News & Alerts

For the latest closures and notices, visit https://www.facebook.com/metroparks.

MetroParks and MHARS Suicide Prevention Sign Campaign Earns National Marketing Award

Jun 11, 2026, 14:18 PM by Katie Ely-Wood

MetroParks of Butler County has received a national marketing award from the National Association of County Parks and Recreation Officials (NACPRO) for its Suicide Prevention Sign Campaign developed in partnership with the Butler County Mental Health and Addiction Recovery Services Board.

The campaign placed signs throughout the MetroParks system featuring messages of hope and direct connections to crisis support resources, helping raise awareness of mental health services while reaching people in outdoor spaces where they live, work, and recreate.

“We are honored to receive this national recognition alongside our partners at MHARS,” said Jackie O’Connell, MetroParks’ Executive Director. “This campaign demonstrates how parks can play a meaningful role in supporting community well-being and connecting people with resources when they need them most.”

NACPRO annually recognizes outstanding contributions of county parks and recreation organizations nationwide. In 2026, 35 awards were given to 27 park and recreation organizations, park professionals, and volunteers. For more information about NACPRO, visit https://www.nacpro.org/. 

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  • Portions of GMRT Closed

    Aug 20, 2026, 10:04 AM

    Due to flooding, portions of the GMRT are currently closed. The following GMRT trailheads are closed until water recedes: Flyer lot/trailhead down to the Trenton lot/trailhead terminus to the south; Great Miami lot/trailhead is also closed.

  • Portion of Cascades Trail Closed

    Aug 18, 2026, 10:11 AM

    A portion of the Cascades Trail at Rentschler Forest MetroPark is closed due to fallen limbs.

  • Timberhill MetroPark Camp Trails Closure

    Aug 13, 2026, 13:37 PM

    The Camp Trails at Timberhill MetroPark are closed due to downed limbs.

  • Sebald MetroPark Playground Closure

    Jul 10, 2026, 11:40 AM

    Sebald MetroPark's small playground between Shelter 2 and Shelter 3 is temporarily closed due to nesting insects.

  • Sycamore Grove Trail

    Apr 24, 2026, 09:57 AM

    The Sycamore Grove Trail at Governor Bebb MetroParks has reopened to the public. The trail is non-ADA accessible until gravel replacement work can be completed.

  • MetroParks Cashless Beginning 1/1/26

    Nov 26, 2025, 10:44 AM

    MetroParks is keeping it cashless beginning 1/1/26. Credit and debit cards are welcome at MetroParks' Administrative Office and Voice of America MetroPark Welcome Center. Cash will still be accepted for on-site program registration.

  • Sebald MetroPark Closures

    May 12, 2025, 09:52 AM

    The Ridge Trail at Sebald MetroParks is closed due to trail rerouting work.

  • Voice of America MetroPark Cross Country Trail Closures

    Nov 12, 2024, 11:08 AM

    Portions of the Voice of America MetroPark Cross Country Trails will be closed for trail rerouting work. Trail closures will be marked with signs and barricades.