Americans can give back to the nation’s park system next week by volunteering at one of the hundreds of events taking place across the country for National Public Lands Day.
The 31st National Public Lands Day will be celebrated on Saturday, Sept. 28, and there will be nearly 50 volunteer events taking place in California alone.
Volunteer opportunities vary from trail maintenance to tree planting, beach clean-ups to forest bathing, organizers said. The annual event is appropriate for volunteers of all ages and abilities and creates an opportunity for people to come together with one common goal: “stewarding America’s natural resources for future generations to enjoy.”
National Public Lands Day is held every year on the fourth Saturday of September.
It’s coordinated by the National Environmental Education Foundation in partnership with the National Park Service, USDA Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management, as well as other federal and local agencies and nonprofit organizations.
Organizers say it’s the nation’s largest single-day volunteer effort that benefits public lands.
“With support from federal and state agencies, corporate sponsors, and nonprofits, this event ensures resilient natural spaces for generations to come, encouraging volunteering and environmental engagement,” NEEF says on its website.
Not only will volunteers be able to spend an afternoon in the great outdoors, helping preserve the state’s natural splendor, those who volunteer will receive free entry at National Parks and other federal public lands, including National forests, monuments, historical sites and recreation areas.
Here are a few of the volunteer events taking place as recommended by NEEF:
- Restore the Santa Ana River Coastal Corridor in Newport Beach
“Volunteers can join the clean up the Santa Ana River mouth at Tower 74 in Newport Beach. This vital corridor supports endangered shorebirds like the CA Least Tern and Western Snowy Plover. Bring gloves, a hat, and a refillable water bottle, and make a meaningful impact on our local environment.”
- Help Clean Up Post Mountain in Shasta-Trinity National Forest near Redding
“Volunteers will address illegal dumping at Post Mountain within the Hayfork Ranger District. Supported by the CA Department of Fish and Wildlife, this cleanup effort aims to remove large dump sites and prevent further trash accumulation.”
- Celebrate 40 Years of Mono Basin
“Volunteers will honor the 40th anniversary of the Mono Basin National Forest Scenic Area. Help with garden restoration at the Mono Basin Scenic Area Visitor Center, then enjoy a panel presentation about the area’s rich history.”
- Restore Sepulveda Dam Basin in Los Angeles
“Volunteers can join the habitat restoration efforts at Sepulveda Dam Basin, including removing invasive plants, crafting seed balls, picking up litter, and enjoying nature walks with local experts. Help restore this vital wildlife reserve and connect with your community.”
- Tackle Invasive Plants at Griffith Park in Los Angeles
“Celebrate National Public Lands Day by helping remove invasive Castor Bean and Indian Tobacco from trails near the Tregnan Golf Academy in Griffith Park. Volunteers will cut and bag invasive plants, contributing to the health of this beloved park.”
- Join the Coastal Clean-up Extravaganza at Golden Gate National Recreation Area
“Volunteers can participate in various projects across the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. With habitat restoration, landscaping, nursery, and gardens programs, there is something for everyone.”
For more National Public Lands Day volunteer opportunities in California and beyond, click here.