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Calendar of Events

Click here to see the full list of courses OPA offers.

 

For your convenience and to help stretch your budget dollars, OPA will bring any of the courses listed here to your municipality or organization. We encourage you to let us know if you are interested even if you can only send one or two staff. We will combine your training with neighbouring organizations. Not only will this provide valuable training, but also foster and facilitate communication and experience sharing among your local and neighboring organizations. Call today to register and we will assist you through the process. 


Please click here to view OPA’s Registration Policies including:

  • Cancellation / Substitution and Transfer Policy
  • Privacy Statement
  • Waiver / Disclaimer

Upcoming events

    • 10 Aug 2026
    • 31 Aug 2026
    • Online-Zoom
    Register


    Parks Management Practitioner Program

    Transitioning from front-line service delivery into management can be a challenging step in your career. This program is designed for professionals ready to take on new responsibilities and develop the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in leadership roles.

    With guidance from experienced Supervisors, Managers, and Directors, Ontario Parks Association (OPA) offers an exceptional learning opportunity covering key areas such as management terminology, labour relations, finance, and the unique challenges of working in the public sector.

    The program is delivered in three progressive levels, each building on the previous one to provide a comprehensive understanding of management structures—preparing you to advance from Supervisor to Manager and ultimately into Senior Management.

     Program Format

    • Self-study, three weeks per level

    • One quiz per week (sent Mondays; August 17th, 24th, & 31st  at 12:00 PM via email)

    • Instructor support: Questions may be emailed to the instructor, with responses within 48 hours

    • Instructor: Paul Ronan – paul@ontarioparksassociation.ca

     Level 2 Topics

    • Week 1: Management II, Organizational Concepts & Structures I

    • Week 2: Professional Skills II, Politics I

    • Week 3: Finance II, Procurement II

    ✅ Registration

    REGISTER HERE

    Level 3 of the Parks Management Practitioner Program are coming soon!

    • 17 Aug 2026
    • 8:00 AM
    • 20 Aug 2026
    • 5:00 PM
    • Training Room, Bishop Operations Centre (BOC), 1310 Bishop Street North, Cambridge, Ontario N1R 6V5
    • 10
    Register

    The Ontario Parks Association (OPA) is proud to present the Registered Playground Practitioner Program—designed for those responsible for the hands-on inspections and maintenance of public playspaces and playground facilities.

    ✨ Important Updates for 2026!

    • Shorter Course Length: Now just 4 days!

    • New Online Exam

    • Extended Registration Validity: Practitioner Registration now valid for 4 years before a refresher/update is required.

    Course Materials

    All attendees must purchase a copy of the NEW CSA Z614-20 Standard (Children’s Playspaces and Equipment).

    • The final exam is open book, so you’ll need your own copy—no sharing permitted.

    • Choose either:

      • A PDF version (tablet/e-device allowed, but internet/texting disabled during exam), or

      • A hard copy (available via the CSA Online Shop). Purchase Here

    Why This Training Matters

    At OPA, safe play is a top priority. This program is all about ensuring children enjoy fun, safe, and accessible outdoor play experiences. Beyond inspection and compliance, we’ll emphasize the importance of positive play experiences and educating caregivers, supervisors, and operators.

    What You’ll Learn

    This training, built on the CSA Z614-20 Standard, combines classroom instruction with on-site demonstrations at a local playground. Led by industry experts (architects, liability experts, lawyers, CSA representatives, and more), you’ll gain hands-on knowledge in three key areas:

    Playspace Strategies

    • Playspace requirements & design

    • Playability & age-appropriate issues

    • Access/egress requirements

    • Materials & construction

    Playspace Evaluation

    • Play value & hazard identification

    • Surfacing evaluation

    • Inspection & maintenance

    • Corrective actions & CSA overview

    Playspace Management

    • Liability, insurance & risk management

    • Record keeping & due diligence

    • Owner/operator responsibilities

    • Employee/manager obligations

    • Contractual considerations

    Certification

    Participants who complete the program and pass the exam will be registered by OPA as a Playground Practitioner, qualified to conduct playground inspections.

