From Trash Pickup To Ranger Food Banks, Volunteers Step Up For National Parks Amid Government Shutdown

From Trash Pickup To Ranger Food Banks, Volunteers Step Up For National Parks Amid Government Shutdown

From Trash Pickup To Ranger Food Banks, Volunteers Step Up For National Parks Amid Government Shutdown During a government shutdown, national park sites face major operational challenges, with a majority of staff furloughed, services interrupted, and visitors left with fewer (or lower quality) amenities. These closures also impact nearby communities and local economies, even if guests continue visiting national park attractions. “A government shutdown is never a good thing for national parks,”  Lincoln Larson, an associate professor of parks, recreation, and tourism management at North Carolina State University, said. “Some parks are forced to close due to staffing constraints. Those that remain open often operate at limited capacity, closing visitor centers, campgrounds, and other unique amenities that enhance the visitor experience. If you visit a national park during a shutdown, don’t expect the same type of trip.” In the current government shutdown — which has been in place since Octo…