Overview

• The National Park Service will hire 7,700 seasonal workers this year, an increase from the recent three-year average of 6,350 positions.
• At least 50 permanent jobs are being reinstated after widespread layoffs and rescinded job offers caused public backlash and bipartisan concern.
• Seasonal workers are vital for maintaining park operations and visitor safety during peak months, with over 325 million annual visitors to 433 national sites.
• Advocates warn that the reinstated positions may not fully address operational challenges caused by earlier layoffs and staffing instability.
• Critics cite a lack of clear leadership and planning within the Interior Department, raising concerns about the long-term stability of park staffing.