The Greatest Threat to Our National Parks Isn’t What We Thought

When I gave my TED Talk titled Why Protect National Parks ten years ago, I believed the

biggest threats to their survival were the usual suspects—urban sprawl creeping ever closer, reckless overuse, shrinking budgets, and the slow march of climate change. The solution seemed clear: keep the public engaged, remind people why these places matter, and keep fighting the good fight.

But I never imagined the biggest threat wouldn’t come from outside forces—but from the president himself.

A Storm Brewing Over Public Lands

In a blitz of executive orders, President Trump has taken a wrecking ball to the very foundations of our national parks. Thousands of park rangers fired. Budgets frozen. Protections for forests and wildlife gutted. Environmental safeguards rolled back. Each move may seem like just another bureaucratic shuffle, but together, they spell disaster for America’s most treasured landscapes.

The short-term fallout? A summer of chaos—park closures, mismanagement, and deep frustration for millions of visitors. The long-term risk? A national park system so weakened that it’s ripe for the taking. The same forces that have long eyed our public lands for private gain—real estate developers, fossil fuel companies, and politicians eager to hand over control to the states—now have an open door.

The Greatest Crisis Our Parks Have Ever Faced

Let’s be blunt—America’s national parks face an existential crisis. Not even World War I, the Great Depression, or World War II posed such a direct threat to their survival. During those dark times, we rallied to protect these lands, recognizing them as part of our national identity. With the stroke of a pen, Trump is unraveling over a century of conservation progress.

This isn’t just bad policy—it’s a fundamental assault on the very idea of public lands. National parks belong to all Americans, not just those with the deepest pockets or the best political connections.

What We Can Do

The good news? These parks have survived threats before—and they can again. But only if we step up.

• Stay informed – Policies can change overnight, but awareness is the first step in fighting back.
• Make your voice heard – Contact your representatives, support conservation groups, and demand accountability.
• Make your voice heard part 2: Write your local papers expressing your support for national parks, public lands, and opposition to Trump's policies.
• Spread the word: Post your support for parks on social media, and encourage your friends and colleagues to get involved.
• Amplify your impact: Join and support non-profits defending our public domain.
• Visit and support our parks – Show the world that these places matter as protected landscapes and as vital pieces of our national heritage.

The fight for our national parks isn’t over. But if we don’t act now, we may soon find ourselves mourning their loss.

Are we really willing to let that happen?

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Meet Sean Smith, the master of conservation, adventure, and storytelling! This award-winning conservationist and former National Park Ranger has trekked through the wilderness of Yellowstone, Glacier, and the North Cascades, keeping nature safe with his trusty ranger hat and boots. But Sean's talents don't stop there. He's a TEDx speaker and even a private pilot, soaring through the skies like a bald eagle on a mission.

But amidst all these adventures, Sean's heart beats for storytelling. He's been spinning tales since childhood, and now he writes thrilling national park novels that'll have you hooked from the first page. Imagine the drama and mystery of the mountains combined with the adrenaline of a rollercoaster ride. That's what you'll find in Sean's books, set against the majestic backdrop of Yellowstone, Gettysburg, and Mount Rainier. His most recent thriller is set in Glacier and will drop later this year.

So, if you're craving an escape into the wild, look no further. Grab a copy of Sean's novels and prepare for an unforgettable adventure. These stories will transport you to the heart of the national parks, where danger lurks and heroes rise. Don't miss out! Find all his captivating novels right here and at the included QR code.