National Public Lands Day on Sept. 24

With about 5.7 million acres of public land to explore, Wisconsin provides numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation to residents and visitors alike. National Public Lands Day, occurring on Sept. 24 this year, is an ideal time to get outside, with cooler autumn temperatures, fall color and events occurring on several public lands across the state. Those interested can also give back to a favorite public land through hands-on volunteer work. Celebrated across the country, National Public Lands Day is a coordinated display of appreciation for the lands that belong to all citizens. For more information about National Public Lands Day and events in Wisconsin, visit publiclandsday.org. Those who want to play a direct role in managing habitat and wildlife on state lands can also sponsor a state wildlife area through the new Adopt a Fish or Wildlife Area program. With more than 200 properties eligible for sponsorship, this program gives sponsors a unique opportunity to enhance fish and wildlife areas through such hands-on work as habitat restoration, invasive species removal, surveys and more. To learn more or apply, visit dnr.wi.gov, keyword “volunteer.”