WASHINGTON — A coalition of 40 former national park superintendents is urging the Trump administration to close national parks to visitors during any impending government shutdown to safeguard both the parks and their guests.

In a letter addressed to Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, the former superintendents stressed that previous shutdowns where parks remained open witnessed incidents of vandalism, habitat destruction, and heightened risks for visitors. They believe that current staffing and budget cuts — with a 24% reduction in personnel — only heighten these dangers.

The letter emphasizes that a recent secretarial order that mandates the parks remain open during shutdowns has resulted in neglect of essential maintenance activities such as trash collection and safety protocols, risking both visitors and park resources.

“National parks don’t run themselves. It is hardworking National Park Service employees that keep them safe, clean and accessible,” they stated. They argue that with inadequate staffing, maintaining visitor safety becomes nearly impossible.

As the stewards of these national treasures, the former officials are calling for prioritizing the conservation of these landscapes and the safety of those who wish to enjoy them. They warn that unless there is sufficient staff present to ensure safety measures, parks should not be accessible to the public.

Moreover, they highlight that park staff are responsible for not just maintenance, but also education about engaging with nature and guided tours that uphold the nation’s historical narratives. They fear that a shutdown would jeopardize vital long-term projects and research, impacting the parks' overall preservation efforts.

The letter was organized by the Coalition to Protect America’s National Parks along with the Association of National Park Rangers, revealing a critical perspective on the potential consequences of allowing parks to remain open in a time of government austerity.

The Interior Department and the National Park Service have not yet responded to requests for comments regarding this pressing issue.