Government Shutdown 2023 Update: Clever Strategies Keep Certain National Parks Open

Colorado Governor Jared Polis has signed an executive order directing the state's parks to remain open in the event of a government shutdown. Polis joins leaders in Utah and Arizona who have also pledged to keep national parks open amid a likely shutdown. The move comes as the closure of national parks and federal lands would harm state and local economies, small businesses, and park employees.

Estes Park, a mountain town near Colorado's Rocky Mountain National Park, is currently experiencing the vibrant colors of peak fall foliage. This natural phenomenon attracts tourists to the area, where they can witness the majestic elk bugling as part of their annual mating ritual. This wildlife spectacle, known as "Elktober," is a major draw for visitors. Meanwhile, in southern Colorado, Mesa Verde National Park is preparing for the "ring of fire eclipse" on October 14th. This rare celestial event passing through the park is expected to captivate tourists, particularly those interested in the Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings.

However, the looming 2023 government shutdown poses a significant threat to Colorado's tourism economy. In response, Governor Jared Polis has vowed to keep the national parks open, joining leaders in Utah and Arizona who are also finding creative solutions to keep their parks accessible during potential government shutdowns.

Governor Polis has issued an executive order directing the Colorado Department of Natural Resources and Colorado Parks and Wildlife to develop a plan to ensure the state's parks remain open. In Utah, Governor Spencer Cox and the Utah Office of Tourism have allocated $5 million to keep the Mighty 5 national parks (Bryce, Zion, Capitol Reef, Arches, and Canyonlands) operational. This funding will be distributed to affiliated foundations, which will support basic park operations, such as staffing visitor centers, maintaining cleanliness, and potentially continuing shuttle services in Zion and Bryce Canyon national parks. Similarly, Governor Katie Hobbs of Arizona has pledged to use Arizona Lottery dollars to keep the Grand Canyon and other state parks running.

The decision to keep these parks open is driven by economic considerations. A 2022 National Park Service Visitor Spending Effects Report reveals that visitor spending in Utah's national parks contributes $2.6 billion to the state's economy. Vicki Varela, the managing director of the Utah Office of Tourism, emphasizes that the priority is ensuring visitors have unforgettable experiences while also supporting local communities and preserving the natural environment.

If Congress fails to pass annual spending bills by October 1st, triggering a government shutdown, the Department of Interior, responsible for overseeing the national parks, has already announced that park sites across the country will close. This closure would have severe repercussions for state and local economies, small businesses, and park employees. Governor Polis highlights the significance of national parks for Colorado, with Rocky Mountain National Park being the fourth most visited national park in the country, attracting approximately 4.3 million visitors annually. Colorado's national parks, including Great Sand Dunes, Mesa Verde, and Black Canyon of the Gunnison, generate $695 million in tourism revenue each year.

Governor Polis expresses pride in Colorado's world-class outdoor attractions, including its national parks, which play a vital role in the state's economy and way of life. The commitment of leaders in Colorado, Utah, and Arizona to keep these parks accessible during potential government shutdowns demonstrates their dedication to preserving these natural wonders and supporting the tourism industry that relies on them.

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