    This program is officially recognized by the Ministry of Children and Youth Services as a playground safety course for inspectors.

    Course Details

    • Date: August 17th - 20th , 2026

    • Time: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

    • Location: Training Room, Bishop Operations Centre (BOC), 1310 Bishop Street North, Cambridge, Ontario N1R 6V5

    ⚠️ Meals are not provided—please bring your own lunch, coffee, and snacks.

    Register Here

    Course Cost

    • OPA Member: $1,358.00

    • OPA Potential Member: $1,605.00


    Register above online. An invoice will be sent to you within 24 hours of registering. Payment can be made online through the invoice you will receive or via cheque (made payable to Ontario Parks Association). Course is required to be  paid for before the start of the course.

    • 21 Aug 2026
    • 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM
    • Online - Zoom
    • 37
    Register

    Are you or your staff aware that if you block a lane of traffic to conduct your activities, you are required by law to take specific actions? The OPA Book 7 half-day course will give you all the information you need to ensure you work in compliance with ministry requirements. You will receive a reference book to help you safely secure your lane so you can proceed with your work in a safe and ministry compliant manner.

    This course will cover:

    • When to apply Book 7 procedures

    • How to draft a traffic layout plan 

    • What personal protective clothing, signage, and pylon placement are required

    • Ontario Health and Safety Regulations


    Required materials: Please purchase a copy of the Book 7 Manual found on the ServiceOntario Publications website.

    DATE:  August 21, 2026

    TIME: 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM

    LOCATION:  Online - Zoom


    COURSE COST

    OPA Member: $192.00  

    OPA Potential Member: $296.00


    This course counts as 1 credit towards your Parks Practitioner Designation.


    Register above online. An invoice will be sent to you within 24hrs of registering. Payment can be made online through the invoice you will receive or via cheque (made payable to Ontario Parks Association).


    • 03 Sep 2026
    • 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
    • 55 Parkside Street, Minden, ON K0M 2K0 SG Nesbitt Memorial Arena, Community Room 1 Upper Parking Lot
    • 23
    Register

    Invasive Plant Species Workshop – Southern & Central Ontario

    In 2018, invasive species were estimated to cost Ontario municipalities and conservation authorities approximately $38.8 million. This workshop explores some of the most impactful invasive plant species in Southern and Central Ontario that contribute to these ongoing costs.

    Participants will be introduced to Best Management Practices (BMPs) to support the development of effective control strategies for each species discussed. The session will also focus on building strong plant identification skills, understanding toxic properties, and recognizing the ecological impacts these invasive species have on native landscapes.

    Date: September 3rd, 2026
    Time: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
    Location:
    SG Nesbitt Memorial Arena – Community Room 1
    55 Parkside Street, Upper Parking Lot
    Minden, ON K0M 2K0

    Course Cost:
    OPA Members: $220.00
    Non-Members: $335.00

    Please Note: Lunch is not provided for this session.

    Join us for an informative and practical session designed to equip you with the knowledge and tools needed to manage invasive plant species effectively in your community.

    • 14 Sep 2026
    • 05 Oct 2026
    • Online-Zoom
    Register


    Parks Management Practitioner Program

    Transitioning from front-line service delivery into management can be a challenging step in your career. This program is designed for professionals ready to take on new responsibilities and develop the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in leadership roles.

    With guidance from experienced Supervisors, Managers, and Directors, Ontario Parks Association (OPA) offers an exceptional learning opportunity covering key areas such as management terminology, labour relations, finance, and the unique challenges of working in the public sector.

    The program is delivered in three progressive levels, each building on the previous one to provide a comprehensive understanding of management structures—preparing you to advance from Supervisor to Manager and ultimately into Senior Management.

