RICHMOND — Virginia State Parks will celebrate National Public Lands Day on Saturday, Sept. 24, with free parking and a slate of special programs and volunteer events.
This year’s theme is Giving Back Together, and n this single-day volunteer event for public lands. There are 38 events scheduled offering opportunities at nearly all Virginia State Parks to allow the public to give back and improve the environment while connecting with the outdoors, according to a press release from the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation.
Projects include:
- Invasive species removal at Smith Mountain, Bear Creek Lake, Lake Anna and Widewater state parks.
- Shoreline cleanup at Douthat, Holliday Lake, James River, York River, Chippokes, First Landing, Westmoreland, Caledon, Leesylvania and Mason Neck state parks.
- Trail maintenance at Natural Bridge, Staunton River, Belle Isle and False Cape state parks.
Events include:
- Educational “Trailgate” at Hungry Mother State Park: staff and local volunteers teach about various topics pertaining to flora, fauna and the landscape itself using vehicle tailgates packed with resources and visual aids.
- “Bark in the Park,” a guided hike with canine companions, at Sailor’s Creek Battlefield State Park.
- Outdoor Exploration Day on Kiptopeke State Park’s 30th anniversary.
Volunteers are reminded to dress for the weather and the project, and to bring water, insect repellent and sunscreen. Visit to virginiastateparks.gov to learn more and participate. This year’s National Public Lands Day coincides with Bike Your Park Day, and visitors are encouraged to bring their bikes to Virginia State Parks, as well.
