WHEREAS, Virginia's public lands and waters provide important natural resources, wildlife habitat, and opportunities for outdoor recreation; and

 

WHEREAS, Virginia is home to 44 state parks, 50 wildlife management areas, 26 state forests, and 69 natural area preserves, as well as national parks, battlefields, wildlife refuges, and historic sites that provide opportunities to experience the Commonwealth's natural and cultural resources; and

 

WHEREAS, Virginia's public lands offer opportunities for hiking, biking, camping, hunting, fishing, paddling, horseback riding, boating, and other outdoor activities; and

 

WHEREAS, during Public Lands Month and throughout the year, Virginians are encouraged to explore, enjoy, and help protect the Commonwealth's diverse landscapes and outdoor resources;

 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Abigail D. Spanberger, Governor, do hereby recognize September 2026 as VIRGINIA PUBLIC LANDS MONTH in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.