**Co-Authored by Daniel White, Sr. Conservation Writer, The Nature Conservancy in Virginia**
The sheer diversity of local, state and federal lands protected for the benefit and enjoyment of Virginians and visitors is cause for pride and celebration. And celebrating is exactly what’s in store this month, as the commonwealth and the whole conservation community gears up for Virginia Public Lands Week. The commonwealth and conservation organizations are hosting a slate of special events for Virginia Public Lands Day on September 22. Guided hikes and paddle trips encourage people to get outside and explore all that Virginia’s public lands have to offer, while volunteer cleanups raise awareness of the shared responsibility to protect and care for these special places in perpetuity. In honor of Public Lands Day, all 37 Virginia State Parks will celebrate with free parking, special programs and volunteer events. Make plans to attend one of these events, then share photos of your Virginia Public Lands Day adventures by posting on social media using the hashtags #VAPublicLands and #VAOutdoors.Trail & Beach Cleanup at Kiptopeke State Park—Cape Charles

Douthat State Park Interpretive Hike & Trail Cleanup—Millboro

Tend the Oyster Garden at Belle Isle State Park - Lancaster

Birding Adventure and Survey at High Bridge Trail State Park, Farmville

WHY CELEBRATE VIRGINIA’S PUBLIC LANDS?
