Transforming America’s Treasures: How President Donald J. Trump Revitalized Our National Parks

PUTTING AMERICANS FIRST: Today, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order aimed at enhancing our national parks by increasing fees for foreign tourists. The goal? To improve services, access, and affordability for American families.

• The Order directs the Secretary of the Interior to raise fees only for foreign visitors. This ensures that national parks remain affordable and enjoyable for U.S. residents.
• It also prioritizes access for American families by asking the National Park Service to give them first dibs on permits and reservations.

MAKING OUR NATIONAL PARKS BEAUTIFUL AGAIN: Increased fees from foreign visitors could generate hundreds of millions of dollars for conservation projects. This funding would help maintain and beautify our parks.

• Many national parks worldwide have similar fee structures. This policy supports both conservation efforts and keeps access affordable for locals.
• The revenue from higher fees will help tackle maintenance backlogs, fund critical infrastructure improvements, and support conservation initiatives.
• This change also promotes fairness. American taxpayers help fund these parks but often pay the same admission price as foreign visitors. By adjusting fees, the Order intends to create a more equitable system.
• For context, when President Trump enacted the Great American Outdoors Act in 2020, there was a $14.9 billion maintenance backlog in national parks. Under the Biden Administration, this backlog has surged to over $22.9 billion. This new Order aims to reverse that trend.

HONORING OUR CONSERVATION LEGACY: America has a rich history in conservation, dating back to President Teddy Roosevelt. This Executive Order reflects that legacy by investing in our natural treasures and prioritizing American citizens.

• During his first term, President Trump introduced the Great American Outdoors Act, marking the largest investment in national parks in U.S. history. This Act represents a significant leap in conservation efforts, comparable to those initiated by Roosevelt.
• This Order continues President Trump’s conservation agenda, reinforcing his commitment to putting Americans first.

Recent surveys show that many Americans support these changes. A national study indicated that 78% of respondents believe foreign tourists should pay higher fees to support local conservation efforts. This sentiment highlights a collective desire for fair access to America’s natural wonders.

As we look to the future, it’s crucial to remember that investing in our parks not only preserves their beauty but also supports local economies. National parks are a vital part of our American identity, drawing millions of visitors each year. By enhancing their accessibility for citizens, we honor our heritage while safeguarding these treasures for generations to come.

For more information on national park conservation efforts, visit the National Park Service website.

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