Volunteers across America will celebrate National Public Lands Day on Saturday, September 27 by participating in projects that benefit our shared heritage. Superintendent Curt Sauer invites local community residents and park visitors to “Get Down and Dirty for America” by joining park staff to work on Public Lands Day projects at Joshua Tree National Park.

Participating volunteers will receive a coupon good for a “fee-free” day at national parks and other federal agency sites. Entrance fees for all park visitors will be waived on September 27 at Joshua Tree National Park, other National Park Service areas, and other federal recreation sites.

Those wishing to volunteer at Joshua Tree National Park should come prepared with water, snacks, sunscreen, hats, gloves, boots, and long pants. Please note the meeting place and time listed in the project descriptions below.

Vertical Mulching
This project involves gathering dead vegetation, digging holes, and "planting" along the reconstructed Keys View Road. Volunteers must possess the ability to bend and carry dead plant material. Project participants will meet at the Cap Rock parking area at 8:30 a.m.

Trash Removal
Volunteers will pick up trash, place it in bags, and carry the bags to a nearby collection center. Project participants will meet at the Oasis Visitor Center at 8:30 a.m.

Campground Grooming
This project involves shoveling and raking campsites to level them, and removing trash. Participants will meet at the Oasis Visitor Center at 8:30 a.m.

“Last year, hundreds of park volunteers contributed over 28,000 hours of sweat equity to help us take care of their local national park,” noted Superintendent Sauer. “We honor the work of our many volunteers and recognize the value of their service to Joshua Tree National Park.”

For further information about Public Lands Day activities at Joshua Tree National Park, contact Volunteer Coordinator Laureen Lentz at 760-367-5524.