National Parks Ordered to Stay Open Despite Severe Staffing Shortages

Interior Secretary Doug Burgum's directive limits local decision-making as parks face operational strain from workforce reductions.

Interior Secretary Doug Burgum issued an order requiring national parks to remain open and accessible, effective immediately, despite significant staffing shortages.
The order mandates park superintendents consult with senior officials before implementing closures or service reductions, limiting local decision-making authority.
Critics, including park advocates and former officials, argue the order jeopardizes visitor safety and adds bureaucratic hurdles without addressing root staffing issues.
The National Park Service has lost approximately 1,500 permanent employees in 2025 due to workforce reductions under the Trump administration, exacerbating operational challenges.
The Department of the Interior has pledged to review park operations and staffing, with a report due within 15 days, but skepticism remains about its ability to resolve systemic issues.