National Public Lands Day Cleanup 2025

Join Us for National Public Lands Day!

Date: September 27, 2025
Time: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location: Meet at Sand Canyon Pueblo to caravan to Big Point.
Sand Canyon Pueblo, 14860 Rd N, Cortez, CO 81323

Southwest Colorado Canyons Alliance and Canyons of the Ancients National Monument invite you to celebrate National Public Lands Day with a hands-on stewardship project. This year, we’ll focus on removing unauthorized fire rings at Big Point to help protect the cultural and natural resources of this special area.

This effort aligns with the BLM’s newly finalized supplementary rules for Canyons of the Ancients National Monument, effective December 16, 2024. These rules are designed to safeguard the Monument’s fragile archaeological and environmental resources. Key changes include prohibiting recreational target shooting, limiting camping in sensitive areas, and requiring permits for resource collection. In areas where campfires are still allowed, fires must be built in fire pans or BLM-provided fire rings only.

As part of this transition, land managers aim to gradually remove all unauthorized fire rings across the Monument. Visitors are encouraged to use fire pans—metal containers with raised edges that prevent damage to the ground—or portable propane fire pits as safer, lower-impact alternatives, especially during fire season. These practices support Leave No Trace principles, ensuring a healthier landscape for future generations.

Learn more here: Federal Register Notice

We’ll meet at Sand Canyon Pueblo at 9:00 AM then caravan to Big Point and wrap up around noon. Light snacks and refreshments will be provided. Please bring leather gloves, sturdy shoes, a hat, sun protection, sunglasses, and plenty of water.

Pre-register here to sign waivers in advance.

Let's work together to keep our public lands pristine and enjoyable for everyone!