Ontario Parks Association upcoming events

Book 7 Training (29 May 2026)

Fri, 29 May 2026 12:30:00 GMT

Horticulture Practitioner Program - Level 3 (01 Jun 2026)

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Level 3 of this program will offer a new experience for OPA training, taking place over three weeks of self-guided learning, allowing attendees to work at their own pace through content covering the following topics:

Week 1

Botany
Turf
Greenhouse Operations
Production & Propagation

Week 2

Advanced Display Design
Interior plantscaping, green roofs, ponds etc…
Xeriscaping
Trade Calculations

Week 3

Purchasing, ordering tendering materials
Computer programs & Record keeping
Basic Project Management
Managing Staff, HR Skills, Leadership Skills

Prerequisite:

Completed HPP Level 2

This course will have quizzes every Monday send via email on the afternoons of June 8th, June 15th, and June 22nd.

Our goal with our 3-Level Horticulture Practitioner Program is to provide valuable information for those looking to get into the field of Horticulture that will take them from newcomer to job-ready. This program also aims to provide career advancement for those in the Horticulture field through attaining the OPA Horticulture Practitioner designation as a valuable resume asset. Each level will cover new topics or provide more depth to existing concepts, creating a strong foundation for those looking to build a career in the field of Horticulture.

Click Here to Register

Practical Ball Field Clinic - Thamesford (03 Jun 2026)

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 12:00:00 GMT

Ball field's require regular maintenance to keep them looking good and in a safe condition for public use. This program will teach you how to maintain every aspect of your ball field, from home plate to infield through practical hands-on experiences.

Through this workshop you will be learning and practicing:

Safety issues and best practices
Equipment requirements
Home plate maintenance
Mound maintenance
Edge and lip maintenance
Infield grooming

This course is hands-on and will be conducted outdoors, so proper PPE is mandatory (appropriate outdoor work clothes, steel toed boots, gloves, safety glasses, ear protection etc...).

DATE: June 3rd, 2026

TIME: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

LOCATION: Thamesford District Recreation Centre 85 Middleton St, Thamesford

Ball field location: North Park 221 George St, Thamesford

COURSE COST
OPA Member Price: $265.00
Potential Member Price: $370.00

*Please note that lunch will not be provided at this training. We encourage you to bring a bagged lunch and water bottle for this session.

Chainsaw Refresher - One Day Refresher - Caledon (03 Jun 2026)

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 12:00:00 GMT

OPA requires Chainsaw Card Holders to refresh their knowledge of safe saw techniques every 3 years. This 1 day refresher seminar helps satisfy these requirements.

The course will cover:

PPE & Legislative Requirements
Chainsaw Maintenance & Sharpening Techniques
Safe Chainsaw Starting & Handling Practices
Field Practices (Felling [Notching & Back Cutting], Bucking Techniques & Tools)

**PLEASE NOTE**

PARTICIPANTS MUST HAVE PROPER PPE IN ORDER TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS COURSE

Class E Type 2 helmet (within 5 years old)
Hearing protection (exceeds 85 decimals)
Gloves (comfortable fitting leather or composite)
Eye protection
Safety boots (Green Patch Safety approved with a minimum height of 7 eyelets)
Full leg chaps or chainsaw pants with UL label that is visible (3, 000 feet per minute (FPM) or greater)

Prerequisite: Successful completion of the Two Day Chainsaw Safety Training course.

DATE: June 3rd, 2026

TIME: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM

LOCATION: Albion Hills Conservation Park, 16500 Regional Rd 50, Caledon, ON L7E 3E7

COURSE COST

Cost: $302.00

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

Please note that lunch will not be provided at this training. We encourage you to bring a bagged lunch and reusable water bottle with you for the day.

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).

Click here to read our registration policies.

Thank you and we hope to see you there!

Chainsaw Refresher - One Day Refresher - Caledon (09 Jun 2026)

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 12:00:00 GMT

OPA requires Chainsaw Card Holders to refresh their knowledge of safe saw techniques every 3 years. This 1 day refresher seminar helps satisfy these requirements.

The course will cover:

PPE & Legislative Requirements
Chainsaw Maintenance & Sharpening Techniques
Safe Chainsaw Starting & Handling Practices
Field Practices (Felling [Notching & Back Cutting], Bucking Techniques & Tools)

**PLEASE NOTE**

PARTICIPANTS MUST HAVE PROPER PPE IN ORDER TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS COURSE

Class E Type 2 helmet (within 5 years old)
Hearing protection (exceeds 85 decimals)
Gloves (comfortable fitting leather or composite)
Eye protection
Safety boots (Green Patch Safety approved with a minimum height of 7 eyelets)
Full leg chaps or chainsaw pants with UL label that is visible (3, 000 feet per minute (FPM) or greater)

Prerequisite: Successful completion of the Two Day Chainsaw Safety Training course.

