Fewer Rangers, More Risk: Why National Parks Need Support Now

Fewer Rangers, More Risk: How Budget Cuts Threaten National Parks

America’s national parks are more than just breathtaking landscapes—they are vital ecosystems, cultural landmarks, and places where millions of people reconnect with nature every year. But while visitation has skyrocketed, staffing levels have plummeted due to budget cuts, leaving our public lands at risk.

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National Park Visitation Is at an All-Time High, But Staffing Is at an All-Time Low

The numbers tell a troubling story. In 2010, U.S. national parks saw 281 million visitors. Today, that number has surged to 325 million—a 16% increase in visitation. Yet, during this same period, the National Park Service (NPS) workforce has been cut by thousands.

In 2010, NPS employed 21,668 full-time staff members. By 2023, that number had dropped to 18,864—and this was before the most recent wave of layoffs.

The latest cuts have led to the firing of more than 1,000 newly hired National Park Service employees, many of whom were responsible for cleaning, maintaining trails, educating visitors, and keeping parks safe. This workforce reduction means fewer resources to manage the increasing strain on our national parks, putting these treasured spaces at risk.

The Consequences of Park Staff Layoffs

Without enough rangers, conservationists, and maintenance workers, national parks face serious challenges, including:

Increased Safety Risks

Fewer rangers mean slower response times in emergencies, reduced enforcement of park rules, and greater risks for both visitors and wildlife.

More Trash & Pollution

Overflowing trash cans and neglected waste management contribute to pollution, damage to natural habitats, and an increased risk of attracting wildlife to human areas.

Heightened Wildfire Risks

Park employees play a critical role in wildfire prevention by managing controlled burns, clearing fire hazards, and responding to early warning signs. Staffing shortages leave parks vulnerable to devastating wildfires.

 Deteriorating Trails & Facilities

With fewer workers available to maintain trails, roads, and visitor centers, park infrastructure could deteriorate, leading to unsafe conditions and a diminished experience for visitors.

Threats to Wildlife Conservation

Park staff monitor endangered species, track ecosystem changes, and enforce protections against poaching and habitat destruction. Fewer employees mean less oversight of these critical conservation efforts.

“Why Are We Messing With One Thing We All Agree On?”

Among those affected by the layoffs is Nate Vince, Yosemite National Park’s longtime locksmith, who spent years helping to maintain the security and infrastructure of one of the nation’s most beloved parks. Now, like many others, he finds himself out of work due to budget cuts.

Vince questions why national parks—one of the few things that unite Americans across political divides—are being neglected.

"Why are we messing with one thing that most of us agree on in a time when we agree on little—that our parks are special and should not be put at risk?" - Nate Vince

His sentiment reflects a growing concern: national parks have long been a bipartisan issue, valued by people from all backgrounds. They offer a place to disconnect from technology, explore the natural world, and experience the beauty of untouched landscapes. Yet, without proper funding and staffing, their future is uncertain.

What You Can Do to Help

If you care about the future of public lands, here’s how you can take action:

Raise Awareness: Share this information with your community to help spread the word about the importance of protecting national parks.

Contact Your Representatives: Call or write to your elected officials and urge them to prioritize funding for the National Park Service. Public pressure can lead to policy changes.

Support Conservation Organizations: Organizations like the National Parks Conservation Association, Sierra Club, and The Wilderness Society work to advocate for sustainable funding and environmental protections.

Visit Parks Responsibly: Follow Leave No Trace principles, volunteer for park cleanup projects, and respect park staff by following guidelines that help maintain these spaces.

Stay Informed: Sign up for EcoBlvd’s newsletter to receive updates on environmental issues, sustainable living tips, and actions you can take to make a difference.

Protecting Public Lands Is Everyone’s Responsibility

National parks belong to all of us. They are a shared heritage, a sanctuary for wildlife, and a place where generations have gone to experience the beauty of nature. The loss of park employees puts these lands in danger—but together, we can work toward a solution.

By advocating for better funding, supporting park staff, and promoting responsible visitation, we can ensure that our national parks remain protected for future generations.

Join us in standing up for America’s public lands—because once they’re gone, we can’t get them back.