The U.S Forest Service has now fired about 3,400 recent hires and the National Park Service has fired about 1,000 of their workers due to Donald Trump’s push to cut federal spending and bureaucracy. The cuts represent about 10% of the Forest Service workforce and about 5% of the National Park Service workforce.  These cuts did not target any type of worker specifically. Employees of all types were fired, including wildlife biologists, archaeologists, and even wastewater treatment operators.

The problem with the budget cuts to the National Parks and Forest Services is that these employees are essential to keeping America’s most beautiful places running and taken care of. It may take several weeks from now to determine what type of services will be lost due to budget cuts. People planning to visit these parks and forests in the near future are being warned that they will face long lines, dirty bathrooms, overflowing trash cans, and unmaintained trails.

Some current workers also are worried about the safety of visitors. Without expert rangers to inform visitors of the more dangerous parts of parks and forests, people could end up getting themselves into trouble.

Over Valentine’s Day weekend, dozens of National Park workers took to social media to express their anger and sadness over this decision. One post from an instagram user, @ranger_wild, details his shock and devastation about the loss of his job. 

Some ways that you can help support the National Parks and Forests right now is through signing petitions, contacting your elected officials, spreading awareness, and donating. If you are planning to visit a national park or forest anytime soon, be extra sure to be a responsible and gracious guest, following the “leave no trace” principles.