🚨 The US government shutdown is in full swing, leaving national parks open but operating on a shoestring budget. From visitor centers to restrooms, services have been slashed across the country.
Reporting from Florida’s Everglades National Park, CGTN’s Nitza Soledad Perez shows how the shutdown has played out on the ground. Trails are still open, but with fewer rangers on duty, trash removal is spotty and maintenance delays are piling up.
Park advocates warn that reduced staffing could lead to lasting damage. Without regular upkeep, sensitive ecosystems risk erosion, invasive species could spread, and historic sites may suffer neglect. Meanwhile, communities relying on park tourism face economic uncertainty as visitors rethink their plans. 😕
For travelers eager to explore, here are a few tips:
- Check the official park website for the latest updates.
- Pack out all your trash and practice Leave No Trace.
- Support nearby shops and restaurants to help local economies stay afloat.
As the shutdown drags on, the fate of America’s natural treasures and the towns that depend on them hangs in the balance. 🌿
Reference(s):
National Parks see reduced services during US government shutdown
cgtn.com
