Our Parks
Need Advocates
The City of Des Moines is beginning crucial discussions around substantial budget cuts coming in 2027, and our Parks and Recreation programs face significant challenges. Now is the time for our community to come together, make our voices heard, and protect the spaces and programs that make Des Moines a healthier, safer, and more connected place to live.
Why Our Parks Matter
Parks provide so much more than beautiful green space. They are the heart of our community!
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Individual Wellbeing: They support our physical and mental well-being.
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Community Connection: They create welcoming places for neighbors to meet and connect.
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Economic Impact: They offer recreation programs that strengthen families and lift up neighborhoods.
While rising costs and funding limits mean our city faces some tough budget choices, it also gives us a wonderful opportunity to show just how much these spaces mean to us.
How You Can Help Right Now!
We make the biggest impact when we speak up together. Here is how you can take action today:
Community Survey Results: During the month of July, we asked Des Moines Residents to fill out the city budget survey. Your feedback made it clear how deeply our community cares about the places where we play, gather, and explore. See the survey results below.
Stay Connected: We will be sharing more impactful ways to get involved in the coming weeks.
Follow Friends of Des Moines Parks so you never miss an update:
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Follow us on Instagram: @friendsofdmparks
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Connect with us on Facebook: @friendsofdmparks
Spread the Word: Let your friends and neighbors know that Every Park Needs an Advocate. Share this page and help us grow our community of park champions!
Contact Your City Council Member
City council members are your neighbors, and they genuinely want to hear how budget decisions will impact the people they represent! Dropping them a quick, friendly email or voicemail is one of the most powerful ways to ensure parks remain a priority.
Share Your Park Story
Your personal stories make the biggest impact. Try filling in one of the following sentence starters:
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"Because of Des Moines parks and programs, my family was able to..."
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"My favorite memory in a Des Moines park is..."
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"The park programs have impacted my physical and mental well-being by..."
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"Without our local parks and trails, I wouldn't have a safe space to..."
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"I love my neighborhood park because it's where I connect with..."
Park Users Tell Their Story
For 27 years, Des Moines parks have been a central part of one local advocate's daily life. From iconic spots like Gray’s Lake and Water Works to neighborhood favorites like Greenwood-Ashworth, Witmer, and nearby dog parks, Laura and her dogs rely on these safe, beautiful spaces every single day. Combining daily exercise with outdoor play has become a cherished routine, whether exploring paved river trails or spending time in off-leash areas. For Laura, every park across the city brings its own unique personality, turning everyday walks into meaningful quality time and proving just how vital our parks and trails are to the Des Moines community.