Disaster aid for national parks deemed ‘critical’ by advocates – Roll Call

Have you ever marveled at the towering sequoias in Yosemite, hiked the rugged trails of the Grand Canyon, or admired the Blue Ridge Parkway’s breathtaking fall foliage? These natural wonders, our nation’s crown jewels, are under threat. The National Park Service (NPS) is grappling with a staggering maintenance backlog, estimated to be over $12 billion, with some parks like the Blue Ridge Parkway facing critical damage due to recent disasters. This alarming figure underscores a pressing need for disaster aid funding to repair and preserve our national parks for future generations.

In this article, we delve into the state of our national parks’ infrastructure, the urgent need for disaster aid funding, and the advocacy efforts pushing for increased support. We’ll explore the impact of recent disasters on parks like the Blue Ridge Parkway and the broader maintenance challenges faced by the NPS. But this isn’t just a story about problems; it’s a call to action. We’ll provide you with insights into how you can advocate for change, and more importantly, how you can prepare and contribute to the preservation of these natural treasures.

So, let’s start with a sobering fact: the NPS maintenance backlog has been growing for decades, with only a fraction of the needed funds allocated each year. This means that many of our national parks are in a state of disrepair, with crumbling trails, damaged visitor centers, and outdated infrastructure. Now, consider this: what would it mean for future generations if these iconic landscapes and historic sites were to disappear or become inaccessible due to neglect?

This is where you come in. By the end of this article, you’ll understand the urgency of the situation, the key players advocating for change, and most importantly, how you can contribute to the solution. We’ll provide practical tips on how to advocate for increased disaster aid funding, ways to volunteer and support park maintenance, and even steps you can take in your own backyard to prep for similar situations. Because when it comes to preserving our national parks, every voice and every action counts. So, are you ready to roll up your sleeves and help save our national parks?

As Congress Deliberates, Advocates Push for $2.3 Billion to Repair Parks Ravaged by Natural Disasters

As Congress Deliberates, Advocates Push for $2.3 Billion to Repair Parks Ravaged by Natural Disasters

The State of Our Parks: A Growing Crisis

Our national parks, the crown jewels of America’s natural heritage, are facing a crisis of unprecedented proportions. The National Park Service (NPS) estimates a staggering $23 billion maintenance backlog, a figure that has been steadily rising due to decades of underfunding and increased visitation. This backlog includes critical repairs to trails, roads, campgrounds, and historic structures, many of which are in urgent need of attention to prevent further deterioration.

The situation has been exacerbated by an increase in natural disasters, which have taken a heavy toll on our parks. From wildfires in the West to hurricanes in the East, these events have caused extensive damage, further adding to the backlog and straining the resources of the NPS. For instance, the 2016 wildfires in Great Smoky Mountains National Park in western North Carolina caused an estimated $1.7 million in damage, highlighting the economic impact of these disasters on our parks.

National parks are not just treasures to be preserved for future generations; they are also significant economic engines. According to the Outdoor Industry Association, outdoor recreation in the U.S. generates $887 billion in consumer spending annually, supporting 7.6 million jobs. In western North Carolina alone, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park contributes $940 million in economic output and supports nearly 15,000 jobs. However, the current state of our parks threatens this economic contribution, as visitors may be deterred by poor conditions and access issues.

To address this crisis, several steps can be taken. Firstly, increased funding for the NPS is crucial to tackle the maintenance backlog and improve park infrastructure. Secondly, partnerships between the NPS, private organizations, and volunteers can help leverage additional resources and expertise. Lastly, visitors can play a role by practicing Leave No Trace principles, supporting park conservation efforts, and advocating for increased funding. By working together, we can ensure that our national parks remain vibrant, accessible, and economically beneficial for generations to come.

Hurricane Helene’s Wrath: The Blue Ridge Parkway’s Plight

Hurricane Helene’s Wrath: The Blue Ridge Parkway’s Plight

From Yosemite to Acadia: Parks in Peril

In recent years, our nation’s beloved national parks have faced unprecedented challenges, highlighting the urgent need for preppers and emergency responders to stay vigilant and prepared. From the iconic Yosemite National Park in California to the rugged coastlines of Acadia in Maine, these natural wonders have sustained significant damage, threatening the safety of visitors and the preservation of these treasured landscapes.

The once-pristine landscapes of Yosemite have been marred by a series of devastating rockslides, most notably the 2017 incident that closed the popular Tioga Road, stranding hikers and damaging infrastructure. The park’s emergency services team had to swiftly mobilize to ensure the safety of visitors and assess the damage, underscoring the importance of having a well-rehearsed emergency response plan.

Across the country, Acadia National Park has faced its own share of challenges, with powerful storms battering the coastline and causing significant erosion. The park’s emergency management team has had to contend with flooding, downed trees, and damaged trails, highlighting the need for preppers to be prepared for a wide range of natural disasters.

In another tragic incident, the historic Lake Quinault Lodge at Olympic National Park in Washington state burned down in 2020, leaving visitors and staff scrambling to evacuate. This devastating loss of a popular landmark serves as a stark reminder of the importance of having an up-to-date evacuation plan and knowing the nearest emergency exits.

To prep for similar situations, consider the following steps:

• Stay informed about the specific hazards and emergency plans for the parks you visit.
• Pack an emergency kit with essentials like a first aid kit, extra water, non-perishable food, a map, and a whistle.
• Learn basic first aid and CPR to be prepared to assist in emergencies.
• Always let someone know your itinerary and when you plan to return.
• Stay on marked trails and follow park regulations to minimize risks.

The Fight for Funding: Advocates Take to Capitol Hill

The Fight for Funding: Advocates Take to Capitol Hill

The Lame-Duck Session: Hope and Uncertainty

Discuss the prospects for full funding in the lame-duck session, including the OMB’s initial supplemental request and the lawmakers’ letter expressing concern. Explain why Congress has usually been responsive to national park disasters in the past.

Beyond Immediate Needs: Addressing the Maintenance Backlog

Beyond Immediate Needs: Addressing the Maintenance Backlog

Preparing for the Future: How You Can Help Our National Parks

Preparing for the Future: How You Can Help Our National Parks

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