For seven years, Jaelle Downs worked hard as a forestry technician and wilderness ranger in Washington’s Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. She spent her days cleaning up after campers, teaching them about “Leave No Trace” principles, and even responding to medical emergencies.
“We’re not just there to tell people what to do,” Downs explains. “We’re there to assist them, too.”
However, things changed when she, along with many others, lost her job due to cuts in the National Park Service and U.S. Forest Service. Downs was part of an estimated 3,400 employees let go as part of a government effort to reduce spending.
The cuts primarily affected newer employees and those in probation, often labeled as underperformers. But Downs had received a strong performance review, highlighting her dedication even during tough staffing shortages.
Downs is worried about what this means for visitors as summer approaches. Without adequate staff, parks could become dirtier and less safe. “I really believe people are going to have a lot more issues accessing these areas,” she said.
Many former workers share her concerns. They fear that trails may become less safe and filled with more litter. Downs recalls identifying potential hazards on trails and monitoring dangerous situations like lightning-strike fires.
“It’s scary to think that nobody will be out there to do these jobs that are really needed,” she adds. Without proper oversight, visitors may find themselves in unsafe conditions that lead to accidents.
The firings not only affect safety but can also lead to health risks. Human waste and trash could overflow or remain improperly treated, posing dangers to wildlife and park visitors alike.
In response to the concerns raised by former employees, the U.S. Forest Service maintains that they remain committed to public safety and health. They claim they are working hard to ensure that recreation services remain accessible.
The expert knowledge of permanent staff is invaluable. It takes years to build familiarity with the parks and the unique challenges they present. For example, Eileen Kramer, who was responsible for logistics at Lake Clark National Park, knows firsthand how critical experienced staff are for maintaining safety in remote locations.
Similarly, at other parks, the loss of permanent staff means a gap in expertise. Robert Hartwig, who worked as a visual information specialist, was instrumental in making historical sites accessible and informative. With his departure, important projects aiming to engage and educate the public may suffer.
Kenan Chan, a biological science technician at Channel Islands National Park, expressed concern over the loss of crucial environmental knowledge. His work helped monitor and protect local wildlife, ensuring visitors could safely enjoy the unique aspects of the park.
These firings could impact visitor experiences dramatically. Chan advises people to continue visiting parks, but to be aware of potential limitations in services. He emphasizes the importance of speaking up when things aren’t up to standard due to staffing shortages.
To make a difference, former workers encourage the public to voice their feelings to legislators and to support grassroots movements advocating for the parks. Downs reminds us that these public lands belong to everyone. “It’s actually your land,” she said. “The Forest Service just takes care of it.”
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