science — environmental-science

Reductions in workforce lead to fewer guided tours and reduced operating hours at National Park Service locations

Decline in visitor services at 70 national parks indicated by data from the National Park Service, including reduced hours for visitor centers.

, and Administrator

2025 September 11 . 3:21 PM

1 min read

Reduced workforce leads to less frequent tours and limited operating hours at National Park Service... — Reduced workforce leads to less frequent tours and limited operating hours at National Park Service locations

Reductions in workforce lead to fewer guided tours and reduced operating hours at National Park Service locations

In a stark warning, Theresa Pierno, the president and CEO of the National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA), has accused the authorities of creating a recipe for disaster in the National Park Service.

Pierno, who has gained prominence for her vocal criticism of staffing cuts and operational issues in national parks across the U.S., has pointed towards gutting staff, freezing seasonal hiring, and the push-out of experienced rangers as the root causes of the current crisis.

"The crisis we are facing in our national parks was predictable and preventable," Pierno stated emphatically.

The crisis, which has been making headlines, has been attributed to a myriad of operational issues, including staff shortages, maintenance backlogs, and a decline in visitor services. These problems, according to Pierno, are a direct result of the decisions made by the authorities.

"The lack of seasonal hiring and the push-out of experienced rangers have left our parks understaffed and ill-equipped to handle the influx of visitors," Pierno explained. "This, in turn, has led to a decline in visitor services and a backlog of maintenance work."

Pierno's warnings have not fallen on deaf ears. The National Park Service has acknowledged the issues and has pledged to address them. However, with the upcoming season expected to bring even more visitors, the question remains: Will the necessary measures be taken in time to prevent further deterioration?

Only time will tell, but one thing is clear: The issues facing our national parks are not insurmountable, and with the right actions, they can be addressed effectively. As Pierno so eloquently put it, "The crisis we are facing is a wake-up call. It's time for us to prioritise the protection and preservation of our national parks for future generations."