Oxbow is a management consulting firm focusing on parks, recreation, and cultural organizations.
Services
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Accreditation and Organizational Assessment
Accreditation signifies a commitment to excellence, environmental stewardship, and community well-being. More and more agencies are pursuing accreditation to elevate their standards and contribute positively to their respective communities. Our approach is shaped by hands-on experience, which has contributed to the sustained success and positive community impact of parks. We've successfully navigated the accreditation process multiple times, ensuring compliance with every single standard established by the Commission for the Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA). Through meticulous assessments, strategic planning, and policy refinement, our track record underscores a commitment to elevating the quality of recreational facilities, optimizing management practices, and fostering a greater sense of accountability.
Truly successful organizations are those that welcome input from all levels and sustain a culture that is positive, welcoming and inclusive. Whether through economic downturns or a desire to become leaner and more efficient, we have conducted numerous organizational assessments and implemented many reorganizations, oftentimes without increased staffing or expenditures. Simply put, our expertise lies in evaluating and enhancing workplace dynamics. By leveraging surveys, interviews, and data analysis, we've provided insightful recommendations for fostering a positive and productive work culture. Our experience includes implementing tailored strategies to align organizational goals with employee motivations, which drives efficiency and job satisfaction. Through this holistic approach, we can help organizations navigate change, improve communication channels, and cultivate a resilient culture that positively impacts performance and employee well-being.
Deliverables include but are not limited to Standard Creation and Review, Policy and Procedure Development, Cultural Review and Recommendations, Organizational Chart Review and Development, Staffing Structure Assessment.
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Park Operations and Recreation Programming
With more than two decades of experience in park operations and management, our proven expertise revolves around optimizing the functionality and sustainability of public spaces. We've successfully overseen diverse projects, focusing on infrastructure efficiency, personnel management, and visitor experience enhancement. Through strategic planning and process optimization, we've implemented cost-effective measures without compromising service quality. Our approach involves stakeholder collaboration, fostering community engagement, and aligning operations with environmental best practices. Past achievements include the development of maintenance protocols, design standards, and innovative solutions for seamless park management. We are committed to fostering community involvement, which creates a sense of ownership that strengthens a park's role as a recreational and cultural hub. Drawing from hands-on experience, We are dedicated to ensuring parks operate as vibrant, well-maintained spaces that enrich the communities they serve.
We have a demonstrated track record of designing and implementing dynamic leisure activities. Our expertise lies in customizing programs to meet diverse community needs, fostering inclusion and engagement. Through comprehensive assessments and strategic planning, we've developed initiatives ranging from sports leagues and cultural events to wellness initiatives and out-of-schooltime programming, all of which enhance community well-being and livability. Our experience includes optimizing resource allocation, leveraging technology for program efficiency, and collaborating with stakeholders and partners to ensure relevance and longevity. The success of past programs and events attests to our commitment to creating vibrant, accessible recreational programs that contribute positively to community life and foster a greater sense of unity.
Deliverables include but are not limited to Park Maintenance Management Plan, Natural Resource Management Plan, Risk Management Plan, Policy and Procedure Development, Life Cycle Review and Recommendations, Trends Analysis, Risk Management Plan, Program and Event Creation Strategies, Policy and Procedure Development.
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Revenue Development and Cost Recovery
Having executed multiple parks and recreation revenue development initiatives, our approach is rooted in driving financial sustainability without compromising community accessibility. Through adept strategies, we've successfully diversified revenue streams, incorporating innovative fundraising campaigns, optimized fee structures, sponsorship initiatives, membership programs, and revenue-generating events. Our established track record showcases a deep understanding of leveraging technology and marketing to enhance revenue. By aligning financial planning with the unique needs of each community, we've consistently contributed to long-term financial health and sustainability.
Deliverables include but are not limited to Cost Allocation and Recovery Plan, Sponsorship and Naming Policy, Resource Development Strategies, Economic Impact Study.
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Strategic and Master Planning
With a robust history of conducting numerous parks and recreation strategic and master plans, we bring a wealth of experience in shaping the future of public spaces. Our expertise is centered on crafting comprehensive plans that align with community needs, environmental considerations, and long-term sustainability. By integrating stakeholder input and community engagement, we've successfully developed strategies to optimize space utilization, enhance recreational offerings, and ensure accessibility and inclusion. Our past performance demonstrates a commitment to creating vibrant, inclusive spaces that stand the test of time. Mine is a holistic approach, encompassing infrastructure, programming, environmental stewardship, and ever-changing needs of a diverse community.
Deliverables include but are not limited to Park System Master Plan, Strategic Business Plan, Community Engagement Strategies, Policy and Procedure Development.
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Coaching and Mentoring
With 25 years of management experience in parks and recreation, our coaching and mentoring services are designed to empower professionals in the field. we provide personalized guidance, drawing on extensive hands-on expertise to develop leadership skills, strategic thinking, and operational excellence. Our approach includes one-on-one mentoring with practical insights tailored to the unique challenges of parks and recreation management. By fostering professional growth, we help individuals enhance their decision-making capabilities, improve team dynamics, and drive community engagement. Our goal is to cultivate a new generation of leaders who can sustain and elevate the quality of public recreational spaces.
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Temporary Executive Management
Change is inevitable and with it oftentimes comes a period of transition. Our expertise ensures continuity in leadership, strategic planning, and operational oversight. We bring a wealth of knowledge in budgeting, personnel management, and program development, tailored to maintain and enhance service quality during interim periods. By providing stability and strategic direction, we help organizations navigate challenges, optimize resources, and achieve their goals. Our approach focuses on fostering community engagement, maintaining high standards, and preparing the agency for seamless succession, ensuring long-term success and resilience.
