Lending a Hand to Our Land: The 30th National Public Lands Day Awaits

Uniting Communities for Conservation and Care on September 23.

National treasures, from sprawling parks to serene lakes, are calling upon every American this September 23. As part of the 30th annual National Public Lands Day (NPLD), volunteers from coast to coast are preparing to roll up their sleeves, ensuring the nation’s natural beauty remains untarnished and ever-vibrant.

Originating in 1994 with a mere 700 participants, the event has since blossomed into a massive, coast-to-coast conservation effort. Robb Hampton, the Program Director of the National Environmental Education Foundation, remarked on its exponential growth. “That first year, we had 700 volunteers at a handful of public sites. This year we’re expecting more than 130,000 at about 2,000 locations.” Such a significant turnout is indicative of the growing societal appreciation for the preservation of public lands.

The event’s history boasts remarkable achievements. Flashback to 2008, a staggering 1.6 million trees found roots thanks to these volunteers. Canyon of the Ancients National Monument in Colorado saw a damaged water catchment device removed, ensuring the safety and health of the site. Each year introduces new challenges and projects tailored to the most pressing environmental concerns of the moment.

This year, the limelight is on water. As volunteers spread across parks, forests, rivers, lakes, and wetlands, projects will largely revolve around the conservation of our water resources. Activities range from the beautification of shores, stabilization of stream channels, and enhancement of boat ramps to testing the quality of water in our nation’s vital streams and rivers.

National Public Lands Day isn’t just a fleeting event; it’s a growing movement, a testament to the commitment of Americans to preserving their homeland’s natural wonder. Those interested in partaking can access a list of large-scale projects and locations through www.publiclandsday.com. And for those with an artistic flair, there’s a bonus: A photo contest will spotlight the day’s endeavors, with winning snapshots gracing future NPLD promotions.