WASHINGTON (AP) — A group of former national park superintendents is calling on the Trump administration to close national parks if a government shutdown occurs.
In a letter sent to Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, the 40 former officials highlighted the dangers associated with keeping parks open during past shutdowns, including vandalism, destruction of wildlife habitats, and risk to visitor safety. They argue that current park operations are already strained due to a 24% reduction in workforce and severe budget cuts.
The former superintendents criticized a secretarial order by Burgum that directs parks to remain open, leading to neglected maintenance work such as trash collection. They contend that having parks partially open to the public during a shutdown with minimal staffing is irresponsible and dangerous.
“National parks don’t run themselves. It is hardworking National Park Service employees that keep them safe, clean and accessible,’' they emphasized in their letter. The former officials urged the administration to ensure a balance of conservation and visitor safety, stating, “If sufficient staff aren’t there, visitors shouldn’t be either.’'
The letter was organized by the Coalition to Protect America’s National Parks and the Association of National Park Rangers. Both organizations highlight the consequences of a potential shutdown and its impact on ongoing park operations, educational programs, and research projects.
The Interior Department and the National Park Service did not respond immediately to a request for comment.
