The partial government shutdown is hurting National Parks throughout the country in terms of staffing and upkeep, including at many of our own parks here in North Carolina.
The shutdown means parks like the Blue Ridge Parkway aren't getting the government funding they need to keeping park operations running smoothly. In the Parkway's case, most parts of the attraction are closed and unsupervised. It's the same way across the country.
A WSPA report showed locals have noticed disappointed hikers and visitors from the trail. Campgrounds and picnic areas remain closed to the public.
"There’s so many people coming and going, and I just tell everybody that they’re not open," Asheville woman Susie McGuire said. "They’re all looking for a bathroom of course, and what to do on the Parkway, and there’s nobody there!"
The Folk Art Center, a few miles from the visitor's center, was one of the few places on Wednesday. The center is funded by an outside organization.
Families expressed concern over the continued shutdown, adding they hope that Congress can reach a funding deal soon.
"At the end of the day we’re all the same country, so we have to work together," said visitor Carlos Chacon.
The shutdown is also raising concerns for animals at zoos such as the Washington National Zoological Park, where thousands of animals need to be fed and cared for.
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