Arizona’s National Parks and Forests Face Challenges Amid Federal Worker Cuts

Arizona’s national parks and forests are experiencing significant challenges following President Donald Trump’s executive order on federal hiring and staff reductions. Reports indicate that wait times at the Grand Canyon National Park—one of the state’s most frequented sites—have doubled shortly after the National Park Service and National Forest Service laid off thousands of employees. The park, which ranks as the second most-visited in the country, lost four toll operators, contributing to increased congestion.

In total, the park service reportedly discharged around 1,000 workers as part of a broader initiative led by the Trump administration’s Department of Government Efficiency to reduce federal funding across multiple domains, including national parks and forests.

Although the federal hiring freeze, effective since January 20, has adversely impacted staffing, the park service has received clearance to fill thousands of seasonal positions. National forests, overseen by the Department of Agriculture, saw the USDA release about 2,000 probationary, non-firefighting employees, a move criticized by some as excessively broad. A union estimates the layoffs to be closer to 3,400 positions, intensifying the situation.

Critics of the staffing cuts, such as Matthew Nelson from the Arizona Trail Association, caution about the long-term consequences for residents accessing outdoor spaces. “The public lands that we cherish—national forests, BLM lands, national parks—are managed by federal agencies that are being dismantled,” he stated.

Outdoor recreation contributed over $14 billion to Arizona’s GDP in 2023, as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis. Nelson highlighted the deeper implications of these natural spaces for the identity of Arizonans. “For me, it defines what it means to be an Arizonan,” he said, adding that any changes to this landscape would alter residents’ perceptions of Arizona.

Bill Wade, from the Association of National Park Rangers, described the firings, termed the “Valentine’s Day massacre,” as a blunt approach rather than a targeted strategy. Those affected received notification via email on February 14, allowing only a brief window to return government equipment. Nonetheless, the National Park Service has committed to hiring seasonal staff to maintain visitor experiences, promising that the beauty of these iconic spaces will remain accessible.

In a recent social media statement, Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs criticized the federal cuts, arguing they jeopardize both the local economy and the park’s ability to highlight Arizona’s stunning natural wonders. Despite acknowledging the difficulties faced by the Grand Canyon, Hobbs indicated her administration would not divert state resources to assist.

With reduced workforce levels, volunteers and park service employees fear the repercussions may be felt by both residents and tourists alike. Nelson warned, “As the workforce diminishes, our ability to maintain trails and access to natural areas will be severely impacted.”