Photo: Robert Holmes / Corbis Documentary / Getty Images
Yosemite National Park is experiencing a surge in illegal activities as a result of the ongoing federal government shutdown that began on October 1. With limited ranger patrols, squatters have taken over campgrounds, and visitors are flouting park rules, according to a park employee who spoke to SFGATE.
“There are lots of squatters in the campgrounds,” the employee told SFGATE. “There are lots of people that truly believe they can do whatever they want because of the lack of rangers. They’ve told us.”
The shutdown has left Yosemite with significantly reduced staff, making it difficult to enforce regulations designed to protect both visitors and the park's natural resources. Illegal BASE jumping from El Capitan and climbing Half Dome without permits have become more frequent, as reported by KTLA. BASE jumping, banned in all national parks due to safety concerns, has seen a resurgence as thrill-seekers take advantage of the lack of enforcement.
The National Park Service (NPS) has faced criticism for keeping parks partially open during the shutdown, which some argue is reckless. Bill Wade, director at the Association of National Park Rangers, told Newsweek that the current situation was predictable given the reduced staffing levels.
As the shutdown continues with no resolution in sight, the safety of both visitors and the park's environment remains a concern. Emergency services are limited, and the NPS has warned that activities necessary to protect life and property will continue, but with reduced capacity.