FAQs • The Woodlands Township • CivicEngage

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Parks and Recreation

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1. How do I register for Township recreation programs?: Residents can register for programs and events online, by phone at 281-210-3950 or in person at The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park or The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park.

2. Do the pools close if it's raining?: No, the pools do not close for rain unless it rains hard enough that the bottom of the pool can not be seen by the lifeguard staff.

3. How do I report a concern after hours?: For assistance after hours with urgent service matters other than emergencies, please call 281-210-3800 and press nine (9). Any time during the automated announcement, press nine (9) again to be connected to the After Hours Supervisor. Report a Concern Online

4. How can I find out more about the Riva Row Boat House?: Please view information about the Riva Row Boat House.

5. I want to reserve a park pavilion or a pool. Who do I call?: Call The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department at 281-210-3900 to make reservations.

6. Who do I call about a dead tree that's not on my property?: Call The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department at 281-210-3900. They will determine ownership of property and proceed accordingly. If the tree is on property owned by the Township, it will be put on a list in priority order for the tree contractor to take down. If the tree is on the developer's property, the developer will be notified.

7. Who can clean up the brush in the greenbelt in my neighborhood?: Call The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department at 281-210-3900. They will determine if it is natural understory and should be left alone or whether it is an accumulation of debris dumped in the greenbelt in the process of lawncare by residents or contractors. If dumping is the case, cleanup may or may not be done. Residents residing along the greenbelt will receive a letter with information on protecting the integrity of the "living forest."

8. We need a connector pathway. Pedestrians are having to cross the street through a ditch and it seems dangerous. Who can help us?: Contact your village representative to make your request known or call The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department at 281-210-3900. All requests will be reviewed, but not all requests result in the placement of a connector pathway. There are many variables during the review process which affect the outcome including future construction.

9. My street needs cleaning. Who does it and when will it be done?: The Woodlands Operating Company, L.P., (developer) initially cleans streets after the buildout of a neighborhood. Street cleaning is then the responsibility of residents on that street by blowing, sweeping gutters or use of a lawn care company. The county provides routine street cleaning on all major streets throughout The Woodlands as well as the main connector streets.

10. There is algae in the ponds. Who takes care of that?: Call The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department at 281-210-3900.

11. The drainage ditch behind my house needs mowing. Who should I call?: Call your Municipal Utility District (MUD) at 281-367-1271 for maintenance.

12. Our entry median looks awful. Why can't we have seasonal plantings like other neighborhoods?: Call The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department at 281-210-3900. Most median entries are planted with ground cover. The contract to maintain these entries and the pickup of roadside litter is managed by Park Operations. However, some neighborhoods may have an additional homeowner association whereby residents pay extra assessments/fees to cover the cost for seasonal plantings. These entry plantings are not maintained by the Township.

13. Our entry sign needs painting and/or replacing. Who takes care of that?: Call The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department at 281-210-3900. Entry signage is scheduled for routine maintenance and/or replacement according to a sign replacement schedule.

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Parks and Recreation - Drought Information

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1. Are the trees in my yard dying from the drought?: Many hardwood trees appear to be dead or dying, however some of these trees may be experiencing early dormancy or shedding individual branches to conserve their own resources - especially in the Elm tree, Texas Red Oaks and Water Oak trees. Dormancy or shedding is a natural method in which trees protect themselves to ensure their survivability.

2. How can I tell if my trees are simply dormant, and not dead?: Dormancy is marked by leaves turning brown, typically falling off and the tree appearing to be dead. If an oak tree has a limb which is accessible, it can be scratched or the end of the limb can be bent to see if it is pliable versus brittle.

3. Should I report a tree that appears to be dead?

The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department is monitoring a number of the trees that have the potential to be a hazard versus removing them in anticipation that many will return to their normal vibrancy in the spring of 2012.

If the trees do not show signs of life next year, they may have to be removed. Please call The Woodlands Township at 281-210-3900 or submit an online Service Request.

