WASHINGTON (AP) — A coalition of former national park superintendents is urging the Trump administration to shut down national parks to public access in the event of a government shutdown. They argue that previous shutdowns without park closures have resulted in vandalism, destruction of wildlife habitats, and posed risks to visitors.
In a letter addressed to Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, the group of 40 former superintendents expressed that current staffing levels, reduced by 24% alongside severe budget cuts, leave the parks vulnerable. They noted that under a recent directive by Burgum to keep parks accessible, routine maintenance has been neglected, compromising park safety and cleanliness.
“Leaving parks even partially open during a shutdown with minimal staffing is reckless and puts both visitors and park resources at risk,” the superintendents wrote. They stressed the essential role that National Park Service employees play in maintaining the safety and accessibility of these natural treasures.
The letter was mobilized by the Coalition to Protect America’s National Parks and the Association of National Park Rangers. They maintain that without sufficient staff, visitors should not be allowed in parks.
“National parks don’t run themselves,” they said. “As stewards of these American treasures, we urge you to prioritize conservation and visitor safety and protect our national parks during a potential shutdown, and into the future.”
The former superintendents warned that essential park operations—ranging from building maintenance to educational programs—could suffer, compromising both visitor safety and the integrity of the parks. The Interior Department and the National Park Service have yet to respond to requests for comments regarding this issue.
