Government Shutdown Impacts National Parks
The 2018 government shutdown had severe consequences on national parks, including overflowing trash cans, illegal off-road driving, poaching of animals and plants, and theft of artifacts.
As of October 1, the US federal government has shut down, and all "non-essential" federal government work has stopped. Unfortunately, national parks are considered "non-essential" and will be partially affected.
- All 63 national parks will remain partially open.
- Visitors will still have access to roads, trails, and lookouts.
What does this mean for national parks?
Although parks will stay open, this may not be a positive development due to the lack of essential services and maintenance.
Author's summary: Government shutdown harms national parks.