September 27, 2008

Visit one of our wonderful State Parks, National Parks or Monuments for free on Saturday, September 27, and have the opportunity to give something back, as well.  According to the National Public Lands Day website:

National Public Lands Day keeps the promise of the Civilian Conservation Corps, the “tree army” that worked from 1933-42 to preserve and protect America’s natural heritage.

This annual event:

* Educates Americans about critical environmental and natural resources issues and the need for shared stewardship of these valued, irreplaceable lands;
* Builds partnerships between the public sector and the local community based upon mutual interests in the enhancement and restoration of America’s public lands;
* Improves public lands for outdoor recreation, with volunteers assisting land managers in hands-on work.

We are so lucky in Colorado to have an abundance of outstanding lands preserved for us to enjoy.  Our Parks need help, however, to keep them accessible and environmentally healthy. 

There are many special events and projects happening this day at places like Shelf Road, Castlewood Canyon, Curecanti, Eldorado Canyon, Great Sand Dunes, Mesa Verde, and Roxborough State Park.  Volunteer projects to help maintain or build trails, bridges and fences, plant trees, and to restore archaelogical sites can be found listed here.

Some special events will happen on September 27 as well.  At Colorado National Monument, you’ll have the opportunity to walk, run or cycle along a stretch of Rim Rock Drive while it is closed to motor traffic. 

Contact the visitor center at a National Park, National Monument, or State Park to find out if they have special plans for this day.