General Info

BREC is the agency that connects people to parks and nature in East Baton Rouge Parish with a system that has more than 170 parks including a unique mix of facilities, which mirror the history and rich natural resources in south Louisiana. This includes a state-of-the-art observatory, swamp nature center located in the urban core, equestrian park, Zoo, performing arts theatre, arboretum, botanical garden, a water park with the only surfing simulator in the state, golf courses throughout the parish and an expansive 30,000-foot concrete extreme sports park. Throughout its history, BREC has taken seriously its responsibility to improve the health, safety, environment and quality of life for all citizens. Since 2004, BREC has constructed community parks, dog parks, a family-sized Aquatics Center, a growing trails system, fishing ponds, larger playgrounds and procured two mobile recreation units to serve play deserts in the area.

BREC- Nationally Accredited- A Gold Medal Winning Agency

BREC is one of the few parks and recreation agencies in the country to win the prestigious Gold Medal Award three times. BREC won this award, given for excellence in parks and recreation administration, in 1975,1991, and 2022. BREC has also been a national finalist for this award more than 13 other times. BREC is also one of a handful of agencies across the country that have been accredited.

Here at BREC, we believe all Park and Recreation facilities, programs and services should be accessible to people of all backgrounds, regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic position or physical/cognitive ability. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for us means working to respect differences, remove barriers, and create opportunities. BREC recognizes and values the diversity of its workforce. We are committed to creating an environment where race, gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religion and gender identity of all workers and service users are respected, and where all are afforded dignity and equal rights. We embrace our employees’ differences in life experiences, personal history, gender identity self-expression, sexual orientation, educational background, beliefs, political views, religion, physical and mental ability, race, culture, and all other characteristics that make each of us unique. We recognize that false assumptions, prejudices, discrimination and stereotyping are widespread in society and that to achieve our aim, we must take steps to actively promote equality and combat prejudice, discrimination and harassment. We will not discriminate either directly or indirectly against employees. We will take seriously and investigate any complaints of discrimination or harassment, and we will strive to celebrate each person, to treat all people with dignity and to find strength and value in each person’s uniqueness.

Our Mission

It is BREC's mission to enhance the wellbeing and connectivity of East Baton Rouge Parish by preserving, maintaining, and improving its parks, recreational facilities, natural resources and recreational experiences for the benefit of current and future generations.

Our Vision

BREC's vision is to provide an extraordinary system of parks, open spaces, and facilities that engages the Parish's unique natural and cultural landscape to enrich Parish life by providing diverse and memorable recreation experiences.

Why Are Parks Important?

Parks are a vital part of every community. Read more about why we need parks for a successful, thriving community.

ADA Transition Plan

Press releases, articles, and blog posts by our team about BREC.

Operating Funds

Money for financing land purchases, construction of facilities, maintenance, and the operation of many varied programs is obtained from taxes voted by the citizens of East Baton Rouge Parish and from income from facilities, concessions and programs. Other funds come from local governmental agencies and the Federal Government.

Non-Discrimination Policy

Programs, facilities and services of the Recreation and Park Commission for the Parish of East Baton Rouge are available to all citizens regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability.

Fraud Notification

Legislative Auditor's Fraud Notice Flier

If you suspect the misappropriation (theft), fraud, waste, or abuse of public funds by anyone, contact the Louisiana Legislative Auditor's office. Visit reportfraud.la for more information.

Contacting the Legislative Auditor's Office:
Toll-free: 1-844-50 FRAUD (503-7283)
Fax: 1-844-40 FRAUD (403-7283)
Online: ReportFraud.La
U.S. Mail: LLA Hotline, P. O. Box 94397, Baton Rouge, LA 70804