(Phoenix) – National Public Lands Day, the only nationwide celebration of public lands, is a day that brings awareness to open space and thanks the many people for their support and hard work, including volunteers, land agencies, and outdoor-minded businesses.

Now in its 13th year, the event is the largest annual volunteer hands-on restoration activity of its kind. It brings together thousands of volunteers from coast-to-coast to refurbish and restore the lands and facilities Americans use for recreation, education, and just plain enjoyment.

Lake Pleasant Regional Park is seeking dedicated volunteers to participate in the Protect Our Natural Resources adoption program on Saturday, September 30th which will be kicked off on National Public Lands Day. The concept of the program is similar to the Department of Transportations Adopt-A-Highway campaign as it seeks out families and individuals who take pride in the community and are willing to go the extra mile to achieve clean and beautiful public lands for everyone.

Volunteers will focus initial efforts on those areas in greatest need and will be provided the opportunity to adopt-a-shoreline, cove or trail. This is a perfect opportunity for individuals, businesses, school and community groups who can dedicate one day per month to help maintain the park and protect the natural resources.

All volunteers will receive free entrance to the park from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m., water, snacks and trash bags on September 30th. Volunteers should wear light clothing, comfortable closed-toed shoes with support, hats and bring plenty of sunscreen. Lake Pleasant Regional Park is located at 41835 N. Castle Hot Springs Road which is 15 miles west of I-17 just north of the Carefree Highway. For more information, contact the park directly at (602) 372-7460 ext. 200, or visit www.maricopa.gov/parks/lake_pleasant/.

## 30 ##