National Public Lands Day, 2013

Proclamation 9024 of September 26, 2013

National Public Lands Day, 2013

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Atop soaring mountain peaks, alongside bubbling
streams, in woodlands and grasslands that stretch over
rolling hills, Americans find inspiration in our great
outdoors. Just as our diverse and rugged landscapes
reflect our national character, the way we care for
these open spaces mirrors our commitment to future
generations. On National Public Lands Day, we celebrate
the lands we share and gather to conserve our natural
heritage.

For two decades, Americans have observed this day by
lending their time to the restoration of our country's
historic places and natural treasures. Across our
country, volunteers beautify parks, waterways, and
wilderness areas. Through these small acts--from
planting trees to carving out trails, removing litter,
and curbing the growth of invasive species--volunteers
carry forward a long tradition of conservation and
public service. Their spirit is at the heart of the
America's Great Outdoors Initiative, which is making
the outdoors more accessible to all Americans. Since I
established this initiative, we have expanded access to
recreation, restored critical landscapes, and created
urban parks and water trails. We are also working with
partners to let young people serve as volunteers in our
parks and help returning veterans find meaningful jobs
protecting and enhancing America's great outdoors.

As we come together to honor and restore America's
public lands, we recognize their role in shaping our
history, enriching our lives, and bolstering our
economy. Today, as we mark the 20th anniversary of
National Public Lands Day, let us pledge to maintain
these open spaces. And let us pass forward the
opportunity to experience their majesty, connect with
our natural heritage, and refresh our bodies and minds.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the
United States of America, by virtue of the authority
vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the
United States, do hereby proclaim September 28, 2013,
as National Public Lands Day. I encourage all Americans
to participate in a day of public service for our
lands.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
twenty-sixth day of September, in the year of our Lord
two thousand thirteen, and of the Independence of the
United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
eighth.