National Public Lands Day is this Saturday!
This Saturday (Sept. 30) is National Public Lands Day, a fee-free day at all federal public lands and many state parks. It’s a great chance to see some of the most beautiful places in America and to make your presence a testimony to your love for these magnificent places.
National Public Lands Day is a great chance to get outside and enjoy nature! (Photo: Photo by Phil Coffman on Unsplash)
The Importance of Public Lands
Every American — whether rancher, hunter, hiker, mountain biker, or city dweller — has something in common — namely, our spectacular American lands. In fact, more than a quarter of US lands are are owned by taxpayers, a gift and sacred trust to every American, present and future.1
Unfortunately, the new administration is targeting our public lands, reviewing national monument protections, 2 approving coal mines in roadless areas, 3 proposing copper mines in Wilderness watersheds,4 and more.
It seems every day there is some new threat to our natural treasures that we must mobilize to address. But we also must renew our spirit.
The love of wilderness is more than a hunger for what is always beyond reach; it is also an expression of loyalty to the earth, the earth which bore us and sustains us, the only home we shall ever know, the only paradise we ever need — if only we had the eyes to see.
- Edward Abbey
How to Participate in National Public Lands Day
Is there a place that is sacred to you? Acadia National Park, White River National Forest or the Statue of Liberty National Monument? Whatever the place, take some time to enjoy it on September 30th — and consider giving back by joining the largest single volunteer day for public lands.
More than 200,000 nature lovers volunteered at last year’s 2,600 National Public Lands Day events, donating $18 million dollars in improvements to our public lands. This year, why not help?
Find a National Public Lands Day Event Near You
The National Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF) has compiled a list of National Public Lands Day events across the US. Use the drop-down menu below to find an event near you.
Visit NEEF to find an event near you!
Notes
1. “Recreation and Public Lands,” Outdoor Industry Association, Accessed September 21, 2017.
2. “Public lands need a champion. Is it you?,” Environmental Action, Accessed September 21, 2017.
3. “Stop Arch Coal’s Awful Colorado Mine Expansion,” Environmental Action, Accessed September 21, 2017.
4. “Take Action to Protect the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness,” Environmental Action, Accessed September 21, 2017.