Park rangers warn that treasured national sites are vulnerable
of ConsumerAffairsKey Points:
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A new Trump administration mandate requiresall national parks to remain open, even amid deep staffing cuts and operational strain.
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The order prohibits local closures withouttop-level approval, prompting backlash from conservation groups and park officials.
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Critics warn the directive couldjeopardize visitor safety and park preservationduring whats expected to be a record summer season.
TheTrump administrationhas ordered that allnational parks and historic sites remain open, regardless of staffing shortages or operational challenges a move conservation leaders say puts both visitors and parklands at risk.
The directive, issued Thursday byInterior Secretary Doug Burgum, states that the goal is to keep parks open and accessible for the benefit and enjoyment of the American people. But it also requires that any changes to operating hours or closures beapproved by top Interior officials, removing that authority from on-the-ground park managers.
The timing of the order is raising alarm. Last year, national parks drew a record331 million visitors, and summer is expected to bring even higher foot traffic.
Meanwhile, theNational Park Service (NPS)is grappling with severe staffing shortages after the administrationcut about 1,000 jobsand hundreds more employees took buyouts.
Critics sound alarm
This order is reckless and out of touch, saidKristen Brengel, senior vice president at theNational Parks Conservation Association. theLos Angeles Times reported. Its micromanagement at its worst, creating more red tape when park staff are already dangerously thin and dealing with peak visitation season.
Brengel warned that stripping local officials of their authority to temporarily close parts of parks due toweather, maintenance, or safety concernscould leave visitors vulnerable and park resources unprotected.
TheAssociation of National Park Rangersechoed those concerns. In a recent statement, presidentRick Mossmans aid workers are being systematically robbed of their abilities to meet their mission and protect the land effectively.
Strain on beloved sites
FromYosemitetoJoshua Tree, iconic national parks across the country especially in California are expected to face growing challenges. Reduced staffing levels could meanlonger lines, fewer search and rescue resources, andless maintenance of restrooms and campsitesduring a season of intense visitor demand.
The new mandate, conservation groups argue, risks turning Americas most treasured public lands intoovercrowded and under-supported destinations, undermining the very mission of the National Park Service.
Posted: 2025-04-07 16:16:42
