On February 14, the Trump administration fired approximately 1,000 employees of the National Park Service in an effort to reduce the size of the federal government.
Two U.S District judges ruled on March 13 that fired probationary workers be reinstated at several federal agencies. While some fired employees received word that they would return and be put on administrative leave, others were still waiting to hear back.
Kate Severson said, “The deadline was yesterday, at 1 p.m. according to the judge’s temporary restraining order. They were supposed to reinstate us and let us know, and they haven’t.” stated Severson in an article published by CBS News on March 18th.
The firing of National Park Service staff puts our parks at risk as they play an essential role in protecting biodiversity, which is vital for maintaining healthy ecosystems and key habitats. By managing resources effectively, they ensure that various species can thrive and that the natural habitats are preserved for future generations.
Ms. Morales, a biology teacher at BASE High School speaks on her view on the matter. “Well, I think that it’s a very negative situation. I mean, not only are you taking people out of work , but you are also minimizing the access to parks for the people in the community. So by them closing the parks, the workers are unemployed as well.’’
National parks provide valuable opportunities for outdoor recreation and education, fostering a deep appreciation for the natural world. These protected areas allow visitors to experience and learn about ecosystems that are often under threat and instill a sense of responsibility toward preserving these environments.
Moreover, tourism in national parks significantly boosts local economies by creating jobs, supporting small businesses, and promoting sustainable practices. When visitors explore the breathtaking landscapes and unique attractions of these parks, they contribute to the financial well-being of surrounding communities. This economic support is essential for funding conservation initiatives, park maintenance, and environmental education programs, ensuring that natural resources are preserved for future generations.
Ms. Otte, a member of the Brooklyn Botanical Garden, says “National parks are important to the environment because they protect a lot of our natural land and a lot of our natural resources that might otherwise be developed. So we really need all of the forests and the old trees that we can get. The older the tree, the more carbon that they take out of the atmosphere. So some of our national parks have some of the oldest trees in the country, and it’s really important that we protect those areas so that we can try to mitigate climate change or try to slow down climate change.”
By appreciating and understanding the value of national parks, we can collectively advocate for their protection and sustainability.
