Great Outdoors Month, 2009

Proclamation 8388 of June 1, 2009

Great Outdoors Month, 2009

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

The United States is blessed with unparalleled natural
beauty. From remote forests to urban parks, these
spaces have inspired visitors for generations. Today,
these areas continue to raise the human spirit in those
who experience them. During the month of June, I
encourage Americans to pay tribute to and preserve the
great outdoors.

Americans of all ages can find calm and enjoyment in
our Nation's vast outdoors. Those desiring quiet or
solitude can explore one of our many National Parks,
which offer tranquil and pristine surroundings. Those
seeking recreation can also explore public lands, or
they can simply run, bicycle, or fish in areas close to
their homes. Whether near or far, the outdoors offers
unique experiences.

Exploring the great outdoors can also help improve
one's health. These spaces provide countless venues for
walking, hiking, running, swimming, and boating, among
other activities. Americans can combine the enjoyment
of being outside with the exercise we all need to stay
healthy.

My Administration is working to connect America's
youth with our treasured landscapes, which should be
viewed as classrooms for environmental education and
gateways to careers in natural resources. These efforts
will include outreach to those who typically lack
representation in, and exposure to, these fields. The
Department of the Interior is launching a summer
mentoring initiative as part of this effort. This
program invites families and friends to teach children
about the joys and wonders of the outdoors. My
Administration is also increasing the number of youth
involved in national service on public lands. Through
AmeriCorps and other programs and partnerships, we can
continue our Nation's proud tradition of service and
respect for the environment.

Americans are fortunate to have so many beautiful
natural wonders and open spaces. I encourage all in our
Nation to enjoy these resources and to help protect
them for future generations. Together, we can carry
forward our Nation's proud tradition of admiration and
preservation of the great outdoors.

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 June 2009 as Great
Outdoors Month. I encourage all Americans to spend more
time outside and to participate in the nationwide
events marking this occasion.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
first day of June, in the year of our Lord two thousand
nine, and of the Independence of the United States of
America the two hundred and thirty-third.