John Muir, the ‘Father of National Parks’ is probably rolling in his grave right now given the recent changes to the national parks system.
In an era where our national parks face unprecedented challenges, from overcrowding to budget cuts, it’s crucial to mention the visionary who first championed their protection. The recent changes to America’s national park system would likely have John Muir, the pioneering conservationist and “Father of National Parks,” questioning the future of his legacy. From staff reductions to potential privatization threats, these shifts represent a significant departure from Muir’s original vision of preserved wilderness accessible to all.
Yet, as we navigate these changes, Muir’s fundamental principles of conservation and public access remain more relevant than ever. His passionate advocacy not only shaped America’s approach to wilderness preservation but continues to inspire modern environmental movements. Understanding this legacy — and the current challenges it faces— is crucial for anyone who cares about the future of America’s natural treasures.
In this exploration, we’ll journey from Muir’s revolutionary ideas to the present-day struggles of our national parks system, examining how his vision continues to influence conservation efforts while adapting to modern challenges. We’ll also discover what these changes mean for visitors and learn how we can help preserve these natural wonders for future generations.
3 Key Takeaways:
- John Muir’s pioneering conservation work shaped America’s approach to wilderness preservation
- Recent changes in national park policies aim to address overcrowding and sustainability
- Actionable takeaways for supporting the national parks
History of the US National Parks
John Muir (1838-1914) was born in Dunbar, Scotland later emigrating to the United States. He is best known as a naturalist, author, and early advocate of wilderness preservation in the United States. Often called the “Father of National Parks,” his writings and activism played a crucial role in establishing several national parks, including Yosemite, Sequoia, and Mount Rainier.
His deep appreciation and education for the natural world have left a legacy and run true to sustainability efforts. When John Muir first laid eyes on Yosemite Valley in 1868, he couldn’t have imagined how his passion for wilderness would shape America’s approach to natural preservation. Today, as our national parks face new challenges, Muir’s legacy continues to influence modern conservation efforts.
The John Muir’s Birthplace Museum is free and is located in the sleepy seaside town of Dunbar, just 30 minutes by train from Edinburgh.
John Muir’s Lasting Impact
John Muir’s impact on America’s natural heritage extends far beyond his lifetime. He fundamentally changed how Americans viewed and valued their natural landscapes through his passionate advocacy and poetic writings about wilderness. His work was instrumental in establishing the national park system, transforming wilderness preservation from a fringe concept into a national priority.
Muir’s philosophy that nature should be protected not just for its resources but for its spiritual and recreational value was revolutionary for his time. His close friendship with President Theodore Roosevelt led to pivotal moments in conservation history, including a famous camping trip in Yosemite that helped cement Roosevelt’s commitment to preserving America’s natural wonders. I picture them in the heyday marveling at the natural beauty of Yosemite doing the Owen Wilson, “WOOAW”
The systems and protections Muir helped establish created a framework for environmental conservation that continues to influence policy and public opinion today. His vision of protecting wilderness areas while making them accessible to the public set the foundation for modern park management practices.
- Founded the Sierra Club in 1892, a non-profit that “works to advance climate solutions and ensure everyone has access to clean air, clean water, and a healthy environment”
- Muir’s ideas influenced the creation of the National Park Service in 1916
- Established the philosophical foundation for wilderness preservation
- Muir wrote and published over 300 magazine articles and 12 books, all brimming with his love of adventure, nature, wildness, and the interconnectedness of all life. At the time of his death, he was working on a book about his travels in Alaska. Some of his most notable works are:
- Picturesque California and the Region West of the Rocky Mountains, from Alaska to Mexico (1888 – 1890). Complete text of Muir’s writings in this book he edited.
- The Mountains of California (1894).
- Our National Parks (1901).
What’s Happening to the US National Parks?
The Trump Administration decided to cut National Park funding by firing thousands of national park and forest workers due to sweeping budget cuts and shifting federal priorities.
Officials cite budgetary constraints and reallocation of resources as justifications. However, critics argue that understaffing not only undermines conservation efforts but also leaves public lands vulnerable to neglect and eventually, by private investors looking to capitalize on diminished oversight.
