In brief
In a letter to Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, 40 former national park superintendents emphasized that keeping parks open during a government shutdown endangers visitors and damages natural resources. They highlighted the ongoing reduction in park staff and maintenance to support their plea for closures in times of funding shortages. The letter advocates for prioritizing both environmental conservation and visitor safety, calling on the administration to rethink its existing policies regarding park accessibility during funding crises.
WASHINGTON (AP) — A coalition of former national park superintendents is urging the Trump administration to close national parks in the event of a government shutdown. In a letter addressed to Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, they argue that past experiences with open parks during previous shutdowns have led to significant issues, including vandalism, wildlife habitat destruction, and potential dangers for visitors.
The former superintendents pointed out that the current strain on park resources is exacerbated by a 24% reduction in staff and deep budget cuts. They referenced a secretary order issued by Burgum that mandates parks remain open, which they claim has resulted in a neglect of essential services such as trash collection and maintenance.
“Leaving parks even partially open to the public during a shutdown with minimal — or no — park staffing is reckless and puts both visitors and park resources at risk,” the letter states, emphasizing the need for sufficient staffing to ensure safety and proper management.
The former leaders highlighted the vital roles that National Park Service employees play in maintaining the parks, from conducting routine maintenance to offering guided tours and educational programs. The ongoing management of long-term preservation projects and research also risks being jeopardized during funding shortages.
This advocacy was organized by the Coalition to Protect America’s National Parks and the Association of National Park Rangers. As of yet, the Interior Department and National Park Service have not responded to commentary requests regarding this pressing issue.
