1. United States
2. Mich.
3. Letter

As a constituent and a passionate advocate for Michigan’s national parks, I am writing to express my deep concern about the recent job losses affecting over a thousand National Park Service (NPS) staff nationwide. These cuts come at a critical time, as families across the country—and here in Michigan—are planning their spring break and summer vacations to our cherished national parks. Michigan’s five national parks—Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Isle Royale National Park, Keweenaw National Historical Park, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, and River Raisin National Battlefield Park—are not only natural and historical treasures but also vital economic engines for our state. In 2020 alone, 3.2 million visitors spent an estimated $267 million in local communities, supporting 3,770 jobs and contributing $380 million to Michigan’s economy. These parks depend on the dedicated NPS staff who serve as their backbone, ensuring their smooth operation and the preservation of their irreplaceable resources. From guiding hikes and conducting backcountry rescues to maintaining trails and ensuring clean facilities, park staff are already stretched thin. With devastating cuts to their ranks, the implications for the care of our parks, the safety of visitors, and the stability of local economies are dire. Without immediate action, these cuts will severely impact the visitor experience, just as families begin to flock to our parks for spring break and summer vacations. The recent directives threatening NPS staffing levels are nothing short of devastating. Any further cuts could permanently alter the character and accessibility of our national parks, harming not only the parks themselves but also the communities that rely on them for economic stability. As your constituent, I urge you to speak up on behalf of Michigan’s national parks and the dedicated staff who keep them running. Please advocate for the immediate restoration of NPS jobs and oppose any further cuts to staffing or funding. Our parks, our visitors, and our local economies depend on your leadership. Thank you for your attention to this critical issue. I look forward to your response and hope to see your strong support for Michigan’s national parks and the communities they sustain.