The National Parks Service reported a record high of 331.9 million visits in 2024, but the White House has implemented layoffs which could affect travelers. Small businesses in Moab, Utah are already seeing a decrease in Canadian tourists, who are angered by President Trump’s tariff plans and talk of making Canada the 51st state. The potential American visitors are also canceling trips due to the federal job cuts at nearby Arches and Canyonlands national parks, which draw 3.6 million visitors annually.
While some in the community see the job cuts as beneficial in reducing federal oversight of public lands, others are concerned about the impact on tourism, with businesses facing cancellations and financial losses. Federal employees stationed at Arches and Canyonlands, as well as regional supervisors for various agencies, have been affected by the layoffs. This has caused significant uncertainty within the community, especially for those in the tourism industry heavily reliant on federal lands.
Despite promises of hiring seasonal workers, there is still lingering uncertainty about the future of the parks and the quality of services provided. The cuts have raised concerns about park safety, maintenance, and the overall experience for visitors. While some support the idea of reducing government size, others appreciate the value of the National Park system and are concerned about the impact of the layoffs. The situation highlights the delicate balance between federal oversight, tourism, and economic dependence on public lands.
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