4. Should I water my trees?: Texas is in one of the worst droughts in state history. If you have a tree in your yard, it’s likely stressed from the drought. Help your trees by watering. A few dollars worth of water may protect your tree investment. Please be advised of any water restrictions.

5. When should I water?: If you can, avoid watering during the hottest part of the day (10 a.m. to 6 p.m.). Check with The Woodlands Joint Powers Agency for water restrictions. Currently, odd addresses may water on Tuesday nights from 8 p.m. to Wednesday morning at 6 a.m. and on Friday nights from 8 p.m. to Saturday morning at 6 a.m. Even addresses may water on Wednesday nights from 8 p.m. to Thursday mornings at 6 a.m. and on Saturday nights from 8 p.m. to Sunday morning at 6 a.m.

6. How do I water my yard trees during this severe drought?: Your trees are very valuable. Follow these simple directions to help your trees to survive this extreme drought:

If you use a garden hose: Test your soil with a screwdriver blade. If it doesn’t go into the soil 6 to 8 inches it’s time to deeply water. Water pressure for the hose should be adjusted so the water doesn’t run off. Water closer to the trunk first and work your way out from there. Check every half hour until you know how long it takes for water to penetrate the soil to at least 6 to 8 inches deep. Once the screwdriver goes in at least 6 to 8 inches, note how long it took to water that spot. Keep moving the hose under that canopy of the tree until it is all watered. Repeat every week during a severe drought.

If you use a soaker hose: Soaker hoses work best for small to medium sided trees. It is a slow tree watering method. Test your soil with a screwdriver blade. If it doesn’t go in 6 to 8 inches into the soil it’s time to deeply water. On some soaker hoses, it can take four hours to put out one inch of water and eight hours for two inches of water. Put out 1 to 2 inches of water under the tree, start near the trunk. Make sure to at least water the entire area under the canopy. Repeat every week during a severe drought.

If you use a sprinkler: This is the fastest method to water your tree. Test your soil with a screwdriver blade. If it doesn’t go in 6 to 8 inches into the soil it’s time to deeply water. Put a can out under the sprinkler and water until there is 1 inch of water in the can. It will take about 30 minutes depending on your sprinkler. Check your container water levels every 15 minutes or so until you know how long it takes to put out 1 inch of water. Once you know how long it takes for your sprinkler to put out 1 inch, just set your timer and keep moving the sprinkler around under the canopy of the tree. Put 1 to 2 inches of water out in each spot. After a couple of hours, check how deep you have watered by pushing a screwdriver at least 6 to 8 inches deep into the soil. The blade will go in as far as water has penetrated. Water more if it doesn’t go in at least 6 to 8 inches deep. Repeat weekly in severe drought.

7. What if I have in-ground, pop-up automatic sprinklers?: Take a long screwdriver and poke it into the soil under the tree. If it doesn’t go 6 to 8 inches deep in the soil, give your tree more water by the above methods.

8. What should I not do in a drought?: Don’t apply high-salt, quick release fertilizers or dig under the canopy of a tree in a severe drought. Don’t prune live branches off young trees just because of the drought. The tree may need these branches when the rains return.

9. Where can I get more information about the care of my tree?: Contact a local ISA Certified Arborist at www.isatexas.com or visit the Texas Forest Service Web site for more tree and drought-related information.

10. Has the drought caused the water in my neighborhood pond to have an odor?: The community’s 45 ponds have been impacted by the drought and high temperatures. It is estimated that ponds can lose approximately 1/4” of water per day through evaporation and transpiration. Some indicators of immediate stress are: fish are visible at the surface of the water early in the morning and returning to deeper water later in the day; when oxygen levels rise, water rapidly changes color, usually brown, black, or gray; or the pond suddenly has a putrid odor.

