Maryland’s national parks are facing challenges due to recent federal layoffs. These cuts could impact popular sites like Hampton National Site and Fort McHenry.
According to Ed Stierli from the National Parks Conservation Association, many of the laid-off staff were passionate about their jobs. “They still think of it as their dream job,” he said. These layoffs hit hard, especially since the National Park Service has been struggling with limited budgets and staffing for some time. Losing around 1,700 staff members—including park rangers and scientists—can significantly affect park operations.
On February 14, a substantial number of National Park Service and U.S. Forest Service employees lost their jobs as part of a federal workforce reduction. This decision aimed to streamline operations and save costs. “In Maryland alone, dozens of essential roles were cut,” Stierli shared. These include rangers, maintenance workers, and volunteer coordinators, which comes at a critical time as the nation prepares for its 250th birthday celebrations.
The job losses are likely to create broader issues. Stierli points out that there may be fewer hours of operation, limited programs, and reduced guided tours. “Without maintenance staff, it will be tougher to conserve these beautiful places,” he noted. Maryland’s parks contribute significantly to the local economy, generating approximately $340 million from tourism.
The Department of the Interior has indicated plans to bring back some seasonal employees. However, Stierli expressed concern about the long-term impact. “If there’s no clear plan for hiring,” he warned, “it creates uncertainty. And with experienced staff gone, training new hires may take longer.” He stressed that action needs to be taken quickly to avoid further problems.
For visitors planning trips to the parks, it’s important to check official park websites. This will provide the latest information on hours and available services. In response to the layoffs, Maryland Governor Wes Moore has also created a new website to assist affected federal employees with resources.
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