1A The Future Of America's National Parks
Apr 8, 2025
Sam Peterson, a former park ranger, shares his experience of being laid off during budget cuts and the impact on national parks. Marissa Ortega-Welch highlights the reliance on seasonal staff and safety concerns faced by parks. Deb Haaland discusses the critical role of national parks and the implications of staffing shortages on conservation efforts. The conversation delves into how these cuts could affect visitor experiences, park management, and the future of these treasured natural spaces.
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A Park Ranger's Story
- A caller recounts their experience as a park ranger, retiring after 36 years.
- They describe the stress current employees face and the love for their job, despite modest pay.
Sam's Path to Park Rangering
- Sam Peterson, a former park ranger, shares his story of becoming a ranger.
- He transitioned from being a social studies teacher after an internship sparked his passion.
Termination Day
- Sam describes being notified of his termination on February 14th through an email.
- The email came from someone he'd never met, citing performance issues, despite Sam's belief in his good work.