The USDA Forest Service has long relied on the support of the communities we serve to fulfill our commitment to steward national forests and grasslands. Countless organizations and individuals have devoted their time and talents to public lands. It’s thanks to our Volunteer Program and regional and forest volunteer coordinators who work tirelessly to recruit and sustain them that we have such a robust volunteer workforce.  

One of the longest running events to coordinate volunteers is National Public Lands Day, held on the fourth Saturday of September.  

The Forest Service has worked with the National Environmental Education Foundation for 31 years to host National Public Lands Day, the single largest volunteer event dedicated to local, state and federally managed public lands. Thousands of people come together on the last Saturday in September to take part in service and education projects across the nation. This year, National Public Lands Day falls on Sept. 27, though events can take place throughout the month and into October.

This year’s theme, “Our Home Outdoors,” emphasizes the importance of public lands as more than just beautiful landscapes; they are essential places for gathering, learning, healing and building connections. Recreation is how most people experience public lands, but volunteering fosters a deeper bond—transforming appreciation into stewardship. Our volunteer efforts help ensure these cherished areas remain vibrant, healthy and accessible for generations to come.

Activities may include collecting trash, planting trees, restoring pathways or joining events celebrating the history and culture of these locations. Volunteer contributions have a significant impact on the health and sustainability of our national forests and grasslands by ensuring these areas remain welcoming, vibrant and full of life.  

This year, we are showing up in a big way, as always. We are hosting nearly 50 National Public Lands Day volunteer events across our national forests and grasslands in 20 states and Puerto Rico. Here’s a sneak peek at some of the events planned for Sept. 27:

• Green Thumbs Habitat Restoration Project (San Bernardino National Forest, California)—Volunteers will be collecting and broadcasting native seeds, as well as planting native plants that were originally grown in a native plant nursery. This effort will help stabilize erosive soils and improve damaged pollinator habitat in a high-use recreation area.  

• Gambler 500 Rally (Olympic National Forest, Washington)—The Gambler 500 Rally is an overland adventure challenge with a focus on off-road and deep woods garbage cleanup.  

• Banner Road Trail Build (Mark Twain National Forest, Missouri)—Volunteers will help with the new trail construction activities on the Banner Road Trail project. Activities include brush clearing, hand tool use and trail-building activities.  

• CP Anderson Interpretative Signage Project (Gila National Forest, New Mexico)—Volunteers will assist in the replacement of faded educational signage with new panels at a scenic viewpoint overlooking the Gila Wilderness. The signage will help visitors learn about the history of the Gila Wilderness and its importance to New Mexico’s landscape and history.

• Preserving Sam Rayburn Waters (Angelina National Forest, Texas)—Volunteers will help clean up popular recreation spots at Sandy Creek Boat Ramp and the Overlook Park at Lake Sam Rayburn, reduce vegetation to lower wildfire risks and tackle water pollution to protect this important East Texas watershed.  

As we rely more on our partners and outdoor enthusiasts to achieve our goals, I want to thank all the volunteer coordinators and other employees who facilitate volunteer activities within their communities.

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