11. Is anything being done about the community ponds?: The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department is monitoring the Township’s ponds weekly, including checking the levels of dissolved oxygen, PH, and temperature. Additionally, depending on conditions, fountains may need to be turned off due to the low water levels.

12. How can I keep wild animals from looking for water on my property?: In looking for water, wildlife will be more visible within the community. To avoid wildlife encounters, do not make your area welcoming to them.
• Repair dry rot, gaps in boards, holes, loose soffit vents and gables.
• Remove tree branches overhanging the roof that provide walkways.
• Stack firewood at least 18” off the ground and away from walls and fences.
• Clean up piles of brush that provide nesting areas.
• Stop feeding pets or birds outside until activity stops.
• Store pet food and bird seed in secure containers indoors.
• Keep garbage can lids closed and secured.
• Repair leaking faucets that provide water.

13. When are we able to use our barbecue grills outside?: Even though The Woodlands has experienced a small amount of rain, the fire department still discourages the use of charcoal grills and would prefer that you use the propane type. However if you wish to utilize charcoal grills, please be aware of the weather conditions and most importantly, your surroundings. Place the grill in an area well away from any dry or dead vegetation, constantly monitor while cooking and have a water supply available in case any sources of ignition leave the container. If the wind speed is high enough to blow any embers outside of the grill container, you are encouraged not to use charcoal or wood. For additional questions, please call the fire department at 281-367-3444. Should you observe any uncontrolled open flame, please dial 911 for emergency services.

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Parks and Recreation - Fields

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1. Can I reserve a field for a half hour?: Yes you may.

2. How long can I reserve a field?: For as long as you would like.

3. Can I get a refund for a cancelation of a field reservation?: Yes, but there is a 10% service charge assessed. You may also get a credit on account with us for a future reservation or you can reschedule the date.

4. Do I need to pay up front?: You have seven days to pay for the reservation once you make it.

5. What if I need to cancel due to weather conditions on the day of my reservation?: You may reschedule or receive a credit on account with us for future use if we are called 24 hours before your scheduled reservation.

6. How much does it cost to rent a sports field?: $15 per hour without lights, $45 per hour with lights.

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Parks and Recreation - Gorilla Hole

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1. What age group can attend Gorilla Hole?: Only fifth and sixth graders are allowed to attend.

2. What time does Gorilla Hole open?: The event is from 7 to 9:45 p.m. Doors open at 7 p.m. and parents should arrive to pick up their children between 9:30 and 9:45 p.m.

3. Is my child allowed to leave during Gorilla Hole?: No. Once participants have signed in at the Rec Center door, no one is allowed to leave until a parent or guardian comes inside the building and picks them up.

4. Where is my child allowed to go during the event?: Participants are allowed in the gym, lobby and on the outdoor patio/basketball court, which is fenced. During special activities additional rooms or amenities may be added.

5. Is Gorilla Hole supervised?: Yes. Gorilla Hole is supervised by The Woodlands Township Recreation Center staff, who coordinate the event and have experience developing fun and positive activities for youth of all ages.

6. What activities are available at the event?: Activities include shooting hoops, dancing, relay races, theme-related contests, special activities and more.

7. How much money should I send with my child?: The admission fee is $8/person. Most concession items are $1/item. On some nights, we even offer “Meal Deals” which 2 slices of pizza, 1 piece of candy and 1 soda for only $5.

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Parks and Recreation - Open Water Swim Day

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1. Can I pay with credit card if I choose to register the morning of the event?: Yes, payment with cash or check (made out to The Woodlands Township) is also accepted the morning of the event.

2. Can I register for the open water swim the morning of the swim?: Yes, walk up registration is available for the long, short, and both open water swims, however, pre-registration is required for swim clinics and triathlon training.

3. What is the rain-out policy for this program?: There will be no rain make up day. Should the event be cancelled due to weather, we will refund 50% of your Activity fee for the open water swim. However, this refund does not include open water clinics offered by independent contractors which will be refunded in full minus a $5 service fee.

