is always important to maintain proper safety procedures while recreating, there are extra measures to consider this year to keep individuals, families, and communities illness-free. Here are some ideas on how to keep active, healthy, and socially engaged throughout the summer while still maintaining the fight against COVID-19.

While public swimming areas will not be open this summer, there are alternate ways one can enjoy water-themed recreation. Floating or paddling down the South Saskatchewan river, or one of its tributaries, is a great way to enjoy the Medicine Hat areas gorgeous scenery. Remember to keep safe while on the water by checking weather and water conditions prior to heading out, and always wear a flotation device when in or near bodies of water.

Medicine Hat playgrounds will soon be open again, but it is encouraged to visit those closest to home, and re-think your visit if the park is busy. Disc golf courses at Gillwell, Leinweber, and Kiwanis Central Parks are great places to engage in friendly competition while keeping gatherings intimate.

The citys vast trail system provides the ability to get up close and personal with local natural areas. Medicine Hats unique grassland environment provides not only a gorgeous landscape, but is home to many plants and animals that thrive in prairie environments. The Citys environmental reserves, many of which have trail systems, are home to native grassland communities with significant ecological history, and value to the natural world. Enjoying and learning about these areas will in turn promote prairie conservation, helping maintain the ecosystems value as carbon reservoirs, and habitat for many animals and vegetation.

Whether in your backyard or a public space, remember that keeping connections alive between friends and nature will help the temporary two metre (six feet) separation seem smaller. Social distancing measures are simply another means of protection, not unlike wearing a helmet while biking, or a PFD while canoeing. Please visit http://www.medicinehat.ca to find more information on local public health updates, and remember to keep updated with changing Provincial guidelines and restrictions.

Keziah Lesko-Gosselin is a Parks Technician with the Parks and Recreation department, City of Medicine Hat.

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Parks and Rec: A different take on Parks and Recreation Month - Medicine Hat News