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Oregon/Washington Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is looking for volunteers to participate in the 16th annual National Public Lands Day on Saturday, September 26, 2009. In what has become the largest volunteer hands-on effort of its kind in the country, participants will come together to lend a hand to the very lands they use to hike, bike, climb, fish, swim, explore, picnic, or just plain relax. Individuals, families, and community groups of all ages are encouraged to come together to give something back to their public lands.T-shirts, lunches, and environmental education activities will be provided for the volunteers at each of the project sites. All tools, safety equipment, and materials needed for the projects will be furnished by the BLM. “We are calling on volunteers to help restore, beautify, and improve the habitats and recreation areas that we all benefit from and enjoy," said Ed Shepard, BLM State Director. "The BLM is committed to promoting stewardship and increasing volunteer opportunities for the public," continued Shepard.Volunteers at Federal sites will not only receive free admission on the day of the event, but also a coupon to return for a "fee-free" day any time in the next year at any site managed by the BLM, National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, or U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Volunteers range from Girl Scouts and senior citizens to corporate executives and Members of Congress -- they all have one thing in common: enjoyment and appreciation for our public lands. Please note that some events may occur before September 26, due a conflict or another overlapping event. A complete listing of BLM events is attached. In addition, volunteers are encouraged to visit publiclandsday.com or blm.gov/or for complete information on events planned near you.