As national parks gear up for another hectic year, recent job cuts are leaving staff and visitors uncertain. Approximately 1,000 National Park Service (NPS) workers were let go last week, some of whom were experienced professionals on probationary terms.
Activists predict the cuts will have long-term implications for park management and visitor experiences.
Kristen Brengel of the National Parks Conservation Association described the situation as “alarming,” saying that even before these layoffs, the NPS workforce already declined 20% since 2010.
Visitors will probably experience the impact in terms of fewer rangers, longer waiting lines, fewer park services, and less maintenance on trails. Some campgrounds will close, and critical personnel such as wastewater operators and wildlife biologists are included among those affected.
“Loss of experience is just devastating,” Philip Francis, a retired park superintendent, said. “If there’s an emergency—whether it’s a missing hiker, a fire, or a medical emergency—there simply won’t be enough hands to react fast.”
The job cuts are a result of a federal reduction in force mandated by the Trump administration. While 5,000 seasonal employees will be brought in, experts argue they won’t make up for the lost expertise.
Park lovers are urged to be patient, show kindness to remaining staff, and contact lawmakers to voice their concerns. “A simple ‘thank you’ can go a long way,” Francis added.