Think of the benefits of protecting working forests, which maintain the trees that are a natural defense against climate change while also allowing for more public access to hiking trails while also boosting the local economy.

And securing farmland provides more food security for metropolitan regions while creating new opportunities for the next generation of farmers.

What constitutes your perfect day enjoying nature?

Kevin from Florida: A perfect day would be without any clock or computers and hiking in areas like forests, near a lake or the beach, and seeing wildlife of all kinds. Visiting Yellowstone National Park, which I did in 2020, was a life goal; now I’m bucket-listing for more!

George from Virginia: The perfect day enjoying the outdoors begins at a trailhead in Shenandoah National Park with my running friends. We run up and along the ridges and finish with a cool soak in a creek. On the way back home in Northern Virginia, I meet my family at a winery or brewery with good drinks and great views.

What about the natural world most inspires your gratitude?

George & Tomi from Tennessee: We especially appreciate that, if not ruined by humankind, its natural systems will cleanse the water, replenish the air, and dispense the sun’s energy so that we have seasons and a climate we can depend on.

George from Virginia: I’m most grateful to nature for being a sanctuary from the hustle-and-bustle of my daily life. It reminds me of what is most important in life. In return, I seek to understand how it exists and what it needs to thrive.

What matters most to you about protecting forests?

Deb from Illinois: Woodlands provide critical habitat for precious species of flora and fauna, including wildflowers like shooting stars and columbine, viburnum and hazelnut shrubs, bats, pileated woodpeckers, flycatchers and wood ducks just to name a few.

George & Tomi from Tennessee: Forests are a major convertor of carbon dioxide into oxygen; removing CO2 from the atmosphere makes them a major player in fighting climate change. We chose to support The Conservation Fund because of their work protecting forests and restoring woodlands to some of our favorite places.

What compels you to give to The Conservation Fund?

Deb from Illinois: I can make a positive difference throughout the entire 50 states by supporting The Conservation Fund, and I will continue to do so. From wetlands in Wisconsin, caves in South Dakota, to a ranch in Hawaii — the list of the Fund’s projects that benefit habitat and humans in the United States is just about endless because, as their mission states, they create innovative conservation solutions.

Kevin from Florida: I’m amazed by the scope and efforts of the Fund, the energy and focus of the teams (both local and national), and I’m honored to support in my small way. I have an especially deep desire and pride for “going all in on the home team” of Florida, and to be responsible to do my part.