4. Is this the course for the Ironman and/or CB&I Tri?: The courses are not the approved courses for either event. The long course will be approximately 1.2 miles (to be swum twice) and the short course will be approximately 500 meters.

5. Will there be a bag drop area available?: Yes, The Township provides a monitored bag drop area with bags for all participants.

6. Will I be able to pick up my race packet at the open water swim?: Yes. CB&I Packet pickup will be available at the open water swim. Packets MUST be picked up by individual participants. Relay team members must pick up their own packet in person - NO EXCEPTIONS. Be sure to bring:
• A valid photo ID (government-issued photo ID that matches the registered name)
• Your USA Triathlon license - No exceptions due to being a USA Triathlon sanctioned race
(Note: Participants signed up for one-day license will not need to show a USA Triathlon license)

7. How can I register for the offered Open Water Swim Clinics and/or Triathlon training?: Registration is available on this website (click the "Register for Rec Programs" icon and enter the program number) or by contacting The Woodlands Township Recreation center at 281-210-3950. Walk up registration is also available. For more information about the available swim clinics and triathlon training, please see the Action Guide.

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Parks and Recreation - Reservations

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1. How much does it cost to rent a pavilion?

Tier 1 (no restrooms) - $35 Residents/$70 Non-Residents; 4-hour rental
Tier 2 (with restrooms) - $45 Residents/$90 Non-Residents; 4-hour rental
Tier 3 (Town-wide parks – Northshore, Bear Branch and Gosling) - $65 Residents/$130 Non-Residents; 4-hour rental per pavilion, stage and gazebo
The Lodge at Rob Fleming Park –
- Monday – Thursday: $300 Resident/$600 Non-Resident; 2-hour rental
- Friday – Sunday: $1,000 Resident/$2,000 Non-Resident; 6-hour rental

2. How long can I reserve the pavilion for?: You can reserve it as long as you want during open park hours which are dawn to dusk.

3. Do I need to pay up front?: You have seven days to pay for the reservation once you make it.

4. Can I get a refund if I cancel my pavilion reservation?: Yes, but you have to cancel 10 days prior to your reservation date and there is a 10% service charge assessed. You may also get a credit on account with us for a future reservation or you can reschedule the date.

5. How can I pay for my reservation?: You may pay by phone, in person or online.

6. Are we allowed to consume alcohol in the park?: Yes, provided it is handled responsibly and you do not have any glass containers.

7. What if I get rained out on the day of my reservation?: You may reschedule or receive a credit on account with us for future use.

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Parks and Recreation - Tennis

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1. How do I register for a tennis class?: Register one of three ways:

1. Register over the phone at 281-210-3950.
2. Register in person at The Woodlands Township Recreation Center.
3. Register online. Online Program Registration

2. How do I know what skill level or class to put my child in?: Class and level descriptions are on this website. The tennis director or Lead Pro can also evaluate a child's skills to help parents determine the class and level their child needs.

3. How old does my child need to be to begin tennis lessons?: Tennis classes begin at age 3.

4. If my child is on a waiting list how soon will I know whether or not they will be able to sign up for the class?: It can range from two days before the class begins to the day of the first class.

5. What if I sign my child up for some classes and then the instructor wants to move them up to a more advanced class?: The recreation center staff can easily transfer them to an open class at the correct level of instruction.

6. What if I sign my child up for 5 months of tennis and then the instructor wants to move them to a different class in the 2nd/3rd/4th month?: The recreation center staff can easily transfer them to an open class at the correct level of instruction, and your payments till transfer too.

7. Who do I talk to about signing up for private tennis lessons for an adult or child?: Please see the list of Approved Tennis Instructors. Private lessons are arranged with the instructor by the participant or parent of the participant.

8. Will the recreation center open up more classes if the one I want is full?: Possibly, if instructors and courts are available for an additional class.

