Arizona Strip District volunteers awarded America the Beautiful passes as part of Freedom 250 initiative

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) recognized several dedicated public lands volunteers this spring. They were honored with America the Beautiful passes to celebrate their service as part of the national Freedom 250 volunteer initiative. The initiative invites the public to take an active role in stewarding the nation’s shared landscapes. 

Every hour volunteers contribute — keeping trails clear, protecting wildlife habitat, reducing litter, and caring for cultural sites — strengthens a legacy of stewardship that future generations will inherit. 

BLM archaeologist Sarah Page works closely with Arizona site steward volunteers and values the passion they bring to caring for cultural resources. 

“I think they care not only about cultural resources, but other natural resources as well,” Page said. With more than two million acres of public lands to monitor, Page values the support. “They provide an extra set of eyes on the ground,” she noted, explaining that steward reports help the BLM respond quickly to vandalism, such as graffiti on petroglyphs or illegal digging. 

Archaeologists piece together stories of past inhabitants — from prehistoric tribes to explorers and pioneers — by studying artifacts and site locations. “Learning about the people who occupied these landscapes helps the entire country understand our past,” Page said. 

For longtime site steward Roger McPeek, who has volunteered since the late 1990s, the work is simply enjoyable. Fellow stewards appreciate his insights on pottery sherds. “I started reading all the publications I could find on ceramics to learn more,” he said. 

Sharron Evans began volunteering with the BLM’s Wild Horse and Burro Program before relocating to the region where the Great Basin, Colorado Plateau, and Mojave Desert meet. Hoping to continue volunteering, she discovered the site steward program. Her love for the outdoors drives her commitment. 

“It’s getting to go into these backcountry places where no one is that are beautiful and extraordinary,” Evans said. She recalls her first site visit during training: “You just have a sense of how people lived. The way they lived so mindfully on the lands… it’s kind of a sacred feeling.” 

For Tim DeBolt, retirement offered a new beginning. After taking an archaeology class at a local university, the Army veteran applied to become a site steward. The resilience of past inhabitants inspires him. “They had to be working 24/7 for their survival,” he said. 

Retired Navy veteran Kristjan Seaquist enjoys the opportunity site stewarding provides to explore new areas, some remote and challenging to reach. “I’ve always enjoyed seeing new things,” he said. He encourages others to get involved. “There are a lot of sites close to town, and you don’t have to make a lot of effort to get to them. I’m usually happy because they’re still in good shape.” 

Former BLM forester Doug Page joined the program to keep learning in retirement. “I was looking for something else to do to get out. It adds meaning to life and I like to learn new things,” he said, reflecting on the tough lives of those who once inhabited these landscapes. 

The work of BLM site stewards directly supports the U.S. Department of the Interior’s mission to conserve and manage the nation’s natural resources and cultural heritage for the benefit and enjoyment of the American people — including honoring trust responsibilities and commitments to American Indian communities.

Ways you can help 

As our nation nears its 250th anniversary, the Bureau of Land Management and other Interior agencies invite you to help protect wildlife, preserve cultural treasures, and keep our trails thriving. Volunteers support BLM in a variety of roles, including: 

• Cultural heritage monitoring 

• Campsite hosting 

• Visitor support and education 

• Habitat restoration and maintenance 

• Leading tours and interpretive programs 

• Litter cleanups 

Volunteers who contribute 250 hours of service qualify to receive an America the Beautiful annual pass. Every hour, every minute and effort matters! To find opportunities near you:

• Visit Volunteer.gov to explore federal volunteer openings.

• Contact your local BLM office or visit BLM.gov to locate an office near you.

• Connect with local partner or friends’ groups who support BLM lands.