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Commissioners back ParksRx ‘OutdoorsRx’ program to expand outdoor health and education
Summary
Skagit County commissioners unanimously approved a proclamation supporting a ParksRx program that aims to connect residents — especially youth and marginalised groups — to outdoor activities through partnerships with the hospital district, land trusts and nonprofit providers.
The Skagit County Board of Commissioners on Tuesday unanimously approved a proclamation supporting the creation and implementation of a ParksRx program (branded in presentations as OutdoorsRx or “Veil to Wellness”). The vote, 3–0, endorses a county effort to coordinate partners that will prescribe and promote outdoor activities for health and educational benefits.
Why it matters: County parks staff, public-health partners and nonprofit leaders said ParksRx will leverage existing programs to reduce anxiety, improve physical health and build environmental stewardship by making outdoor experiences more accessible. Brian Adams, director of Skagit County Parks and Recreation, told the board the initiative is part of the county’s strategic plan and will rely on a steering committee of public and nonprofit partners.
Program details: United General Hospital District 304 — which already runs a “Skagit NatureRx” walk program and a summer “Trek for Treasures” initiative — described in the meeting how hospital and public‑health resources can support free or low‑cost outdoor activities, transportation, and programming. The county’s plan includes outdoor classrooms, youth field trips and a ParkScription/ParksRx model that health providers and community organizations can use to connect residents to trails, parks and habitat areas.
Partners and funding: Presenters identified multiple partners already engaged: United General Hospital District 304, Skagit Land Trust, Skagit Fisheries Enhancement Group, 4‑H/FFA, Anacortes Community Forest Lands and community nonprofits such as Vamos Outdoors Project. Commissioners directed staff to convene an advisory/steering committee beginning in June and to pursue available grants such as the Recreation and Conservation Office’s No Child Left Inside program.
Commission action: The commissioners read and signed a proclamation “supporting the creation and implementation of the ParksRx program” and voted 3–0 to adopt it. Presenters described the action as a county‑level endorsement that will support future grant applications and collaborative programming rather than a line‑item appropriation.
Public comments and follow‑up: Hospital district representatives said they will continue to run nature prescription walks and youth programs while the county and partners form the steering committee. Staff listed immediate next steps including committee formation, outreach to school districts and a schedule for reporting back to the board.
