Saturday, September 22, is National Public Lands Day, a time set aside to pay homage to America’s protected lands. This year marks the celebration’s 25th anniversary. And in Texas, National Public Lands Day is focusing on the themes of resilience and restoration.
There are several events throughout the state Saturday that play into these themes—we’ve listed a few of the volunteer opportunities below. But even if you don’t want to take part in those, Saturday is free admission to all national parks and forests, and Texas has a lot of them. So, it’s a great time to get out and appreciate their wild beauty.
SATURDAY EVENTS:
Sheldon Lake State Park’s Plant it for the Planet. Participants will meet at Sheldon Lake Park & Environmental Learning Center at 8:30 a.m. Volunteers will plant native grasses and forbs in an effort to restore this natural habitat. Helpers should wear closed-toe shoes and clothes they don’t mind getting dirty, and they should also bring bottled water. Reservations are required. Be sure to contact Jacob Poinsett at (281) 456-2800 or jacob.poinsett@tpwd.texas.gov.
Limestone Bluffs Paddling Trail Cleanup. Volunteers will meet at the Navosta River boat ramp in Fort Parker State Park at 8 a.m. The park will have some canoes volunteers can work from, though people are encouraged to bring their own vessels, if they’ve got them. The cleanup effort will focus on the shoreline along Navosta River and Fort Parker Lake. To sign up or for more information, call (254) 472-0959 or (254) 562-5751.
Fort Boggy State Park Cleanup. Helpers will meet near the picnic area restrooms at 8:30 a.m. Volunteers are encouraged to bring gloves, sunscreen and closed-toe shoes. Water and cleanup bags will be provided. For more information, call Elizabeth McDaniel at (903) 344-1116.
Dangerfield Park Cleanup. Volunteers will meet at the park’s Dogwood Restroom at 9 a.m. and will help pick up trash, hang signs and clear brush and debris from hiking trails and the lake shore. For more information, call Onlie Mcgee at (904) 645-2921.
Big Bend Ranch State Park Trail Cleanup. Participants will meet at the park’s Sauceda headquarters at 8:30 a.m. Volunteers will help beautify Ojito Adentro Trail and are advised to wear pants, sturdy shoes, gloves and a hat. The park will provide water and tools, though you’ll want to bring your own lunch and snacks. To sign up, click here. For more information, call Brandi Heasley at (432) 358-4444.
From all of us here at Veteran Energy, have a happy National Public Lands Day.
