Get involved in National Public Lands Day at Hays Nature Preserve

Published on August 22, 2025

People across the country come together each September to celebrate National Public Lands Day — the largest single-day volunteer event for public lands in the United States. It’s a day to get outside and give back to or enjoy green spaces that bring us joy. This year, on Saturday, September 27, Hays Nature Preserve is joining the celebration with a Birding 101 event with Tennessee Valley Audubon.

Meet at the Hays natural playground pavilion. Bring binoculars if you have them, hydration, and good closed toe shoe for trail walking. Learn about bird watching and what are the best birds to spot in the North Alabama area.

All ages are welcome, but registration is required and limited. Bird enthusiasts can register here for the 7:30 a.m. or 8:30 a.m. session.

Remember as you enjoy Huntsville’s green spaces on National Public Lands Day, they need love year-round. There are many ways to support nature in your area:

• Volunteer regularly: From trail maintenance to litter clean-up, many spaces welcome ongoing volunteer help. Some great ways to get involved in Huntsville include joining a cleanup, starting an Adopt-A-Spot at a local park or signing up for the upcoming Invasive Plant Removal Project at Hays Nature Preserve.
• Leave No Trace: Respect trails, wildlife, and other visitors by packing out everything you bring in.
• Advocate and share: Encourage friends, family and local leaders to support funding and protection for public lands.

Public lands like Hays Nature Preserve are more than beautiful places to explore — they’re living classrooms, havens for wildlife like birds and spaces where communities connect with nature. By giving back, we ensure these spaces remain healthy to be enjoyed on National Public Lands Day and every day.