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3mo ago

National Park Service Reinstates Seasonal Hiring, Restores Some Jobs After Public Outcry

The Trump administration reverses course, approving 7,700 seasonal positions and restoring at least 50 jobs following criticism over staffing cuts.

Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Va., left, and Sen. Mark R. Warner, D-Va., confer as the Senate Budget Committee works on the markup of the Fiscal Year 2025 Budget Resolution, on Capitol Hill in Washington, Wednesday, Feb. 12, 2025. Senate Republicans are vowing to move quickly on a budget plan that could pave the way for billions more in additional border security and defense spending. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
Ranchlands head wrangler Skye Challener runs with her horse Walker through Medano Creek at the base of the Great Sand Dunes during a ride near the Medano-Zapata ranch on March 10, 2021. (Photo by Helen H. Richardson/The Denver Post)
President Donald speaks at the Republican Governors Association meeting at the National Building Museum in Washington, Thursday, Feb. 20, 2025. (Pool via AP)

Overview

  • The National Park Service will hire 7,700 seasonal workers this year, an increase from the recent three-year average of 6,350 positions.
  • At least 50 permanent jobs are being reinstated after widespread layoffs and rescinded job offers caused public backlash and bipartisan concern.
  • Seasonal workers are vital for maintaining park operations and visitor safety during peak months, with over 325 million annual visitors to 433 national sites.
  • Advocates warn that the reinstated positions may not fully address operational challenges caused by earlier layoffs and staffing instability.
  • Critics cite a lack of clear leadership and planning within the Interior Department, raising concerns about the long-term stability of park staffing.