A Threat to America's Natural Treasures: The Pending Government Shutdown and its Impact on National Parks

As the United States faces the specter of another government shutdown, the implications ripple across

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various sectors of society. Among the many concerns that arise when the government ceases its operations, the potential impact on national parks stands out. These protected areas of natural beauty are not only beloved by Americans but also play a vital role in supporting local economies. In this blog post, we'll delve into the looming federal government shutdown and its potential consequences for national parks, drawing insights from a Bloomberg Government report on the situation during peak fall season.

The Countdown Begins

With the federal government once again teetering on the brink of a shutdown, the possibility of dire consequences for national parks is becoming increasingly real. If Congress fails to pass a spending bill by the end of the month, the operations of these natural treasures will be severely affected.

A Peak Season Threat

The pending government shutdown coincides with the peak fall season, a time when many national parks are at their most stunning. The potential consequences of this shutdown are significant and would cause lasting damage to the environment, local economies, and more.

Disrupted Visitor Experience: National parks like Yellowstone, Acadia, and the Great Smoky Mountains are popular fall destinations, attracting tourists from around the country and the world. A government shutdown could disrupt the travel plans of countless individuals and families, robbing them of the opportunity to experience the splendor of fall foliage and unique wildlife encounters.

Economic Fallout: The fall season is a boon for local economies surrounding national parks. Businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and outdoor adventure companies, depend on the influx of tourists. A shutdown would deliver a significant blow to these enterprises, potentially leading to layoffs and financial struggles.

Environmental Concerns: The absence of park rangers and staff during a shutdown can lead to increased instances of illegal activities, such as poaching and vandalism. This can have severe consequences for the delicate ecosystems within national parks.

Infrastructure Neglect: National parks already face a significant backlog of maintenance projects. A shutdown would halt these essential repairs and maintenance efforts, potentially leading to long-term damage to park infrastructure and ecosystems.

The Human Toll: The shutdown could result in furloughs for park staff, including rangers and maintenance workers, leading to uncertainty and financial hardship for those who rely on these jobs to support their families.

A Call for Bipartisanship

The looming threat of a government shutdown underscores the necessity for bipartisan cooperation in Congress. It's crucial that elected officials prioritize the welfare of the nation and its cherished natural landscapes by finding common ground and passing spending bills that keep national parks operational.

What You Can Do!

The prospect of a government shutdown is a source of concern for many Americans. Whether it's due to political gridlock, budget disputes, or other factors, a shutdown can have far-reaching consequences on our nation. Fortunately, there are ways for individuals to voice their opposition and contribute to the collective effort to prevent such disruptions. Here are some simple steps Americans can take to make their voices heard.

Contact Your Elected Representatives

One of the most direct ways to voice your opposition to a government shutdown is to contact your elected representatives. Reach out to your senators and representatives in Congress to express your concerns. Personalized emails, phone calls, or letters can have a significant impact. Be clear and concise about your worries and urge them to work towards a resolution. Click here to contact your elected officials.

Attend Public Forums and Town Hall Meetings

Many elected officials hold public forums and town hall meetings to interact with constituents. Attend these events and take the opportunity to ask questions and express your concerns about the potential shutdown. Public pressure can influence their decisions.

Utilize Social Media

In the digital age, social media can be a powerful platform for raising awareness. Share articles, infographics, and personal stories that highlight the consequences of a government shutdown. Engage in respectful conversations with others to encourage understanding and action.

Write Letters to the Editor

Local newspapers and publications often publish letters to the editor. Write a letter expressing your opposition to a shutdown and its potential impact on your community. Publicly voiced opinions can contribute to a broader conversation.

Conclusion

The potential federal government shutdown represents a significant threat to national parks across the United States, particularly during the peak fall season. The consequences encompass economic, environmental, and human dimensions. It is essential that our elected representatives prioritize the protection and preservation of these national treasures, ensuring they remain accessible to all Americans, regardless of political divisions. Our national parks are a source of pride and inspiration, and their well-being should always be safeguarded.

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Meet Sean Smith, the master of conservation, adventure, and storytelling! This award-winning author 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. 

Capturing Nature's Beauty: The Greatest Painters and Photographers of National Parks

National parks are a sanctuary for nature lovers and a haven for artists seeking to immortalize the breathtaking landscapes that surround us. Throughout history, numerous painters have been inspired by the grandeur of these protected lands, using their artistic talent to bring the beauty of national parks to life on canvas. In this blog post, we will celebrate the work of some of the greatest painters who have left an indelible mark on the art world through their exceptional renditions of national parks.

