Engaged

"Trump administration contemplating national parks as livestock equating to dairy cows"

Budget reductions implemented by the U.S. government towards the National Park Service have raised concerns from its ex-director, Jonathan Jarvis, about the potential impact on these expansive lands and their dedicated workforce.

, and ASMedia

2025 September 4 . 7:59 PM

2 min read

"Trump Administration Contemplates Regarding National Parks as Cattle for Milking"

"Trump administration contemplating national parks as livestock equating to dairy cows"

In a recent interview, Jonathan Jarvis, who served as the Director of the U.S. National Park Service (NPS) from 2009 to 2017, expressed his concern over the current state of the organisation. Jarvis spent his entire career in various national parks across the United States and dedicated his career and life to preserving the NPS.

Jarvis perceives the current situation as the dismantling of the NPS. He emphasised the personal significance of the NPS to him and his colleagues, stating that the NPS tells the story of America. He associates the NPS with managing parks, monuments, and historic properties in the United States, including the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, and the Statue of Liberty.

The government's plans include cutting a third of the NPS's budget and 24% of its payroll since January. These cuts, according to Jarvis, are not acceptable and may continue the dismantling efforts of the NPS. He fears that the Trump administration's decisions may lead to the transfer of certain reserves to the private sector.

Jarvis used strong language to describe the current state of the NPS, implying that it is a significant problem. He expressed his emotional response to the situation, emphasising that the NPS is not just a collection of parks but a vital part of American history and identity.

The Trump administration encourages visitors to report any negative presentations of American history. However, Jarvis did not comment on this specific aspect in the interview. It is worth noting that Jarvis does not currently hold any position in the Trump administration related to the leadership of the U.S. National Park Service or any specific national park.

As the former Director of the NPS, Jarvis's concerns serve as a reminder of the importance of preserving and protecting the NPS for future generations. His emotional appeal underscores the significance of the NPS not just as a collection of parks but as a vital part of American history and identity.