Celebrating 25 Years of National Conservation Lands
Honoring and Protecting America’s Treasured Public Lands and Waters
Gold Butte National Monument, NV by Bob Wick, BLM
This year marks the 25th anniversary of the creation of a category of public lands called National Conservation Lands. These are the landscapes between more familiar public lands like national parks and forests that safeguard our clean air and water, support the outdoor recreation economy, sustain the culture of Indigenous peoples, and preserve national treasures rich in culture and natural beauty.
These are the people’s lands and are managed by the Bureau of Land Management.
Photo: Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument, NM by Bob Wick, BLM
Today, National Conservation Lands—906 units spanning more than 38 million acres—continue to provide unparalleled opportunities for personal adventure and connection. They also support ecosystems essential to our healthy water sources, wildlife habitats, and the biodiversity that we need for our very existence.
From breathtaking deserts to wild and scenic rivers and rugged mountain ranges, these landscapes are an enduring gift for future generations.
California Coastal National Monument, CA by Bob Wick, BLM
Join the Celebrations!
As we mark this monumental milestone, we invite you to celebrate with us! Across the country, our Friends Grassroots Network—a coalition of more than 80 community-based organizations—is hosting events, stewardship projects, hikes, and educational programs to honor National Conservation Lands.
The best way to celebrate 25 years of conservation is to be a part of it!
Whether you join a cleanup, attend a guided hike, or support local advocacy efforts, your participation will be fun and help ensure these lands remain protected for generations to come.
Find an event near you and be part of the movement. Together, we can honor the past, celebrate the present, and protect the future of National Conservation Lands.
Upcoming Events
Act Today
As we celebrate this milestone, it’s more important than ever to ensure these public lands stay protected for future generations. Join us in calling on Interior Secretary Burgum and your members of Congress to champion the continued protection and stewardship of National Conservation Lands.
The Power of Community: Our Friends Grassroots Network
The protection and stewardship of the National Conservation Lands wouldn’t be possible without the dedicated efforts of local communities and tribes. Our Friends Grassroots Network plays a vital role in:
- Advocating for strong protections and policies that safeguard these landscapes
- Engaging volunteers in conservation and restoration efforts
- Educating the public about the cultural, ecological, and recreational significance of these lands
- Connecting people to their local public lands through events, partnerships, and hands-on involvement
Get involved—connect with Friends Grassroots Network organizations near you!
Respect. Connect. Protect.
I’m Spokespebble – a nature-loving hunk of million-year-old sedimentary rock and the official voice of the Respect. Connect. Protect. Campaign. I’m here to help you plan ahead, stay safe, and be awesome whenever you visit National Conservation Lands and all public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management.
Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey NCA, ID by Bob Wick, BLM
