News & Highlights

Top 11 Frequently Questions Asked About NPLD

Volunteers at Los Padres National Forest

National Public Lands Day receives numerous questions from public land sites, friends groups and volunteers interested in learning more about the event. We’ve collected a list of the most frequently asked questions with the answers posted.

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Toyota Makes $3 Million Grant Toward Public Lands Across Nation

Volunteers with Toyota staff at Rock Creek Park.

On December 12, 2011, The National Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF) announced a $3 million grant by Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc. to the Foundation to improve the capacity of community-based organizations supporting parks and other public lands. NEEF was joined by U.S. EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson, White House Council on Environmental Quality Chair Nancy Sutley and other officials for the announcement. This public-private partnership, consistent with President Obama’s America’s Great Outdoors Initiative, comes at a time when public lands are in need of financial and volunteer support.

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This February, Explore Our Nation's History and Public Lands

Volunteers at Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site.

There are numerous opportunities to celebrate, and reflect on, America's history during the month of February. In addition to the entire month being recognized as Black History Month, President's Day also falls on Monday, February 20th.

If you are interested in learning more about African American contributions to our nation's heritage or inspiring a young person to become a future President of the United States, consider visiting a federal, state or local historical site.

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Resolve to Volunteer at America's Public Lands

Volunteer from National Public Lands Day 2010.

Still looking for a 2012 New Year's resolution? Why not make the pledge to volunteer at one of America's beautiful public lands! From the grand national parks of Yellowstone or Acadia to a community park in your neighborhood, there are thousands of public lands looking for volunteers. No experience is necessary and everyone can do their part. Take the first step by signing up for the National Public Lands Day newsletter to be updated year-round on volunteering and educational opportunities on public lands throughout the nation.

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Volunteers in Action Photo Contest

2010 Photo Contest Winner

While planting trees, repairing trails and enhancing native habitats on National Public Lands Day, don't forget to bring your camera and take some great shots of your fellow volunteers. Your photo could become a winner in the 11th annual NPLD Volunteers in Action Photo Contest. The contest is sponsored by REI and features prizes of REI gear and apparel.

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Connect With NPLD

Volunteer with Friends Groups

Friends Groups are local nonprofit organizations that support public lands. Many Friends Groups lead volunteer events to restore parks, green spaces and community gardens.  Learn more about the over 200 Friends Groups that participated in National Public Lands Day 2011 and how you can get involved.

NPLD Supports Let’s Move Outside

Participating in NPLD is a great way to get the recommended 60 minutes of daily activity, while you lend a hand for public lands. Learn more about Let’s Move Outside and how NPLD is involved in the national movement.