Week Four: A Kinship With the Land

Promoting Nature Connectedness Through Harmony With the Environment

Decatur’s Parks and Recreation agency is committed to environmental protection through green infrastructure, public land maintenance, and wildlife habitat preservation. Our parks not only connect people to nature but also create environmental stewards who protect our land, water, trees, and wildlife.

Parks in Decatur help cool the city with tree canopies, clean water, reduce flooding, and improve air quality. Our city has 196.3 acres of parkland and greenspace, serving as vibrant ecosystems that promote physical well-being, environmental stewardship, and a strong sense of community.

Parks act as natural sponges, soaking up runoff during rain events to prevent flooding and property damage. They also reduce water usage by recycling and storing water for dry periods. Decatur’s parks are part of the 11 million acres of open space managed by local park agencies across the U.S., focusing on strategies that protect natural habitats and manage stormwater. Climate-ready parks are cost-effective and sustainable environmental solutions.

Common sustainability actions include planting trees, using native and climate-adaptable plants, and updating buildings and other park infrastructure. Decatur has received a $750,000 community project funding grant from Rep. Nikema Williams (GA-5) for solar panels at the Decatur Recreation Center, with installation planned for the Fall.

Join our walking tours this week to see how Decatur implements these sustainability actions. Learn about the history, sustainability efforts, and conservation at three iconic locations:

Walking Tours Schedule:

Date: July 23
Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Decatur Cemetery, 229 Bell Street, Decatur 30030
Meet at the cemetery office

Description: Guided hike through the natural area of the cemetery, including a pond, stream, and waterfall. Learn about significant trees, the orchard, and the naturalized creek.

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Date: July 24
Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Legacy Park, 500 South Columbia Drive, Decatur 30030
Meet at the main front building (white with columns)

Description: Guided hike through the conservation area to learn about the beavers at Legacy. Wear rain boots, waders, or hiking boots for off-trail exploration.

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Date: July 26
Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Hawk Hollow, 2304 First Avenue, Atlanta 30317

Description: See how overgrown properties in Atlanta and Decatur have been transformed into beautiful spaces with native plants and wildlife, including deer, turtles, coyotes, and hawks.

Join us in celebrating the fourth week of Parks and Recreation Month, and discover how Decatur is building a greener, more sustainable community.