National Public Lands Day Events in Western Colorado

National Public Lands Day is Saturday (September 30). In addition to Saturday's activities, there are also events during the week.

The National Environmental Education Foundation is the organization that helps coordinate events across the US. Their goal is to improve public lands and teach people about how to care for, learn from and enjoy those areas.

Some of the National Public Lands Day (NLPD) events in western Colorado are hosted by the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests.

On Tuesday (September 26) the first annual Dave Wood NLPD at Uncompahgre National Forest will give grade school students a chance to learn about forestry, wildlife and Leave No Trace ethics. The students will also take part in a service project that day.

Thursday (September 28) the Telluride Mountain Club and other organizations are hosting a hiking and biking event that will give participants the opportunity to join others who love Colorado's public lands.

Friday through Sunday (September 29-October 1) is the Dolores River Restoration and Tamarisk Removal near Gateway.

On Saturday (September 30), all federal public lands and many Colorado State parks will offer free admission. The Grand Mesa Nordic Council is holding a trail work day on the Grand Mesa. Volunteers will be installing new signs and preparing the Nordic trail for the season.