All Americans should have access to the same opportunities to enjoy public lands
Public lands belong to you, no matter your race, income or zip code. From local parks to big, wild landscapes, you deserve to enjoy them to the fullest.
But we recognize that there are lots of barriers that might prevent people from experiencing the benefits of public lands. That is why we are working to address some of the biggest physical and social obstacles. This work includes organizing shuttle-buses that help low-income and public transportation-dependent communities access hiking trails; supporting language- and gender-inclusivity in park facilities; advocating for local, state and federal policies that protect and promote open space; and training the advocates of the future in the best ways to protect the wild places in their own backyards.
Factors like lack of access to transportation mean many people are being left out of public lands or discouraged from enjoying them. This disproportionately affects people of color and those in low-income areas. Addressing those issues will help make communities happier, healthier and more connected with nature, in addition to inspiring more people to care for wild places.
Explore places we work on this issue
What we're doing
-
Organizing public transportation
In urban areas, accessing parks and open spaces can be a challenge. To help address this, we partner with local governments and organizations on “Transit to Trail” programs that help people who are dependent on public transportation enjoy nature. These efforts also help people who want to become less reliant on their cars.
-
Investing in parks
We work with state and local interests to drive public investment in parks, trails and other projects, including through ballot initiatives, bond measures and direct work with officials.
-
Encouraging young leaders
We train and support young conservationists, particularly within low-income communities of color, in order to help develop the next generation of advocates. In Southern California, our Nature for All Leadership Academy is helping to equip young people with skills they need to be civically engaged and protect public lands. Efforts are underway to replicate this successful model elsewhere.
What you can do
Join our WildAlert list for opportunities to tell elected officials that our wildlands deserve protection.