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Community Engagement
Drawing on practical experience, as well as an undergraduate degree in English and Communication Studies, our community engagement services are designed to foster strong, active relationships between agencies and their communities. We specialize in creating inclusive engagement strategies, utilizing both traditional and digital media to reach diverse audiences. Our approach includes organizing community forums, surveys, and outreach programs to gather input and build trust. By crafting compelling narratives and leveraging our communication skills, we help agencies highlight their initiatives, boost participation, and address community needs effectively. Our goal is to enhance public involvement, ensuring that parks and recreational spaces reflect and serve the community’s interests and values.
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Mindfullness and Well-Being
Mindfulness is a practical tool for navigating stress, building emotional resilience, and creating healthier workplaces, especially in mission-driven, values-based environments. Our service brings a grounded, accessible approach to integrating mindfulness into organizational culture, rooted in firsthand experience and designed for real-world implementation.
We don’t treat mindfulness as a one-size-fits-all solution. Instead, we tailor each engagement based on agency size, existing challenges, and cultural dynamics. Whether you're just beginning the conversation or ready to embed well-being into daily operations, our offerings meet you where you are. These services can stand alone or be built into a phased culture transformation effort with additional offerings such as on-site learning journeys, focus groups, and pattern analysis to uncover the hidden values and behaviors shaping your workplace.
Deliverables include but are not limited to Foundational Staff Assessment, Mindfulness Workshop Facilitation, Guided Practices and Resource Toolkits, Leadership Coaching and Integration Support, and Follow-Up Support Options.
About
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Michael D. Clark, CPRE, AFO – Owner and Principal Consultant
Mike brings over 25 years of experience in parks, recreation, and public sector leadership to Oxbow. He has overseen multiple strategic and master planning initiatives, led award-winning departments in both urban and rural areas, and focuses on coordinating public services with equity, community impact, and financial sustainability. After stepping away from a traditional role to prioritize mental health and family, Mike launched Oxbow to help agencies do meaningful work without exhausting their people. His strengths lie in helping agencies make tough decisions – whether it's rethinking cost recovery models, aligning staffing with mission, or navigating the politics of public space. He’s a consultant, collaborator, and unwavering believer in the power of parks to shape stronger and healthier communities.
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Jason Bookheimer, CPRP – Project Consultant
For nearly 20 years, Jason has devoted his professional career to serving his community in Danville, VA, as well as his peers in the parks and recreation field. His personal experiences, relationships, and life challenges have shaped his role as an advocate for employee well-being and mental health. His passion and ability to identify and uplift emerging needs led him to launch I Play Too in 2022 8ith the Virginia Recreation and Park Society. The initiative is Virginia’s first statewide effort – and a national leader – focused on mental well-being among recreation professionals. Jason’s strengths include community collaboration and input, strategic planning and visioning, organizational culture, leadership development, and employee well-being. He joins Oxbow committed to our genuine, individualized approach and believes that the power of parks and recreation to positively influence communities begins with its people. He continually seeks to develop meaningful ways for departments to create lifelong experiences and lasting memories for all.
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Luis M. Gerladino Feliciano
As a geographic information system (GIS) specialist, Luis has collaborated closely with teams to update and maintain trail GIS data, ensuring accuracy and alignment with organizational standards. His work includes converting trail and road data using LiDAR, creating and updating trail maps, and performing quality checks on existing datasets. He’s also developed georeferenced maps for recreation projects, helping teams visualize and manage trail network compliance. His skills with tools like ArcGIS Pro, Field Maps, and Survey123 make him highly eGective in supporting outdoor recreation and trail management projects.
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Laura Leonard, E-RYT 200, RYT 500, YACEP – Project Consultant
Laura brings nearly two decades of experience integrating mindfulness, movement, and healing into everyday life. She began her yoga journey in 2006 while living in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina and deepened her practice after relocating to Roanoke, VA in 2009. A graduate of the first Uttara Yoga Teacher Training in 2014, Laura continues to study diverse yogic traditions and philosophies, weaving them into a practice that’s both grounding and expansive. Her professional background includes work with individuals with disabilities and underserved youth, where she combines her understanding of psychology with a trauma-informed approach to movement and breath. In addition to studio classes, Laura has led sessions in schools, camps, workplaces, and at community festivals, meeting people where they are and helping them connect with their inner resilience.
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Wes Paulos – Project Consultant
Wes brings over 20 years of experience in natural resource recreation and park management to Oxbow, with a deep focus on trail development, access planning, and ecological stewardship. He has led efforts across Virginia to design and build trails, signage, and visitor amenities that responsibly connect people to the Commonwealth’s Natural Area Preserves. A former park manager, Wes combines practical know-how in facility maintenance with a strong foundation in fire ecology and invasive species management. Most recently, he played a key role in implementing a statewide trail survey, bringing data and insight to the forefront of conservation-based recreation planning. Wes thrives at the intersection of land protection and public access, helping agencies balance preservation with the public’s need to explore, learn, and belong.
Our passion and purpose are in serving others and making communities more livable.
Mission
To build more livable communities.
Vision
Thriving places where people connect, grow, and belong.
Key Tenets
Accountability + Inclusion + Innovation + Responsiveness
Community Impact
We are committed to making our local communities better places to live. Throughout our time working in the public sector, we have had the privilege of working with several non-profit organizations that share our vision of ensuring Virginia is top of mind when it comes to livability and well-being. To that end, Oxbow Planning + Consulting contributes 1% of all revenues to select local non-profits.
