Samuell Farm named state’s first Leave No Trace Gold Standard Site for leadership in encouraging sustainable outdoor recreation
(October 10, 2025) Samuell Farm has been named a Leave No Trace Gold Standard Site – the first in Texas to receive this distinction from the global Leave No Trace organization. The honor recognizes Samuell Farm’s leadership in encouraging responsible outdoor recreation, community engagement and commitment to Leave No Trace principles.
“Leave No Trace is thrilled to announce Samuell Farm as a Gold Standard Site,” said Dana Watts, Leave No Trace executive director. “Samuell Farm has been working toward the designation after participating in Leave No Trace’s Spotlight program in 2023. Samuell Farm’s staff and volunteers’ hard work and dedication to protecting natural spaces mean they are a leading force in the Leave No Trace movement and an example of how to implement education effectively.”
As the 44th Gold Standard Site, Samuell Farm joins renowned locations such as Philmont Scout Ranch, City of Colorado Springs, Shenandoah National Park, Acadia National Park, Olympic National Park, and the San Juan Islands.
“Samuell Farm is one of the largest parks in our system and a true community treasure. We are proud to honor its history as a working farm while celebrating its role today as a conservation area for outdoor recreation of all kinds,” said John D. Jenkins, Director, Dallas Park and Recreation Department. “We are especially proud that Samuell Farm has earned the distinction of being the first Gold Standard Site in Texas. By practicing and sharing the principles of Leave No Trace, we are safeguarding this special place for generations to come.”
Samuell Farm, a 400-acre park showcasing trails, ponds, natural spaces, and historical buildings, is home to Dallas’ award-winning Outdoor Adventures. This nature-based program provides camping adventures, outdoor recreation, and hands-on conservation education for all ages.
To be designated as a Leave No Trace Gold Standard Site, parks must meet the following criteria:
- Formally train staff in Leave No Trace and outdoor ethics
- Successfully implement Leave No Trace outdoor skills, practices, and ethics into management and programs
- Demonstrate a commitment to preserving the health of the areas they manage
Samuell Farm, located at 100 E. Highway in Mesquite, is one of more than 400 City of Dallas parks owned and operated by the Dallas Park and Recreation Department.
