Are any AS friends in national parks?

[Rocinante]

Vandalism of Joshua trees all the other problems of an un-staffed park finally caught up with Joshua Tree NP. It's closed until further notice.

https://www.theguardian.com/environm...ndalism-latest

[Gene]

This is crazy.

When they talk about people getting their tax refunds, doesn't that mean they are thinking this will last until or even after April? Some business have a different tax year, but most everyone is on the April schedule and even if you file very early, how many people do that?

Regardless of some facilities being open, won't people avoid them because it is hard to find out what is going on? Most people will assume all federal parks, etc., are closed and go elsewhere. Those that make reservations now for spring or summer won't (perhaps they can't). A lot of tourist towns must be biting their nails because revenue for lodging, restaurants and the rest of the tourism business is cratering.

Thinking even farther ahead, the next fiscal year begins October 1. Won't people assume there will be another shutdown then or a few weeks or months later? Will use of public lands drop significantly? Will people assume state parks are closed too? It amazes how little people know about their government, so all this is possible. If 10% avoid public lands because they assume perpetual problems, revenue in surrounding areas goes down 10% too for businesses and taxes to run local towns.

This leads to more cynicism.

[SteveSueMac]

More on Joshua:

People are destroying Joshua trees in Joshua Tree National Park - The Washington Post

https://apple.news/A-j-V9YOTRp-R4lwKxEuV_g

[Gene]

Yesterday I saw an article on Rocky Mtn. NP. Seems like a nonprofit is taking over some tasks like garbage removal and keeping some roads open. These things appear to change all the time and relying on anything may not be a good idea.

Training for firefighting has been limited, not good for those of us in western states. Preparations for controlled burns appear to have ended even though when snow is on the ground is a good time to do that. Fortunately we are getting more snow than last year, but it will take a lot to make up for years of drought.

The tree cutting at Joshua Tree was apparently so offroaders could more easily tear up pristine and closed areas. By the way, Joshua Trees are not actual trees, but are bushes. They sure are strange looking.

[TheGreatleys]

.

[Gene]

Since more shutdowns may occur, are travelers planning to avoid federal facilties this year?

[pmclemore]

We're starting a 4-week trip tomorrow, south and west. I'll certainly check before thinking about Big Bend, if we make it that far.

Pat

[PKI]

Given a shut down, the locals will need an influx of traveler spending even more than when the parks are operating as normal. We have two in the plan and will keep them on the route.

A big "Thank You" to all the folks helping with protecting and maintaining our Parks and Public Land. We appreciate your contribution to the solution.

Travel safe. Pat