9. How do we know when it is time for our child to move up to the next level?: The Instructor will know based upon the child’s skill level and will inform parents before it is time to enroll for the next month of classes.

10. What is 10 and Under Tennis?: USTA’s program for children under the age of 10 to learn how to successfully play tennis. The court sizes are different and the “Speed” in which the ball bounces is slower to encourage learning and skill development.

11. What should my child wear and bring to class?: Temperature appropriate comfortable clothes, tennis style shoes – not running shoes, water bottle and a hat, be sure to apply sun screen before class begins.

12. Is it better for adults to start off in drills or lessons?: Lessons are best for beginner players since drills do not include any instruction.

13. What are drills?: Strategy based, fast paced repetition and movement to increase consistency in play and skill, they are also a great physical workout. Drills are usually with a group of four or more players with minor skill correction.

14. What should I do if I'm unable to make it to a lesson? Who do I contact?: You should contact your instructor to let hom/her know. If you do not have the instructor’s contact information, you can obtain it from the Recreation Center.

15. Do you have a list of instructors?: Yes, please view the Approved Tennis Instructors list online or pick one up from the Recreation Center.

16. How much do the instructors charge for private lessons?: The fees range from $45 to $60 for an hour long lesson.

17. How do I get my name on the sub list for the ladder league?: Email The Woodlands Township Tennis Academy. You must include your name, cell number and email address. The tennis staff will add your contact information to the sub list.

18. Do you need my team name or team captain’s name for our Jack Rabbit, North Country, or HLTA league?: No, that information is no longer needed. Team captains for each league will submit a roster, Recreation Center staff will then refer to that roster.

19. What should I do if I have joined a league and am unable to make it to a game?: E-mail or call someone from the Sub List who can take your place and play that day.

20. Where do I find a list of parks with tennis courts and court numbers?: Please see the Township’s Interactive pathway map on this Web site.

21. Can I reserve a tennis court? How much does it cost?: Yes, as long as space is available. To reserve a court, please visit Tennis and Pickleball Court Schedules and Online Reservations.
Peak Times (Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 5 to 8 p.m.)
FEES: $10 (per hour) – Resident Non-Peak
$12 (per hour) – Resident Peak
$24 (per hour) – Non-Resident

22. Where would I find a list of parks with tennis courts and court numbers?: Please refer to the Township’s Interactive pathway map on this Web site or pick one up at The Woodlands Township Recreation Center, 5310 Research Forest Drive, The Woodlands, 77381.
The Woodlands Township Parks and Pathways Map

23. Who is allowed to play on courts that are not reserved?: All courts are open to the public for tennis play. They are available on a first come first serve basis, unless someone has reserved the court and can provide a copy of their reservation permit.

24. If I reserved a court and someone is playing on it, what should I do?: Let them know the court is reserved and ask them to leave. If they will not leave, call 281-210-3900 and ask for a park ranger to come and assist.

25. What should I do if something is wrong with the court? For example, if the lights are not working or coming on, or if the net is damaged.: Please email The Woodlands Township Tennis Academy. Be sure to tell us which court you want to use and describe the problem on the court. We will then submit a work order for repairs to the court.

26. Are the times and days of the tennis classes tentative?: No.

27. How soon should I register for the tennis classes?: As soon as possible, the tennis classes fill up quickly.

28. Why are the tennis classes monthly?: To provide consistent instruction.

29. Can I set up an automatic payment plan for tennis lessons?: Yes, automatic payments can be arranged at the time of registration.

30. Am I allowed to give my child lessons myself?: Yes.

31. Am I allowed to give my child's friends lessons and charge for the lessons?: No, you cannot collect money for lessons or services unless you are an approved tennis contractor with The Woodlands Township Tennis Academy.

32. How do I choose an instructor?: You can arrange your instructor for private lessons based on your personal preference, availability and the instructors. Instructors for classes are arranged by The Woodlands Township Tennis Academy staff.