[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 42, Number 21 (Monday, May 29, 2006)]
[Page 1003]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 8023--Great Outdoors Month, 2006

May 23, 2006

By the President of the United States

of America

A Proclamation

    Great Outdoors Month is an opportunity to celebrate and experience 
America's natural splendor and renew our commitment to conserve our air, 
water, and land. During this month, we also honor the dedicated men and 
women who volunteer to help protect our natural resources.
    Americans live amid many wonders of nature. Our Nation's varied 
landscapes include sandy beaches, expansive forests, emerald waters, and 
towering mountains. Through biking, swimming, skiing, hiking, and many 
other activities, Americans are enjoying our country's magnificent 
scenery and the healthy benefits of outdoor recreation.
    To ensure that our natural heritage remains a source of pride for 
all our citizens, my Administration is committed to conserving America's 
public lands and natural resources and pursuing environmentally 
responsible initiatives. We are working to accelerate research into 
cleaner sources of energy, protect our water sources, and encourage the 
use of hybrid cars. We have put in place a series of clean air 
regulations that will help us to meet air quality standards. Through 
efforts like these, we will continue our Nation's economic growth and 
protect the environment.
    Our citizens play an important role in protecting our natural 
spaces. Throughout our country, Americans are volunteering in their 
communities for environmental education programs, local parks, nature 
conservancies, and other stewardship opportunities. These devoted 
individuals are working to maintain park trails, restore wildlife 
habitats, plant trees, and clear overgrowth. I appreciate these 
volunteers for their efforts to keep America beautiful, and I encourage 
all Americans to demonstrate good stewardship and an appreciation for 
the outdoors. Individuals interested in volunteering can visit the 
Department of the Interior's Take Pride in America website at 
takepride.gov.
    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 2006 as Great 
Outdoors Month. I call on all Americans to observe this month with 
appropriate programs and activities and to spend time enjoying the 
outdoors.
    In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-third 
day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand six, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and 
thirtieth.
                                                George W. Bush

[Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:45 a.m., May 25, 2006]

Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on May 26.