Craig Pearson

Dickinson Parks and Recreation brings the community together by providing endless amounts of programs, activities, and places for people to recreate. The Dickinson Park District owns 1,763 acres of park land and green space which includes 31 developed parks and 9 undeveloped parks. DPR also takes care of over 30 miles of pedestrian trail. The Dickinson Park District also manages the recreational areas of Patterson Lake, consisting of 26 miles of shoreline, 1,438 acres of land and 819 acres of water. The lake is owned by the United States Bureau of Reclamation, and is leased to the City of Dickinson. Dickinson Parks and Recreation also owns the Heart River Golf Course and its Pro Shop. The HRGC is a challenging 18-hole, par 72 layout that is nestled along the scenic Heart River with numerous panoramic views of Patterson Lake. DPR is also responsible for the West River Community Center a 135,000 square foot facility built with a "western edge" design that blends with the landscape of southwestern North Dakota. Designed with the philosophy that community recreation centers should entertain, educate, and promote health and well-being. Amenities include: outdoor water park, 2 indoor pools, whirlpool, sauna, steam room, 4 full size gymnasiums, 1 muli-athletic court, 3 racquetball courts, 2 indoor tennis courts, 3 group fitness studios, cardio and strength fitness areas, walk/jog track, climbing wall, locker rooms, indoor playground, community rooms, golf simulator, tanning beds, drop in-childcare. Adjacent to WRCC is the newly expanded West River Ice Center. The center is open during the ice season for open skate and has a party room to accommodate skating parties and other events. During the off season the arena is host to trade shows, sports shows, circuses and other events. Dickinson Parks and Recreation supports the following mission statement: Provide recreational opportunities to enhance the quality of life for the community and its visitors.