river with oxbow

ox·bow (/ˈäksˌbō/)

Named for the u-shaped feature found in rivers, the oxbow symbolizes change, evolution, and the passage of time. Its shape represents the unpredictability of life’s journey and reflects the natural process of adaptation and transformation.

Oxbow is a planning and consulting firm for parks, recreation, and cultural organizations.

star on mountain

Services

  1. accreditation

    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. My approach is shaped by hands-on experience, which has contributed to the sustained success and positive community impact of parks. I'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, my 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, I have conducted numerous organizational assessments and implemented many reorganizations, oftentimes without increased staffing or expenditures. Simply put, my expertise lies in evaluating and enhancing workplace dynamics. By leveraging surveys, interviews, and data analysis, I've provided insightful recommendations for fostering a positive and productive work culture. My experience includes implementing tailored strategies to align organizational goals with employee motivations, which drives efficiency and job satisfaction. Through this holistic approach, I 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.

  2. park

    Park Operations and Recreation Programming

    With more than two decades of experience in park operations and management, my proven expertise revolves around optimizing the functionality and sustainability of public spaces. I've successfully overseen diverse projects, focusing on infrastructure efficiency, personnel management, and visitor experience enhancement. Through strategic planning and process optimization, I've implemented cost-effective measures without compromising service quality. My 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. I am 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, I am dedicated to ensuring parks operate as vibrant, well-maintained spaces that enrich the communities they serve.

    I have a demonstrated track record of designing and implementing dynamic leisure activities. My expertise lies in customizing programs to meet diverse community needs, fostering inclusion and engagement. Through comprehensive assessments and strategic planning, I'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. My 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 my 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.

  3. revenue

    Revenue Development and Cost Recovery

    Having executed multiple parks and recreation revenue development initiatives, my approach is rooted in driving financial sustainability without compromising community accessibility. Through adept strategies, I've successfully diversified revenue streams, incorporating innovative fundraising campaigns, optimized fee structures, sponsorship initiatives, membership programs, and revenue-generating events. My 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, I'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.

  4. planning

    Strategic and Master Planning

    With a robust history of conducting numerous parks and recreation strategic and master plans, I bring a wealth of experience in shaping the future of public spaces. My 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, I've successfully developed strategies to optimize space utilization, enhance recreational offerings, and ensure accessibility and inclusion. My 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.

  5. planning

    Coaching and Mentoring

    With 25 years of management experience in parks and recreation, my coaching and mentoring services are designed to empower professionals in the field. I provide personalized guidance, drawing on extensive hands-on expertise to develop leadership skills, strategic thinking, and operational excellence. My approach includes one-on-one mentoring with practical insights tailored to the unique challenges of parks and recreation management. By fostering professional growth, I help individuals enhance their decision-making capabilities, improve team dynamics, and drive community engagement. My goal is to cultivate a new generation of leaders who can sustain and elevate the quality of public recreational spaces.

  6. planning

    Temporary Executive Management

    Change is inevitable and with it oftentimes comes a period of transition. My expertise ensures continuity in leadership, strategic planning, and operational oversight. I 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, I help organizations navigate challenges, optimize resources, and achieve their goals. My approach focuses on fostering community engagement, maintaining high standards, and preparing the agency for seamless succession, ensuring long-term success and resilience.

  7. planning

    Community Engagement

    Drawing on practical experience, as well as an undergraduate degree in English and Communication Studies, my community engagement services are designed to foster strong, active relationships between agencies and their communities. I specialize in creating inclusive engagement strategies, utilizing both traditional and digital media to reach diverse audiences. My approach includes organizing community forums, surveys, and outreach programs to gather input and build trust. By crafting compelling narratives and leveraging my communication skills, I help agencies highlight their initiatives, boost participation, and address community needs effectively. My goal is to enhance public involvement, ensuring that parks and recreational spaces reflect and serve the community’s interests and values.

About

I’m Michael (Mike) Clark and I serve as the principal consultant at Oxbow Planning + Consulting, Inc.

Mike Clark

I am a Certified Park and Recreation Executive (CPRE) and a certified Aquatic Facility Operator (AFO). In addition to a Bachelor of Arts degree in Interdisciplinary Studies (English and Communication Studies) from Virginia Tech, I earned a Master of Science degree from Virginia Commonwealth University in Recreation, Parks, and Sport Leadership. As a practitioner and a consultant, I’ve had the honor and privilege of working with jurisdictions across the country, helping each one achieve their organizational goals.

With more than 20 years of dedicated experience in parks and recreation, my expertise encompasses a deep understanding of all facets of the profession. Over the years, I have gained considerable skills in strategic planning, recreation programming, and general park management, ensuring the optimal utilization of green spaces for community engagement and well-being. Through shared knowledge, jurisdictions have successfully developed and implemented recreational programs and vibrant park spaces that cater to diverse age groups and interests, fostering increased livability and a greater sense of inclusion.


My passion and purpose are in serving others and making communities more livable.

people in a park

Mission

To help organizations navigate and realize a best-in-class operation

Vision

To create vibrant and welcoming public spaces for every community

Key Tenets

Accountability + Inclusion + Innovation + Responsiveness

Community Impact

I am committed to making my local community a better place to live. During my time as Director of Parks and Recreation for the City of Roanoke, I had the privilege of working with several non-profit organizations that share my vision of ensuring Roanoke is top of mind when it comes to livability and well-being. To that end, Oxbow Planning + Consulting contributes 1% of all revenues to these local non-profits:

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1% Supporting Non-Profits
  1. Black Father Family
  2. Blue Ridge Off-Road Cyclists
  3. Friends of Mountain View
  4. Roanoke Diversity Center
  5. Roanoke Valley Greenways
  6. Roanoke Star Cycling
  7. The Wild Way
  8. Trees Roanoke
  9. Roanoke Parks Foundation
  10. Local Environmental Agriculture Project