When politics shift, scenic land often feels the consequences first. Utah’s five national parks are vital to tourism, conservation and economic success. Because politics shape and fund parks, they suffer when politics shift. New policies put in place during President Trump’s presidency have led to the degradation of the national parks by reducing the protection of the land.
In 2021, President Trump moved to shrink Bear Ears and Grand Staircase, a decision later reversed by President Biden. As of now, President Trump is considering passing the bill again. Passing this bill could open these protected areas to mining and drilling, which will destroy mesas, plateaus and canyons which define these sacred lands. The drilling will threaten ancient indigenous sites.
On Oct. 1, the national government shut down due to Congress’s failure to pass a budget before the deadline. The shutdown is already having a negative impact on national parks. Utah parks remain open, but amenities are closed. Since parks are now low on staff, enforcing rules is more difficult, which is dangerous for visitors and the parks. Trash is piling up, trails ignored, ecosystems trampled, and wildlife harmed.
Tourism drives Utah’s economy, and closure threatens jobs and local stability. If parks remain low on staff or inaccessible in Utah, locals will face job loss and instability. This could show a rapid decline in Utah’s local economies.
Supporters of this believe that it will open up more opportunities for jobs and economic growth. While these goals may offer short-term economic benefits, they come with a long-term cost of degradation and cultural loss. Opening these lands to drilling and mining will put fragile ecosystems and indigenous sites at risk, as well as the tourism that boosts these communities. Damage to these ancient sites is irreversible.
Grace Wicks, Salt Lake City