Thomas Moran (1837-1926)

Thomas Moran, often referred to as the "Painter of the Yellowstone," was a 19th-century American painter renowned for his stunning landscapes of the American West, particularly Yellowstone National Park. His breathtaking oil paintings played a pivotal role in convincing the U.S. Congress to designate Yellowstone as the first official national park in 1872. Moran's ability to capture the awe-inspiring geysers, majestic waterfalls, and vibrant colors of the park on canvas earned him a place among the greatest painters of national parks.

Ansel Adams (1902-1984)

While Ansel Adams is primarily known for his groundbreaking black-and-white photography, his work has had a profound impact on the appreciation of national parks. Through his striking photographs of iconic parks such as Yosemite, Grand Canyon, and Glacier National Park, Adams not only showcased the beauty of these locations but also became an advocate for their conservation. His mastery of light and composition in his photographs influenced painters and photographers alike, making him an important figure in the art world and the preservation of natural landscapes.

Albert Bierstadt (1830-1902)

Albert Bierstadt was a German-American painter who gained fame for his majestic paintings of the American West, particularly the Rocky Mountains and Yosemite Valley. Bierstadt's grandiose and romanticized landscapes emphasized the vastness and beauty of the wilderness, captivating viewers and evoking a sense of wonder. His realistic yet dreamlike depictions of national parks left a lasting impact on the art community, inspiring future generations of artists to explore the beauty of the American landscape.

Georgia O'Keeffe (1887-1986)

While Georgia O'Keeffe is best known for her close-up paintings of flowers and New York
skyscrapers, she also made significant contributions to capturing the essence of national parks. Her paintings of the stark landscapes of New Mexico, particularly those inspired by Ghost Ranch and the surrounding desert, demonstrate her ability to depict the raw beauty and spirit of nature. O'Keeffe's unique artistic vision and connection with the natural world make her an influential figure in the representation of national parks through art.

Maynard Dixon (1875-1946)

Maynard Dixon, an American artist and a master of the western landscape, is celebrated for his depictions of national parks like Zion, Bryce Canyon, and the Grand Canyon. Dixon's artwork emphasized the rugged beauty of the Southwest and the delicate balance between light and shadow in the region's landscapes. His paintings evoked a sense of serenity and harmony with nature, making him one of the most celebrated painters of the American West.

The greatest painters of national parks have not only left us with stunning works of art but have also contributed significantly to the conservation and appreciation of these natural wonders. Their masterpieces have captured the essence of national parks, conveying their majesty, grandeur, and profound impact on the human spirit. As we continue to enjoy and protect these treasured lands, we can look back at the art of these talented painters to remind us of the timeless beauty and value of our national parks.

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Meet Sean Smith, the master of conservation, adventure, and storytelling! This award-winning author 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. 

Discover the Best Summer Events in National Parks

National parks are a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and adventure seekers. They offer breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and a chance to immerse oneself in the beauty of the natural world. But beyond the scenic wonders, national parks also host a wide array of captivating events throughout the summer. From educational programs to music festivals and starry night sky gatherings, these events add an extra dimension to your park experience. 

Yosemite Facelift, Yosemite National Park:

Kicking off our list is the Yosemite Facelift, a commendable event held annually in Yosemite National Park. Taking place in September, this week-long gathering brings together volunteers from all walks of life to engage in a massive cleanup effort. Participants contribute their time and energy to help restore and maintain the park's pristine beauty, pick up trash, clear trails, and restore damaged areas. It's a fantastic way to give back to nature while enjoying the awe-inspiring vistas Yosemite offers.

Grand Teton Music Festival, Grand Teton National Park:

For music aficionados, the Grand Teton Music Festival is a must-attend event. Held during the summer months in Grand Teton National Park, this festival showcases exceptional performances by renowned musicians and orchestras. With the majestic Teton Range as a backdrop, attendees can revel in the harmonious blend of nature and music. From classical symphonies to contemporary compositions, this event promises an unforgettable experience.

Night Sky Festivals, Various Parks:

Many national parks are known for their dark skies and stargazing opportunities. Several parks, such as Joshua Tree National Park and Acadia National Park, organize Night Sky Festivals during the summer. These events allow visitors to witness the wonders of the universe through telescopes, attend workshops on astrophotography, and engage with experts who share their knowledge about the celestial realm. Exploring the park's nocturnal side and marveling at the constellations overhead is a truly magical experience.

Denali Film Festival, Denali National Park:

Immerse yourself in storytelling and cinematography at the Denali Film Festival. This event is located in Denali National Park and showcases captivating films about wildlife, conservation, and outdoor adventures. The festival entertains and raises awareness about the importance of preserving our natural heritage. Set against the backdrop of Alaska's rugged wilderness, this festival offers a unique perspective on the power of film to inspire change.

