Staff Article
Outdoor exploration for all abilities
Updated March 13, 2025
Each individual experiences the outside world differently and brings a unique perspective on how to enjoy the natural world – a sentiment local mom and MetroParks human resources and volunteer manager Jenny Hymans often reminds those around her. What started with a tiny speck of light on an ultrasound turned into a long journey for […]
Stay safe and enjoy the outdoors this winter
Updated January 10, 2025
Winter weather is in full effect, with snow falling and temperatures below freezing. Wildlife have prepared for the coldest season of the year by growing thick coats of fur and storing food – and you should be prepared, too. Five Rivers MetroParks’ Chief of Public Safety Mark Hess offers several tips to help you stay […]
Meet MetroParks’ new chief of operations
Published April 10, 2024
If you’ve attended a Five Rivers MetroParks event or frequented your favorite park, you may recognize Chris Pion, MetroParks’ new chief of operations! For nearly 28 years, Chris has been on the MetroParks team in many capacities, most recently as director of parks. Pion started his MetroParks journey in 1996 as a seasonal park technician […]
Women’s History Month – Meet the Women of Five Rivers MetroParks
Updated March 28, 2024
In honor of Women’s History Month, we profile some of Five Rivers MetroParks’ female employees who keep your parks beautiful, safe and open year-round. Amy Kennedy has worked for MetroParks for almost 10 years, currently as lead horticulture technician at RiverScape MetroPark. Her job is to train all new horticulture staff and take care […]
Supporting Five Rivers MetroParks is a family affair for the Josephs
Published March 20, 2024
Five Rivers MetroParks has always been near and dear to the hearts of longtime Oregon District residents Katie and Russ Joseph. When their 15-year-old son, Eli, was born it became a family affair. “One of our greatest memories was our first Bike to Work Day pancake breakfast with Eli at RiverScape MetroPark. He must have […]
Manage refrigerants to fight climate change, protect your family’s health and save money
Published August 31, 2023
by Guest Blogger: MetroParks Sustainability Manager Tim Pritchard Project Drawdown lists refrigerant management among the most impactful actions for mitigating climate change. This very notion may be confusing to some, as the connection between refrigerants and greenhouse gases is not as commonly discussed as much as vehicle or facility emissions. Additionally, refrigerants are somewhat easy […]
The rewards of a local, diverse, climate-conscious diet
Published July 26, 2023
Guest blogger: MetroParks Sustainability Manager, Tim Pritchard Better food choices can help curb climate change and embracing this notion can lead to rewarding lifestyle changes and personal wellness. Climate change is a heavy, urgent and overwhelming topic, but it is important that we share knowledge and empowerment focused on the betterment of our collective environment […]
DIY your way to a warmer winter at home
Published January 26, 2023
Guest blogger: Sustainability Manager Tim Pritchard The Miami Valley has seen a relatively mild winter in 2022-2023, although the cold snap that occurred around the holidays brought extreme cold temperatures and windchill, which was for many, a harsh reminder of how quickly energy bills can spike and living/working conditions can deteriorate during such weather events. […]
Five Rivers MetroParks’ Chief Executive Officer Announces 2023 Retirement
Updated December 2, 2022
Agency hired executive search firm to conduct nationwide search for new leader Five Rivers MetroParks Chief Executive Officer Rebecca Benná announced today she plans to retire from her position in spring 2023. Benná has led the organization since March 2011 and has worked in public service for over 40 years. The Board of Park Commissioners […]
