newsgathers

A government shutdown in the U.S. can significantly impact national parks and the dedicated rangers who protect them. With non-essential government personnel furloughed and others, including air traffic controllers and national park staff, working without compensation, concerns about the safety and preservation of these natural treasures grow. Over 9,000 national park employees are affected, exacerbating existing staffing shortages that predate the current situation. For instance, the National Parks Conservation Association reported a 24% reduction in permanent staff since President Donald Trump's initial term, coupled with a decline in seasonal hires, creating an unsustainable operational gap.

In response to these challenges, several actions can be taken to support park rangers. One crucial measure involves advocating for the complete closure of national parks during a shutdown. Numerous former park supervisors have urged the Secretary of the Interior to implement closures, highlighting risks to irreplaceable park features and visitor safety. Past shutdowns, such as the one in 2018-2019, witnessed significant damage to parks like Joshua Tree and Big Bend due to insufficient oversight. Conversely, the 2013 shutdown under Barack Obama saw all national parks closed, preventing similar incidents. The National Parks Conservation Association provides resources for individuals to join calls for park closures, acknowledging that while it may seem counterintuitive to take rangers off the job, they are currently working without pay, making their efforts to protect parks an uncompensated struggle.

Another vital way to help is by modifying visitation habits and acting as responsible stewards of the environment. Visiting national parks during a shutdown, even when entry fees are waived, can place undue stress on the minimal staff present and the natural environment. If visiting is unavoidable, it is imperative to adhere strictly to all posted regulations, including respecting closed trails and sections, refraining from lighting unauthorized fires, and meticulously disposing of all waste. Furthermore, showing understanding and refraining from complaining to the rangers on duty can significantly alleviate their burden. For those seeking a direct financial impact, donating to organizations such as the Association of National Park Rangers (ANPR) or the National Park Foundation provides critical support. The ANPR's Ranger Emergency Relief Fund assists rangers affected by job losses or natural disasters, while the National Park Foundation offers various donation options to bolster park services and ranger welfare. Supporting these organizations or local park-affiliated nonprofits offers a tangible way to contribute to the well-being of the parks and their custodians.

In times of governmental instability, the preservation of our national parks and the welfare of their rangers become a shared responsibility. By advocating for responsible management, demonstrating environmental stewardship, and offering financial aid, individuals can actively contribute to safeguarding these invaluable natural resources and supporting the dedicated professionals who care for them. This collective effort ensures that our national parks remain protected and accessible for future generations, reflecting a commitment to conservation and community support.