Georgia’s Treasured National Parks Face Massive Budget Cuts
The Trump administration’s new budget plan for 2026 could put many of Georgia’s beloved national parks in danger. These include popular places like Kennesaw Mountain, Cumberland Island, and the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park.
The plan calls for cutting $1.2 billion from the National Park Service (NPS), with $900 million coming directly from day-to-day operations. This would be the biggest funding cut in the agency’s 109-year history.
These dramatic cuts could harm more than 75% of all national parks across America, as Forbes magazine writes in their detailed report on the situation.
Changes
The changes would come after the NPS has already lost many workers. About 1,700 employees have left this year, and another 1,500 might lose their jobs soon.
Georgia has 11 national park sites that welcome visitors, preserve history, and support local economies. These special places generated $605 million for Georgia’s economy through tourism.
Theresa Pierno, President and CEO of the National Parks Conservation Association, didn’t hold back when talking about the proposed budget:
“Every action taken so far by this administration has chipped away at national parks and their staff, but this budget is the final blow. If enacted by Congress, our national park system would be completely decimated.”
Not just places on the map
She also emphasized why parks matter to all Americans: “Our national parks aren’t just places on a map. They’re our shared legacy, safeguarding the beauty, history and culture of our country.”
Pierno called for immediate action, stating: “Silence is complicity. Congress must get off the sidelines and act now. Every member of Congress must stand up and reject this reckless proposal.”
The government hasn’t said exactly which parks might close or lose funding. While Interior Secretary Burgum ordered that all parks must stay open during posted hours, it’s unclear how this would work with fewer staff and less money.
More than just protect nature and history
These parks do more than just protect nature and history – they create jobs and support small towns. In 2023, national parks helped support 415,400 jobs nationwide.
Congress will soon start reviewing the president’s budget. People who want to save Georgia’s national parks are encouraged to contact their representatives right away.