Elk Bugling Tours, Rocky Mountain National Park:

Rocky Mountain National Park is renowned for its abundant wildlife, including majestic elk. During the summer, the park offers Elk Bugling Tours, allowing visitors to witness the captivating mating calls of these iconic creatures. Accompanied by experienced guides, participants embark on early morning or late evening excursions to witness the elk rut and hear the resonant bugling echoing through the valleys. It's an extraordinary opportunity to observe the rhythms of nature up close.

Exploring national parks during the summer season is always a rewarding experience, but attending the diverse range of events they offer elevates it to another level. Whether you lend a helping hand during the Yosemite Facelift, immerse yourself in the enchanting melodies of the Grand Teton Music Festival, or delve into the mysteries of the night sky during a Night Sky Festival, these events provide unique and memorable moments. So, plan your summer adventure, mark your calendars, and include these incredible events in your itinerary to enhance your national park experience.

https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/news-analysis/best-summer-events-national-parks/

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Meet Sean Smith, the master of conservation, adventure, and storytelling! This award-winning author

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.

National Parks are Everywhere

I recently traveled to Southern California for a work training.  On a lark I decided to keep an eye out for national park images, references, and items on my trip. Over the four days I found references to Arches, Grand Teton, Alcatraz, Crater Lake, John Day Fossil Bed, Mount Rainier, the National Park Service, World War II Valor in the Pacific, and Yosemite for a total 10 national parks. 

This is the first time I've paid attention to the park images around me, but I'm not surprised at the number I spotted.  On previous trips, I've been struck by how prevalent park images are in ads, stories, products, movies, and in the news. So this time I decide to count them.

At the end of my adventure I found parks appear to be everywhere. The question is why?

While many may not be aware of it, National Parks are physical manifestations of what Americans most sacred places, and most important ideas, values, and history.  As such governments, advertisers, writers, entrepreneurs, and many others use the park image to connect to the values parks represent.

On your next trip or vacation pay attention to spot national park images. Perhaps a kind of park bingo can be played.

How many can you spot?

License Plate, Arches National Park

Presentation, Grand Teton National Park

Star Trek Movie, Alcatraz National Monument

Travel Magazine, Crater Lake National Park

News Story, Grand Teton National Park

Travel Magazine, John Day Fossil Bed National Monument

Mug, Mount Rainier National Park

News Article, National Park Service

Travel Magazine, World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument

Mug, Yosemite National Park

Sean Smith is a former Yellowstone Ranger, and an award winning conservationist, TEDx speaker, and author. He writes national park thrillers from his home in the shadow of Mount Rainier National Park. To learn more about his thrillers click here or follow him on twitter: @parkthrillers

Park Madness: Sweet Sixteen

The National Park Madness sweet sixteen are set. Many of the favorites continued their march toward the final four. However, we saw our first of the big four go down.

 

In the East, the Washington Monument's height proved too much for Acadia and the GW monolith moved on to the next round.  Arches continued its deep run into the tournament with outstanding shooting beyond the three point arch, upsetting its Utah brethren for its spot among the 16 best. Glacier found itself in a big hole early in its battle with the Grand Canyon, but in the second half was able to dig its way out.  In the South, a monster match up of two gulf coast parks will go at it. While in the West, Death Valley was hot early, but Olympic's shooting rained down in the second half, moving the triple threat park (beaches, mountains, and forests) onto the next round. Yosemite continues its climb toward the finals, but Denali, Olympic, and Lassen hope to knock the Granite gamers off their perch.

 

 

 

Sean Smith is a former Yellowstone Ranger, and an award winning conservationist, TEDx speaker, and author. He writes national park thrillers from his home in the shadow of Mount Rainier National Park. To learn more about his conservation work and novels, follow him on twitter: @parkthrillers

National Park Madness!

The NCAA Basketball tournament is almost upon us. The annual playoffs to determine the best team in college basketball is referred to by fans as March Madness! Fans fill out brackets every year, trying to predict who will come home with the trophy.

In the spirit of March Madness, Park thrillers has created its own tournament called PARK MADNESS.  Sixty four of America's best national parks go head to head to determine the country's over all best!

The Park Madness brackets are below.  Did your favorite park make the tournament?  Who got slighted? Who got in who shouldn't? Which park will be crowned number 1? 

Check back in the coming days to see who advances to the finals!

Must National Parks modernize to remain relevant?

Michael Gray

National parks are all over the news these days. From stories about a “Creepy” graffiti bandit to efforts by some states to seize our national heritage, national parks are at the top of the national discussion. At the heart of many of these stories is a question, one that has perplexed the Park Service from before its inception, how can the park system remain relevant in our modern world? Some even go so far as to question the conservation ethic which serves as the Park Service’s guiding management principle, claiming it should be buried.

Everyone seems to have an idea on how to make the parks relevant. Suggestions range from giving the parks to the states, providing new or expanded access for recreational activities like mountain biking or providing new amenities like high speed internet and cell phone services.