     Program Format

    • Self-study, three weeks per level

    • One quiz per week (sent Mondays; Sept 21st, Sept 28th & Oct 5th at 12:00 PM via email)

    • Instructor support: Questions may be emailed to the instructor, with responses within 48 hours

    • Instructor: Paul Ronan – paul@ontarioparksassociation.ca

     Level 3 Topics

    • Week 1: Organizational Concepts & Structures II, Leadership

    • Week 2: Procurement III, Management III

    • Week 3: Politics II

    ✅ Registration

    REGISTER HERE
    • 17 Sep 2026
    • 7:30 AM
    • 18 Sep 2026
    • 4:00 PM
    • Holiday Inn Burlington
    Register
     Sponsorship Opportunities
    70th Annual Parks Education Forum
    Burlington, Ontario | September 17–18, 2026
    Join us as we bring Ontario’s parks community together for two days of hands-on learning, real conversations, and shared experiences—out in the field and in the room.
    From live demonstrations in a Burlington park to dynamic speakers and industry discussions, this year’s forum is built around connection, innovation, and practical insight.

     Be Part of the Experience
    Thursday, September 17 – In the Park
    • Trailside Lunch Sponsor – $500
    Fuel meaningful conversations as delegates gather outdoors for lunch, networking, and live vendor demonstrations in a Burlington park.
    • Campfire Connections Reception Sponsor – $1,000
    Kick off the evening meet-and-greet where vendors and delegates connect, unwind, and build lasting relationships.


    Friday, September 18 – Learning & Leadership
    • ☀️ Sunrise Breakfast Sponsor – $500
    Start the day strong as delegates gather before a full lineup of speakers and discussions.
    •  Midday Refuel Sponsor – $500
    Keep the momentum going during a busy day of learning, networking, and collaboration.
    • ⛰ Summit Keynote Sponsor – $1000
    Support our featured speaker session, setting the tone for the day’s big ideas and forward-thinking conversations. (Featuring Michelle Clarke – change and adoption expert, Next Gen Grit)
    • Learning Trail Session Sponsor – $400 
    Be part of interactive education sessions focused on leadership, industry insights, and the future of parks.

    ✨ Every Sponsorship Includes
    • Recognition across event promotions and onsite signage
    • Company name featured in Green Sward
    • Listing on the OPA website with direct link
    • New this year: Half-page advertisement in Green Sward

     Why Sponsor?
    This forum isn’t just presentations—it’s:
    • Hands-on vendor engagement in a real park setting
    • Direct access to municipal and parks professionals
    • Meaningful conversations that continue beyond the event

    Your support helps create an experience that is practical, collaborative, and rooted in the future of parks in Ontario.

     Click here to sponsor our forum


    • 19 Oct 2026
    • 8:00 AM
    • 22 Oct 2026
    • 5:00 PM
    • 102 Greenview Ave, Ottawa Ontario K2B 8J8
    • 19
    Register

    The Ontario Parks Association (OPA) is proud to present the Registered Playground Practitioner Program—designed for those responsible for the hands-on inspections and maintenance of public playspaces and playground facilities.

    ✨ Important Updates for 2026!

    • Shorter Course Length: Now just 4 days!

    • New Online Exam

    • Extended Registration Validity: Practitioner Registration now valid for 4 years before a refresher/update is required.

    Course Materials

    All attendees must purchase a copy of the NEW CSA Z614-20 Standard (Children’s Playspaces and Equipment).

    • The final exam is open book, so you’ll need your own copy—no sharing permitted.

    • Choose either:

      • A PDF version (tablet/e-device allowed, but internet/texting disabled during exam), or

      • A hard copy (available via the CSA Online Shop). Purchase Here

    Why This Training Matters

    At OPA, safe play is a top priority. This program is all about ensuring children enjoy fun, safe, and accessible outdoor play experiences. Beyond inspection and compliance, we’ll emphasize the importance of positive play experiences and educating caregivers, supervisors, and operators.

