As the government shutdown stretches into its second day, the National Park Service (NPS), part of the Interior Department, has announced its operational plans. Late Tuesday evening, the NPS detailed how the shutdown will affect its workforce and the accessibility of the nation’s treasured parks.
According to the NPS, nearly 9,300 of its 14,500 employees will be furloughed during this period. Despite the significant reduction in staff, the agency assures the public that many areas within the parks will remain open for visitors. “Park roads, lookouts, trails, and open-air memorials will generally remain accessible to visitors,” the plan states.
The NPS has developed a clear distinction in its operational approach based on whether parks collect entrance fees under the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act. Approximately 100 out of the 400 parks in the National Parks system charge fees. For those parks with accessible areas that do charge fees, available funds will be utilized to maintain essential visitor services. This includes ensuring the upkeep of restrooms and sanitation, trash collection, road maintenance, campground operations, law enforcement, and emergency services. Additionally, staffing at entrance gates will remain in place as needed to provide critical safety information.
In cases where parks with accessible areas do not charge fees, the NPS may resort to using regional or national fees, contingent upon approval from the director of the service, to uphold some level of operation.
Conversely, parks that do not have accessible areas will close entirely during the shutdown. The NPS has made it clear that staffing will be minimal, resulting in “[n]o visitor services will be provided.” This means that the service will not be issuing permits, conducting educational programs, collecting trash, operating restrooms, or maintaining roads and walkways, including snow removal and ice melting efforts. “As a general rule, if a facility or area is locked or secured during non-business hours (buildings, gated parking lots, etc.), it should be locked or secured for the duration of the shutdown,” the NPS plan advises.
In an effort to mitigate the impact of the shutdown, the NPS also mentions that parks can enter into agreements with state and local governments, as well as third parties, to accept donations aimed at funding the full operation of individual park units or specified services.
As the situation continues to evolve, the NPS remains committed to providing the public with up-to-date information regarding park accessibility and visitor services during this challenging time.