Putting aside the fact that national parks like Glacier and Rocky Mountain continue to break visitation records, pundits bemoan the fact that the current park system is a throwback to an ancient time.  If national parks are to remain relevant especially to millennials and minorities the park system must get with the times.

But is this the case? Are we standing on a historic precipice? Must we so dramatically change the park system to save it, that it would be hardly recognizable to visitors even a decade ago?

Anyone who would answer yes to these questions obviously doesn’t know the Park Service’s history and how it is that we are the beneficiary of a system that is the envy of the world.

Nearly every generation of park defenders is challenged by a misguided segment of the population saying the parks must modernize or risk becoming irrelevant. The parks are too difficult to access, the park service places to many restrictions on visitors, they are too antiquated or out of date they charge.  They need to be run more like a business, offering a resort like broad spectrum of activities and amenities.

However, the park system was created in part as a counter to modernization or as some put it the cheapening of nature.

In the early years of the country, the nation’s best known natural wonder was Niagara Falls. People came from all over the world to see the mighty cataract. Quick thinking entrepreneurs saw dollars signs in those visitors. They bought up many of best viewing spots and walled them off, with a baseball like outfield fence.  Visitors were charged a pretty penny to see the falls through precut viewing holes. Yet, this would only capture so much money and wouldn’t guarantee repeat visits, so these entrepreneurs continually sought ways to capture the public’s attention, to keep the falls “modern.” Promoters brought in high wire acts and traveling circuses to squeeze the crowds of their hard earned money.  Unfortunately, Niagara Falls became little more than a cheap backdrop for the ever sensational and questionable sideshows.

It was against this backdrop that the national park system got its start. Early proponents of the parks realized that private viewing platforms, circus acts, and high wire stunts cheapened Niagara Falls, but even worse the “modernization” cheapened visitor’s experience, rendering a trip to the falls as no different than an experience that could be had at a circus or carnival.  The founders of the national parks knew what made Yellowstone and Yosemite special, they can provide experiences and create memories to be found nowhere else in the world. The park system’s founders deliberately wanted to prevent the cheapening of the country’s scenic wonders; by protecting our most iconic landscapes while providing reasonable access for all. Unlike Europe where public lands were often playgrounds for the rich and powerful, America’s public domain would be open to everyone. As such, the park system and park service were established to preserve and protect our nation’s best natural, cultural and historic wonders for the benefit of both current and future generations.

Parks don’t need Wi-Fi, parks don’t need high speed internet, parks don’t need five-star accommodations and parks don’t need state management. These so-called solutions are actually the quickest path toward rendering the parks irrelevant, merely another side show. Instead the public must demand that park managers focus on what makes national parks’ unique and protect that.

The only reason we have the opportunity to debate the relevance of national parks today is because our ancestors put aside their short term wants by protecting our most treasured places.  We owe them a great debt for this gift. We cannot pay them back for this gift. Rather we can merely pass it forward unimpaired. If we curb our desire to modernize the national parks, future generations will thank us as well.

Sean Smith is a former Yellowstone Ranger, and an award winning conservationist, TEDx speaker, and author. He writes national park thrillers from his home in the shadow of Mount Rainier National Park. To learn more about his conservation work and novels, please visit www.seandavidsmith.blogspot.com or follow him on twitter: @parkthrillers

New Parks benefit all

The national park system is comprised of well known sites like Yellowstone, Yosemite, and the Grand Canyon. Yet, it also includes lesser known jewels like Point Reyes, Devil's Tower, and Fort Vancouver. All total the park system contains nearly 400 sites, sites that contain and protect some of America's most sacred ideas, hopes, places. The founders of the park system envisioned that as America developed, its history unfolded, and scientific understanding deepened, the park system would expand to capture these new chapters in our ongoing story.


Currently, efforts in Washington State are underway to elevate Mount St. Helens to a national park. Adding the volcano to the park system would bestow added prestige to the volcano, attract new visitors, improve the regional economy, provide more stable funding, improve recreation, and better protect irreplaceable natural and cultural wonders. Recently, 100 economists, including three Nobel laureates signed a letter to President Obama detailing the economic benefits of protected lands such as that in the park system.


Unleashing Colter's Hell, my soon to be released novel, is set in Yellowstone National Park. Yellowstone is the world's first national park. Since that time more than 100 countries have followed America's lead and established approximately 1,000 national parks. Some have called the "national park" America's best idea.


Across the country today, community leaders, business owners, recreation enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, and countless others are re-discovering their nearby national treasures and exploring the benefits of adding their sites to the national park system. Several new park bills have been introduced this congress, many could be pass this Fall.


A park system that continues to evolve and expand, can better tell the American story, better reflect the changing face of America.


What benefits do you see from an expanded park system?