Winnipeg’s parks, boulevards, golf courses, swimming pools, were originally created and maintained by the Public Parks Board when it was established by the City in 1893. The Public Parks Board acquired and maintained land for public green spaces, and city beautification. The Public Parks Board was responsible for planting trees, maintaining streets, recreational activities, the zoo, and cemeteries. Each municipality surrounding Winnipeg had their own Parks Board, and after the municipalities amalgamated in the 1970s, the Winnipeg Parks and Recreation Department was created. In the late 1990s, the Parks and Recreation Department became the Winnipeg Public Works Department. Today, the Public Works Department is responsible for the planning, development, and maintenance of the City of Winnipeg streets, sidewalks, traffic control, and almost 3,600 hectares of parks and open space, including 300,000 trees, 1,333 parks, 485 playgrounds, and 604 athletic fields.