Tomorrow is National Public Lands Day—a chance to celebrate the places that hold so many of our memories and to thank the people who care for them.

Across Wisconsin, more than 65 Friends groups support our state parks, trails, forests, and recreation areas. Volunteers care for trails, bring events and educational programs to life, welcome visitors, and speak up for the places we share. To every Friend who gives their time and energy: Thank you.

And to everyone who supports Friends of Wisconsin State Parks—whether you’ve attended an event, shared a message, read an email, donated, or encouraged someone to explore a new place—thank you. Every act of support helps this community grow.

This year’s National Public Lands Day comes at a challenging time for conservation funding. That makes your care and your voice especially meaningful. Our latest blog reflects on that challenge, celebrates the work of Friends across the state, and reminds us why we must keep showing up for public lands every day.