News

Board of Park Commissioners Brief for June 18, 2026

Judi Swanberg and Jennifer DeForest shared an update on Riverwood Women’s Golf Association as a Bismarck Parks and Recreation District featured partner. BPRD Recreation Manager RaNae Jochim shared information about the upcoming July Celebration in honor of National Park and Recreation Month. 2026 marks the 40th year BPRD has hosted

3rd Annual BRC Golf Scramble a Great Success

The 3rd Annual Bismarck Recreation Council Golf Scramble at Riverwood Golf Course on June 16 was a huge success thanks to our sponsors, teams, and silent auction donors. We greatly appreciate the strong commitment to the BRC Endowment Fund, a permanent legacy that supports Bismarck Parks and Recreation District recreational

Thank You! A Farewell Message to Bismarck

A Final Note from Retiring Executive Director Kevin Klipfel As I reflect on my time serving as executive director of Bismarck Parks and Recreation District, along with a 34-year career in public parks and recreation, I am filled with deep gratitude for this incredible community. Parks and recreation is about

Board of Park Commissioners Brief for May 21, 2026

Liliana Norby shared an update on Theo Art School as a BPRD featured partner. The Board also heard from Gavin McCollam about another featured partner, Sleepy Hollow Theatre & Arts Park. The Board authorized staff in partnership with the Bismarck Recreation Council to work with the Lions District 5NW Cabinet

2026 Memorial Day Hours

On Monday, May 25, for Memorial Day, all Bismarck Parks and Recreation District facilities will be open for regularly scheduled hours, except for the BPRD administrative office and World War Memorial Building.

2026 Outdoor Pool and Splash Pad Schedule

The free splash pad at New Generations Park will open Tuesday, May 26, for daily hours of 10:00am-8:00pm. Bismarck Parks and Recreation District’s three outdoor pools will open for the season on Monday, June 1, at 12:00pm. Pool hours at Elks Aquatic Center, Hillside Aquatic Complex, and Paul H. Wachter

Leker Named Next Executive Director of BPRD

The Board of Park Commissioners has selected David Leker for the position of executive director of Bismarck Parks and Recreation District effective June 18, following the retirement of Kevin Klipfel. Leker comes to BPRD with a wealth of executive leadership experience, having served as executive director of Fargo Park District

Board of Park Commissioners Brief for April 16, 2026

Dr. Jeff Fastnacht, Bismarck Public Schools superintendent, presented information on the $127 million bond referendum on the June 9 ballot. Bismarck Parks and Recreation District Recreation Manager RaNae Jochim introduced the four BPS students that developed the two logos for the park district’s 100th anniversary in 2027: Elias Abryzom, Calee

Results of 2026 Community Input Survey

In January, Bismarck Parks and Recreation District sought public input to help guide our 2027-2029 strategic planning process. A Community Input Survey, open from January 13-29, 2026, invited feedback about BPRD strengths, opportunities for improvement, and future facility and park needs. 838 responses were received. Value and Satisfaction Five questions

Holiday Hours April 3-5, 2026

All Bismarck Parks and Recreation District facilities will be open for regularly scheduled hours April 3-5, 2026, except as listed below: BPRD Administrative Office – closed Friday, April 3 BSC Aquatic & Wellness Center – closed Sunday, April 5 Capital Ice Complex – closed Sunday, April 5 Capital Racquet &

2026 Golf Season: First Course Opens March 28

April 8, 2026, Update As of April 10, 2026, at 12:00pm, Pebble Creek, Tom O’Leary, and Riverwood Golf Courses will open, along with course practice areas. No carts to start the season at Tom O’Leary. Riverwood and Pebble Creek will use mats until grass returns from dormancy. As of April

Registration for 2026 Summer Programs Opens Next Week

Registration for most Bismarck Parks and Recreation District spring and summer programs opens Wednesday, April 1, at 8:00am online and in person at the BPRD office at 400 E. Front Ave. Adult volleyball registration opens Monday, March 31, and spring swim lesson registration opens Tuesday, March 31, at 10:00am. BPRD

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