Inside the Chaos: How Trump’s Leadership Struggles and ‘Psychological Warfare’ Are Impacting America’s National Parks

Mark Nebel never thought he’d end his 15-year career with the National Park Service like this. As the geosciences manager at the Grand Canyon, he loved protecting its unique geology and wildlife. He had planned to work for at least five more years, but the Trump administration changed everything.

Once, his job was fulfilling. Now, after finding barriers to working with outside groups and limits on discussing climate change, he felt frustrated. Nebel decided to retire early to safeguard his health, stating, “I was tired of being manipulated, humiliated, and unable to do my job.”

The U.S. national park system, which includes over 85 million acres across the country, has long been cherished. A recent Pew survey showed 76% of Americans view it favorably. However, employee morale has taken a hit. With significant staff reductions and proposed $1 billion budget cuts, workers say they fear for the future.

The cuts threaten the parks’ ability to preserve ecosystems and endangered species. Employees report feeling disrespected and bullied as new rules make their work harder. For example, a program that monitored vital water systems in the Grand Canyon is on hold due to funding issues.

Recent statistics reveal that around 2,500 National Park Service jobs—13% of the agency—have disappeared since early 2025. Staff sharing their concerns anonymously describe a tense atmosphere hovering over daily operations.

While the tourism sector thrives, with record visitors in the past year, park experts warn of growing management issues. In parks like Yosemite, half of senior positions remain unfilled, raising questions about long-term care for these national treasures.

The continuous cuts and rigid funding conditions have employees scrambling. Some parks are short-staffed and can’t maintain essential programs. One biologist overseeing an endangered species recovery stated, “If we can’t maintain the ecosystem here, then I don’t see much hope for other places.”

Former parks director Jonathan Jarvis draws a worrying parallel between current events and his visits to China’s early national parks. He observed that while their public face shined, hidden issues loomed. He fears a similar “facade management” approach could damage U.S. national parks.

In an alarming prediction, Jarvis says the proposed funding reductions could lead to the most significant challenges the parks have ever faced. The Trump administration’s vision seems to downplay the crucial conservation work the parks were meant to uphold.

Despite fears and uncertainty, those who love their work at the parks remain determined. One long-time employee believes their role goes beyond just a job; it’s a calling. Many are committed to pushing back against these challenges, echoing a hopeful mantra: “Keep calm and ranger on.”



Source link