[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 40, Number 23 (Monday, June 7, 2004)]
[Page 1015]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 7795--Great Outdoors Month, 2004

 June 4, 2004

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    More than 200 years ago, Captains Meriwether Lewis and William Clark 
embarked upon an expedition to explore uncharted lands and find passage 
across the Rocky Mountains to the Pacific Ocean. During the Captains' 
journey, their Corps of Discovery encountered remarkable landscapes, 
observed wildlife, and traded with American Indians. Two years into his 
experience, Captain Lewis was inspired by the beauty of a waterfall 
along the Missouri River that he called in his journal, ``the grandest 
sight I ever beheld.'' Today, the splendor of the great outdoors 
continues to inspire our citizens, and a love of outdoor recreation 
remains a fundamental part of the American character. By observing Great 
Outdoors Month, we celebrate our commitment to appreciating and 
protecting our natural wealth.
    Outdoor recreation is an ideal way to exercise and enjoy memorable 
experiences with family and friends, and all across our country are 
scenic places that sports and nature enthusiasts can explore and help 
keep beautiful. During Great Outdoors Month and throughout the year, I 
encourage Americans to go camping, fishing, hunting, hiking, bird 
watching, boating, or to participate in other outdoor activities that 
are part of a healthy lifestyle.
    The true strength of our Nation lies in the hearts and souls of our 
citizens, and I urge all Americans not only to visit our parks and 
recreation areas, but also to volunteer their time and talents to help 
maintain the beauty of our environment. Good stewardship of the 
environment is not just a personal responsibility, it is a public value; 
and citizens who lend a hand to local parks and public lands are vital 
to the preservation of our Nation's many special places. Americans can 
take pride in the remarkable progress we continue to make in conserving 
our environment and natural resources.
     Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, President of the United States 
of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution 
and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim June 2004 as Great 
Outdoors Month. I call upon the people of the United States to observe 
this month with appropriate ceremonies and activities and to participate 
in safe and enjoyable outdoor recreation.
     In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this fourth day of 
June, in the year of our Lord two thousand four, and of the Independence 
of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-eighth.
                                                George W. Bush

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 9:36 a.m., June 8, 
2004]

Note: This proclamation will be published in the Federal Register on 
June 9.