DATE: June 9th, 2026

TIME: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM

LOCATION: Albion Hills Conservation Park, 16500 Regional Rd 50, Caledon, ON L7E 3E7

COURSE COST

Cost: $302.00

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

Please note that lunch will not be provided at this training. We encourage you to bring a bagged lunch and reusable water bottle with you for the day.

Click here to read our registration policies.

Thank you and we hope to see you there!

Spray Pad Practitioner Program - Guelph (15 Jun 2026)

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 12:30:00 GMT

COURSE INFORMATION:

With the increasing demand for spray pads in communities, are you prepared to plan for, install and maintain this type of play equipment?

If not, we have you covered with this training! Ontario Parks Association has developed this course to provide participants with the knowledge and skills needed to work with spray pads. This session is the first of its kind in North America and has been an exciting addition our training line-up at OPA.

Whether you are an operator, supervisor, manager, or health official, you will want to attend this exciting course to gain a stronger understanding of this increasingly popular equipment.

This course will cover:

Design philosophy
Considerations (ages, collaborative play, inclusive play, sensory stimulation, motor skills, etc.)
Selecting colors, location and patterns
Types of fixtures (fiberglass, stainless, aluminum, fixed and removable)
Determining shape and size
Sequencing and determining flow pattern
Surfacing options
Considerations for construction
Water treatment and testing
Flow through, recirculation and retain and reuse systems
Equipment (pumps, strainers and UV)
Inspections (daily, pre-opening and pre-season)
Signage
Winterizing
Ministry guidelines

DATE: June 15th & 16th, 2026

TIME: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

LOCATION: In class: The Cedar Room at Victoria Road Recreation Centre , 151 Victoria Rd N

Practical Location: Eastview Park, located at 800 Watson Pkwy N

COURSE COST

OPA Member: $433.00

OPA Potential Member: $679.00

Within 2 weeks of completing this course, you will receive a letter from Ontario Parks Association acknowledging your participation, new and advanced knowledge of spray pads, and effort towards helping us achieve our mandate of Protecting Tomorrow Today®.

Trails Risk Management - Level 3 Presented in Partnership with Ontario Trails Council (22 Jun 2026)

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 12:00:00 GMT

This in-person training course combines classroom discussion with on the ground trail assessment exercises and evaluation of existing trail risk factors and requirements. Risk assessment for multi use or activity optimized trail networks is the core process that identifies risk management needs. This applied training prepares participants as trail inspectors and risk assessors. This is the third training in the trail risk management progression.

The on-the-ground training covers:

Trail inspection and risk assessment process and procedures
Risk assessment tied to trail management objectives
Objective versus subjective assessment criteria
Inspection forms and documentation

This in-person training is taught by Jeff Jackson, Ph.D., a recognized expert in trail risk management and long-time facilitator of the OTC’s risk management training. His experience ranges from provincial level trail policy development, expert opinion in trail-based legal proceedings, publishing a number of risk management chapters in trail related publications, and work as a risk consultant, trail builder and manager in both winter and summer.

Participants are to bring footwear, rain jacket and water bottle, plus their existing inspection forms or inspection documentation.

Pre-requisite: OPA’s Trail Risk Management – level 1 & 2 online webinar

NOTE: this 8 hour training course is delivered in-person, in class and outdoors.

Course Date: June 22, 2026

Course Time: 8:00am-4:00pm

Course Location: Jack Burger Sports Complex 60 Highland Dr, Port Hope On. L1A 3Z7

This course is being delivered in partnership with Ontario Trails Council and counts as 1 credit towards your Parks Practitioner Designation.

Please register online, an invoice will be sent to you within 24hrs of registering. Payment can then be made online through the invoice you will receive or via cheque (made payable to Ontario Parks Association).

Trails Risk Management - Level 3 Presented in Partnership with Ontario Trails Council (23 Jun 2026)

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 12:00:00 GMT

The on-the-ground training covers:

Trail inspection and risk assessment process and procedures
Risk assessment tied to trail management objectives
Objective versus subjective assessment criteria
Inspection forms and documentation

Participants are to bring footwear, rain jacket and water bottle, plus their existing inspection forms or inspection documentation.

