1. United States
2. Pa.
3. Letter

I am writing as a concerned constituent to express my deep alarm over recent federal actions that jeopardize the integrity and future of our national parks and public lands. The current administration’s policies, including federal hiring freezes and significant staff reductions, have led to the termination of 3,400 U.S. Forest Service workers and rescinded job offers within the National Park Service. These measures have precipitated protests from dedicated park employees and supporters, as seen recently in Yosemite Valley. The staffing shortages are particularly concerning as we approach peak visitor seasons. Essential services such as maintenance, emergency response, and visitor safety are at risk, potentially leading to overcrowding and environmental degradation. The suspension of reservation systems, designed to manage visitor numbers, exacerbates these challenges. Moreover, the administration’s intent to dismantle key environmental protections, including those under the Endangered Species Act, poses a severe threat to biodiversity. The formation of a committee with the authority to override species protections, even at the risk of extinction, is deeply troubling. The proposal to redraw national monument boundaries to facilitate energy exploitation further endangers our protected lands. Monuments such as Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante are at risk of being opened for drilling and mining, undermining conservation efforts and disregarding the cultural significance of these areas. As your constituent, I demand that you take decisive action to: 1. Advocate for the reinstatement of essential National Park Service and U.S. Forest Service positions to ensure our parks are adequately staffed and maintained. 2. Oppose any legislative or executive actions that weaken environmental protections, including those that compromise the Endangered Species Act and the integrity of national monuments. 3. Support funding and policies that prioritize conservation and responsible stewardship of our natural and cultural resources, ensuring they remain protected for future generations. Our national parks and public lands are invaluable treasures that embody our nation’s heritage and natural beauty. It is imperative that we uphold our commitment to preserving these landscapes. I will be closely watching your actions on this issue and will take them into consideration when I vote in the next election. I trust you will represent our community’s interests by championing the protection of these irreplaceable resources. Thank you for your attention to this critical matter.