Carl Garner Federal Lands Cleanup Day
Today is a great reminder that we all need to cleanup our parks, waterways, and facilities on federal lands.
Carl Garner Federal Lands Cleanup Day is an annual United States observance that falls on the first Saturday after Labor Day.
Historically, the observance was established in 1985 and used to be known as the Federal Lands National Cleanup Day. The founder of this holiday, Carl Garner, who was an engineer, organized the clean up of the areas around his place of work, Greers Ferry Lake, by local citizens. His program became nationally acclaimed and received awards, including the Keep America Beautiful Award.
On Carl Garner Federal Lands Cleanup Day, you will find various activities, ceremonies and programs taking place in your neighborhood or city.
As Leaf Explorers, we know how important it is to preserve the beauty and safety of these natural areas, increase our family and friends’ sense of ownership and community pride in these spaces, and reduce the amount of litter along the federal lands.
We need to be friendly stewards of the environment by ensuring rivers, lakes, and green park spaces are free of litter bugs and are safe places for everyone to enjoy.
Ask your parent or guardian to help you find a nearby celebration in your neighborhood or city. Great ways to participate in this special day include picking up litter and garbage with your family, going on an outdoor adventure, and playing in a beautiful, natural space.