Federal Shutdown Strains Michigan’s National Parks
The ongoing federal government shutdown is taking a toll on Michigan’s national parks, affecting both operations and visitor experiences. A lack of funding has led to staff layoffs and project delays, creating uncertainty for employees and visitors alike.
Tom Irvine, executive director of the National Parks of Lake Superior Foundation, highlighted that a significant number of park staff have been furloughed, with only essential law enforcement and maintenance personnel remaining on duty. “I hate to say at your own risk, because that makes it sound dangerous,” Irvine remarked regarding visitor access. “But they’ll need to be self-sufficient, because there’s not going to be a plethora of rangers available to answer questions or provide directions.” Public buildings have been closed since the shutdown began on October 1, leaving visitors to explore the natural areas independently.
The shutdown has also left park employees facing high levels of stress due to the uncertainty surrounding their jobs and pay. Irvine noted, “No one does well with the uncertainty of their livelihood, not getting paid, or not knowing when or if they’ll even be going back.”
The National Parks Lake Superior Foundation (NPLSF), which supports five national parks, finds itself in a challenging position. “Oftentimes we fill the voids in funding that federal resources don’t cover,” Irvine explained. The foundation typically engages in maintenance and preservation projects during the fall, but this year, their plans have been disrupted. “The fall is typically busy, with planning ahead and finishing projects that didn’t get done over the summer, and really all that’s been wiped out. If it didn’t get done, it’s not getting done,” Irvine stated.
Despite having contingency plans for such shutdowns, this one is particularly challenging due to pre-existing hiring freezes and workforce reductions. However, Irvine mentioned the parks are receiving a surge of public support, with individuals and private foundations stepping up. “National Parks are really near and dear to just about everyone in this country, and concerns about their long-term viability really affects people.”
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