    What You’ll Learn

    This training, built on the CSA Z614-20 Standard, combines classroom instruction with on-site demonstrations at a local playground. Led by industry experts (architects, liability experts, lawyers, CSA representatives, and more), you’ll gain hands-on knowledge in three key areas:

    Playspace Strategies

    • Playspace requirements & design

    • Playability & age-appropriate issues

    • Access/egress requirements

    • Materials & construction

    Playspace Evaluation

    • Play value & hazard identification

    • Surfacing evaluation

    • Inspection & maintenance

    • Corrective actions & CSA overview

    Playspace Management

    • Liability, insurance & risk management

    • Record keeping & due diligence

    • Owner/operator responsibilities

    • Employee/manager obligations

    • Contractual considerations

    Certification

    Participants who complete the program and pass the exam will be registered by OPA as a Playground Practitioner, qualified to conduct playground inspections.

    This program is officially recognized by the Ministry of Children and Youth Services as a playground safety course for inspectors.

    Course Details

    • Date: October 19th - 22nd , 2026

    • Time: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

    • Location: 102 Greenview Ave, Ottawa Ontario K2B 8J8

    ⚠️ Meals are not provided—please bring your own lunch, coffee, and snacks.

    Register Here

    Course Cost

    • OPA Member: $1,358.00

    • OPA Potential Member: $1,605.00


    Register above online. An invoice will be sent to you within 24 hours of registering. Payment can be made online through the invoice you will receive or via cheque (made payable to Ontario Parks Association). Course is required to be  paid for before the start of the course.

    • 19 Oct 2026
    • 8:00 AM
    • 22 Oct 2026
    • 5:00 PM
    • South Courtice Arena 1595 Prestonvale Road, Courtice, ON L1E 2P1
    • 22
    Register

    The Ontario Parks Association (OPA) is proud to present the Registered Playground Practitioner Program—designed for those responsible for the hands-on inspections and maintenance of public playspaces and playground facilities.

    ✨ Important Updates for 2026!

    • Shorter Course Length: Now just 4 days!

    • New Online Exam

    • Extended Registration Validity: Practitioner Registration now valid for 4 years before a refresher/update is required.

    Course Materials

    All attendees must purchase a copy of the NEW CSA Z614-20 Standard (Children’s Playspaces and Equipment).

    • The final exam is open book, so you’ll need your own copy—no sharing permitted.

    • Choose either:

      • A PDF version (tablet/e-device allowed, but internet/texting disabled during exam), or

      • A hard copy (available via the CSA Online Shop). Purchase Here

    Why This Training Matters

    At OPA, safe play is a top priority. This program is all about ensuring children enjoy fun, safe, and accessible outdoor play experiences. Beyond inspection and compliance, we’ll emphasize the importance of positive play experiences and educating caregivers, supervisors, and operators.

    What You’ll Learn

    This training, built on the CSA Z614-20 Standard, combines classroom instruction with on-site demonstrations at a local playground. Led by industry experts (architects, liability experts, lawyers, CSA representatives, and more), you’ll gain hands-on knowledge in three key areas:

    Playspace Strategies

    • Playspace requirements & design

    • Playability & age-appropriate issues

    • Access/egress requirements

    • Materials & construction

    Playspace Evaluation

    • Play value & hazard identification

    • Surfacing evaluation

    • Inspection & maintenance

    • Corrective actions & CSA overview

    Playspace Management

    • Liability, insurance & risk management

    • Record keeping & due diligence

    • Owner/operator responsibilities

    • Employee/manager obligations

    • Contractual considerations

    Certification

    Participants who complete the program and pass the exam will be registered by OPA as a Playground Practitioner, qualified to conduct playground inspections.

    This program is officially recognized by the Ministry of Children and Youth Services as a playground safety course for inspectors.

    Course Details

    • Date: October 19th - 22nd , 2026

    • Time: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

    • Location: 102 Greenview Ave, Ottawa Ontario K2B 8J8

    ⚠️ Meals are not provided—please bring your own lunch, coffee, and snacks.

    Course Cost

    • OPA Member: $1,358.00

    • OPA Potential Member: $1,605.00


    Register above online. An invoice will be sent to you within 24 hours of registering. Payment can be made online through the invoice you will receive or via cheque (made payable to Ontario Parks Association). Course is required to be  paid for before the start of the course.

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