National Park Service leaders along with representatives from the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, numerous statewide and regional partners in land conservation, and other local leaders marked National Public Lands Day by celebrating ongoing conservation efforts protecting the Blue Ridge Parkway at and around Waterrock Knob.

Five years ago, the Jordans went on a family outing to Millers Pond Park in Rocky Point, North Carolina. It was an easy hike for then four-year-old Ian, whose parents were keen on engaging him with the outdoors. With plenty to explore around the pond, Ian could observe the water, touch the trees, or find critters in the dirt. But it was also here that the Jordans discovered Kids in Parks. Crossing paths with a TRACK Trail sign, they picked up The Need for Trees brochure activity and began adventures that would continue to this day.

Looking around the National Park System, you can adopt a sea turtle nest at Cape Hatteras National Seashore, take in National Park Service Director Chuck Sams' discussion about climate challenges in the National Park System, plan to attend the Denim Ball on the Blue Ridge Parkway, or check out this year's litter of sled dog puppies at Denali National Park.

Work has begun on a $29 million project to replace the Laurel Fork Bridge on the Blue Ridge Parkway at milepost 248.8 in Ashe County, North Carolina. A full park closure to all uses in the immediate vicinity of the bridge is expected to be in place this week. Work is expected to take over two years to complete, with a target completion date of November 2024.