Seasonal workers are routinely added during the warm-weather months to serve more than 325 million visitors who descend on the nation’s 428 parks, and historic and cultural sites, along with regulating over tourism among other attractions each year.
The Great American Outdoors Act, passed with bipartisan support in 2020 and signed by Trump, authorizes $6.5 billion over five years to maintain and improve national parks.
A freeze on spending under a five-year-old law signed by Trump also jeopardizes national parks without Park Rangers — from trail maintenance, preservation, search and rescue, law enforcement, and resource management, in addition to parks that are undergoing restoration and road projects, like bridge improvements at Yellowstone National Park, which is in the midst of a $216 million project to improve safety, access, and experience on park roads.
What Are the Implications on National Parks?
The decision to drastically cut budgets for National Parks has far-reaching impacts on thru-hikers, local trail enthusiasts, and visitors, and anyone who enjoys democratic access to America’s land. National Park Service employees maintain and clean parks, educate visitors, and perform other integral functions, like search and rescue and fire mitigation as part of its broad-based effort to downsize government. Reduced staffing affects critical park operations including trail maintenance, facility upkeep, visitor education, search and rescue, and wildfire mitigation. These cuts also weaken protections against harmful oil and gas activities on national parks and public lands.
Impact on Wildfires or Flooding
As the number of national park and forest staff dwindles, concerns extend beyond trail maintenance and emergency response. The capacity to combat wildfires is also in jeopardy. Wildland firefighting relies heavily on well-trained personnel, rapid coordination, and accessible resources—all of which are currently strained by staffing cuts. Some regions may also be vulnerable to flooding from snowmelt or avalanches, thus putting lives at stake if not managed or responded to properly.
Historically, park rangers and forest workers have played an integral role in firefighting efforts, from early detection to coordinating suppression actions.
How to Support the National Parks
Here’s where I’d like to tell the Trump Administration your ass is grass. John Muir said it better:
“The battle for conservation must go on endlessly. It is part of the universal warfare between right and wrong.” – John Muir
Volunteer Initiatives
- Engage with local park programs and join volunteer trail maintenance efforts. Hikers can try to help fill the gap by clearing debris, picking up after themselves, completely extinguishing your fires if you absolutely must make one, and organizing community clean-up events.
Political Engagement
Contact local, state, and federal representatives to express concerns over the staffing cuts. Attend town hall meetings and advocate for bipartisan support of public land funding. Engage in respectful conversations with people in your life with the genuine goal of hearing and understanding their perspectives. Building connections and advocacy groups that span political divides will be instrumental in reversing policies that jeopardize our public lands.
- Outdoor Alliance has a quick and easy way to send a message to Congress. It takes less than a minute, but collective action like this can make a real impact in reversing harmful policies.
Support Conservation Groups
Donate time or resources to established environmental organizations that are actively fighting for increased public funding and protection of our parks. Their research and advocacy are vital in holding policymakers accountable. A few groups leading the charge include:
- Outdoor Alliance – A coalition of human-powered outdoor recreation groups that actively lobby for public land protections and better agency funding.
- American Hiking Society – Focuses on trail conservation, stewardship programs, and advocacy for well-maintained hiking infrastructure.
- Partnership for the National Trails System – Connects member nonprofit trail organizations and federal agency partners to preserve, enhance, and promote National Scenic and Historic Trails across the United States.
How to Visit National Parks Responsibly
Be prepared that National Parks may have long lines for entry due to short staff, limited facilities or campsites, trail conditions may deteriorate, and your safety is your responsibility.
- Educate yourself on the 7 LEAVE NO TRACE principles and abide by these recommendations during all activities.
- Be PATIENT and KIND with both staff and other visitors. Other visitors will likely be frustrated and park staff will be OVERWORKED and spread thin.
- Be VOCAL if you see something harmful. If you educate others, do so in a kind and gentle way not to shame them.
- See litter? PACK IT OUT. Small actions from all visitors can make big impacts.
Looking Forward
As we face new environmental challenges, Muir’s vision of preservation remains relevant. Modern park management must balance accessibility with conservation, ensuring these natural treasures endure for future generations.
Plan your next national park visit with these changes in mind, and consider joining conservation efforts to protect these precious natural spaces.
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