National Parks Shutdown Hits Student Club
Video by cxie
Over 400 federally run parks and attractions remain closed as congressional leaders engage in negotiations to resolve funding appropriations.
The closure of parks has had a direct impact not only on park employees but also hikers, campers, tourists, and the businesses that cater to them.
SC Outfitters, a student-run outdoor adventure group, relies on many of the parks resources for their outdoor activities.
Ian Ritchey, a senior, said almost all of the group’s activities in the parks are on hold, including climbing, backpacking, and hiking.
Ritchey explained the group is having a difficult time planning next month’s activities without knowing when the parks will reopen.
“We’re just hoping for the best,” he said.
Ritchey also expressed his concern for another recent issue brought up with the shutdown—missing person searches coming to a halt in the parks.
“It’s pretty scary stuff right now,” he said.
