July 10th – 16th is National Forests Week. This is a great time to acknowledge, appreciate, and engage with the vital role our national forests play in maintaining ecological balance, offering recreational opportunities, and enriching our lives.
Some facts about the US National Forest System lands
- Hikers will be happy to hear that there are 150,000 miles of hiking trails that run through the National Forest system
- 70% of Americans live within 100 miles of a National Forest.
- There are 40,000 miles of rivers and streams running through National Forests
- There are 193 million acres of National Forest System lands in the United States.
Celebrating this week can involve anything from learning more about our forests to directly contributing to their conservation. Here’s how you can get involved:
1. Donate to the National Forest Foundation.
Working on behalf of the American People, the NFF are highly-active in promoting responsible recreation in the 193 million acres of National Forest lands and connecting more people to these beautiful places that are such a vital and intrinsic part of our life. Click here to learn more
2. Visit a National Forest:
National Forests Week is the perfect excuse to explore these natural treasures. Plan a trip to a forest you’ve never visited before. Using HiiKER to find trails in your local forest, you can go for a hike, set up camp, or just enjoy a peaceful picnic in the midst of nature. This will help you reconnect with the natural world and gain firsthand appreciation for these forested areas.
3. Participate in Forest Conservation Activities:
Many national forests hold special events during this week, such as guided tours, bird-watching excursions, and conservation workshops. Volunteering for cleanup drives or tree-planting activities is another rewarding way to get involved. It’s a tangible contribution to the health and longevity of our forests.
4. Learn and Educate:
Educate yourself and others about the importance of national forests. This could involve reading books, watching documentaries, or attending seminars and webinars. You can also share what you’ve learned with others, spreading awareness through social media or at local community meetings.
5. Advocate for Forest Protection:
Our national forests face many threats, from climate change to deforestation. Use this week as an opportunity to write to your local representatives, urging them to prioritize forest conservation and enact legislation to protect these ecosystems. Celebrate forests by promoting your local forest on social media
National Forests Week is a time for celebration and action. Whether you choose to explore a forest, Donate to the National Forest Foundation, volunteer your time, or learn more about these remarkable ecosystems, you’ll be contributing to a future where our forests continue to thrive and inspire. Happy National Forests Week!