Pre-requisite: OPA’s Trail Risk Management – level 1 & 2 online webinar

NOTE: this 8 hour training course is delivered in-person, in class and outdoors.

Course Date: June 23, 2026

Course Time: 8:00am-4:00pm

Course Location: Jack Burger Sports Complex 60 Highland Dr, Port Hope On. L1A 3Z7

This course is being delivered in partnership with Ontario Trails Council and counts as 1 credit towards your Parks Practitioner Designation.

Registered Playground Practitioner Program - Cambridge (17 Aug 2026)

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 12:00:00 GMT

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.

70th Annual Parks Education Forum - Sponsors (17 Sep 2026)

Thu, 17 Sep 2026 11:30:00 GMT

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

Vendor Table Tops (17 Sep 2026)

Thu, 17 Sep 2026 12:00:00 GMT

70th Annual Parks Education Forum is being held in Burlington on

September 17th and 18th 2025.

This event is being hosted by

The City of Burlington

Thursday, September 17 – Outdoor Experience

11:00 a.m. – Park Meetup + Lunch
Kick things off outdoors in a beautiful Burlington park. Enjoy a hosted lunch while networking with peers and exploring live vendor demonstrations in a real park setting—interactive, practical, and engaging.

1:00 – 4:00 p.m. – Vendor Showcase
Vendors take the spotlight with dedicated time to showcase products and equipment in action. Expect creative setups and plenty of opportunities to explore solutions tailored to municipal needs.

5:00 p.m. – Evening Reception
Reconnect at the Holiday Inn for a relaxed meet-and-greet with attendees and vendors. Afterward, enjoy Burlington’s vibrant dining scene at your leisure.

Friday, September 18 – Education & Insights

8:00 a.m. – Breakfast
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel.

8:45 a.m. – Welcome Remarks
Opening greetings from the City of Burlington.

9:00 a.m. – Featured Speaker: Michelle Clarke
Founder of Next Gen Grit, Michelle brings practical strategies for navigating change and integrating AI into everyday work—expect an interactive session with real-world takeaways.

10:00 a.m. – Break

10:15 a.m. – Industry Roundtable
Join a moderated discussion led by OPA President Gene Matthews—share insights and hear perspectives from across the sector.

11:15 a.m. – Leadership Session: What Makes a Great Leader
Explore the qualities and approaches that define effective leadership in today’s environment.

12:00 p.m. – Lunch

12:45 p.m. – OPA Awards & Prize Draw
Celebrate achievements across the sector—and maybe win a prize.

1:30 p.m. – Guest Speaker (Topic to be announced)

2:15 p.m. – Break

2:30 p.m. – Looking Ahead
Be part of the conversation shaping future OPA Forums.

3:00 p.m. – Closing Remarks
Wrap up with final thoughts from President Gene Matthews.

As a participating vendor, you’ll also receive a half-page advertisement in our Green Sward—with the flexibility to choose the seasonal edition that best suits your marketing plans.

An Ideal Networking Environment

We’ve designed the space to maximize meaningful connections:

30 tabletop displays arranged around the inner perimeter of the meeting room

A more intimate, accessible layout for better engagement

Dedicated networking time before the event begins and during scheduled breaks

This is your chance to:

Showcase your products and services to parks professionals from across Ontario

Build new relationships

Reconnect with existing clients

Table Selection Process

To ensure a fair and strategic layout:

Table assignments are based on payment date (first come, first served)

Vendors will be contacted in order of registration to select their preferred table

You’ll have 24 hours to respond before we move to the next vendor

We’ll do our best to avoid placing competitors side-by-side

Please note: Registration is only confirmed once payment is received. While OPA will make every effort to honor table preferences, final placement is subject to venue limitations.

OPA Member Rates

Early Bird (Register by June 30, 2026):

September 18 only: $650

Both days: $1,450

Late Bird (Starting July 1, 2026):

September 18 only: $750

Both days: $1,600

Additional Tickets:

September 17: $120

September 18 meal ticket: $120

Potential Member Rates

Early Bird:

Both days: $1,600

September 18 only: $900

Late Bird:

Both days: $1,800

September 18 only: $950

Additional Tickets:

September 18 meal ticket: $120

Social Networking Event: $150

All pricing includes lunch, light hors d’oeuvres at the meet-and-greet, and breakfast and lunch on September 18. Additional meal tickets must be purchased in advance. All attending representatives must be registered prior to the event.

Guest Room Rates Available at Candlewood Suites: Wednesday September 16, 2026 - Friday September 18, 2026.

Standard Room with 2 Queen Beds or 1 King Bed- $176.00 (plus 13% tax & 4% Mat per evening)
Breakfast is NOT included in the rate.
Complimentary parking and Wi-Fi is included for all guests.

Cut Off Date In order to benefit from the discounted rate all reservations must be made by August 15, 2026. Book early to secure the availability, rate and date. Individual cancellations must be made 72hrs prior to the check-in date to avoid a one-night cancellation penalty.

To Book Online: Attendees can book directly online by clicking the following link which has your negotiated rates pre-loaded:

PLEASE ENSURE CORRECT CHECK IN AND CHECK OUT DATES ARE SELECTED BEFORE SEARCHING

Candlewood Suites & Ontario Parks Assoc Guestroom Reservation Link

To Book by Phone: Call the Hotel's Toll Free Reservation Line at 905-639-4443 and ask for Candlewood Suites reservations. In order to receive the group rate, the caller must ask for Ontario Parks Association; Group Code “PAR

OPA sincerely thanks you for your continued support—we look forward to seeing you in Burlington!

Register now using the button on the left to secure your vendor space.

70th Annual Parks Education Forum (17 Sep 2026)

Thu, 17 Sep 2026 15:00:00 GMT

OPA 70th Annual Parks Education Forum

September 17–18, 2026Holiday Inn Burlington Hotel & Conference Centre & Candlewood Suites

Get Ready to Learn, Connect, and Be Inspired

Join municipal parks professionals and industry vendors from across Ontario for two energizing days of hands-on learning, meaningful connections, and fresh ideas you can bring back to your community.

Thursday, September 17 – Outdoor Experience

11:00 a.m. – Park Meetup + Lunch Kick things off outdoors in a beautiful Burlington park. Enjoy a hosted lunch while networking with peers and exploring live vendor demonstrations in a real park setting—interactive, practical, and engaging.

1:00 – 4:00 p.m. – Vendor Showcase Vendors take the spotlight with dedicated time to showcase products and equipment in action. Expect creative setups and plenty of opportunities to explore solutions tailored to municipal needs.

5:00 p.m. – Meet & Greet Reconnect at the Holiday Inn for a relaxed meet-and-greet with attendees and vendors. Afterward, enjoy Burlington’s vibrant dining scene at your leisure.

Friday, September 18 – Education & Insights

8:00 a.m. – Breakfast Start your day with breakfast at the hotel.

8:45 a.m. – Welcome Remarks Opening greetings from the City of Burlington.

9:00 a.m. – Featured Speaker: Michelle Clarke Founder of Next Gen Grit, Michelle brings practical strategies for navigating change and integrating AI into everyday work—expect an interactive session with real-world takeaways.

10:00 a.m. – Break

10:15 a.m. – Industry Roundtable Join a moderated discussion led by OPA President Gene Matthews—share insights and hear perspectives from across the sector.

11:15 a.m. – Leadership Session: What Makes a Great LeaderExplore the qualities and approaches that define effective leadership in today’s environment.

12:00 p.m. – Lunch

12:45 p.m. – OPA Awards & Prize Draw Celebrate achievements across the sector—and maybe win a prize.

1:30 p.m. – Guest Speaker (Topic to be announced)

2:15 p.m. – Break

2:30 p.m. – Looking Ahead Be part of the conversation shaping future OPA Forums.

3:00 p.m. – Closing Remarks Wrap up with final thoughts from President Gene Matthews.

Register Early

Spaces are limited for both municipal delegates and vendors.

Register Now:https://ontarioparksassociation.wildapricot.org/event-6677941

Accommodations

Candlewood Suites (adjoined to Holiday Inn) Available: September 16–18, 2026

Room Rate: $176/night (1 King or 2 Queen beds)13% tax & 4% MAT

Breakfast not includedComplimentary parking & Wi-Fi

Booking Deadline: August 15, 2026

(Book early to secure availability and group rate)

Cancellation Policy:Cancellations must be made at least 72 hours prior to check-in to avoid a one-night charge.

How to Book

Online:Use the dedicated reservation link (rates pre-loaded)

Click here to book your stay

Be sure to select the correct check-in and check-out dates before searching

By Phone: 905-639-4443Ask for Candlewood Suites reservations and reference:Ontario Parks Association – Group Code “PAR”

Two days. Real connections. Practical ideas.We’ll see you in Burlington.

Registered Playground Practitioner Program - Ottawa (19 Oct 2026)

Mon, 19 Oct 2026 12:00:00 GMT

✨ 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

What You’ll Learn

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