'Every Unit Out There is a Treasure': National Parks cry for help amid $12 billion deferred maintenance

"Visitors should come away with the feeling that this is a treasure." These were the potent words from Dr. Gil Lusk, retired National Park Service employee and author, encapsulating the critical need for attention and support to our nation's precious parks, as reported by Mashable back in 2019.

The picturesque landscapes of our national parks are not just sources of wonder; they are intrinsic parts of our nation's heritage. Yet, with nearly $12 billion worth of deferred maintenance, the parks' infrastructure was in a desperate state. These dire circumstances resulted from budget constraints, forcing the National Park System to postpone crucial upkeep. The Washington Post also reported a diversion of almost $2.5 million in entrance and recreation fees, intended for park improvements, to fund President Trump's Fourth of July celebration on the National Mall.

"Every unit out there is a treasure, and it’s a treasure to our future," Lusk remarked, underlining the value and importance of these natural wonders.

For the national parks to continue inspiring awe and preserve their legacy for generations to come, they need our support. Here are some ways you could contribute:

1. Leave no trace: Preserve the natural beauty by carrying out whatever you bring in and not disturbing the wildlife. As Lusk advises, consult with park employees for specific guidelines.
2. Donate: Monetary donations can directly support parks. Platforms like the National Park Service website allow you to donate to your favorite park. Lusk recommended organizations like the National Park Foundation and the National Parks and Conservation Association (NPCA) as worthy recipients.
3. Immerse yourself in the community: Spending time in the areas surrounding the parks can boost the local economy and give you a chance to explore multiple parks.
4. Start a conversation: Advocate for funding national parks by reaching out to your congressperson and spreading the word within your community.

"It’s important that living treasures get stuck in people’s minds," Lusk asserted, urging for continuous engagement and conversations about the state of our national parks. These living treasures are in peril, and it's high time we rise to their defense.

(Several parts of the text in this article, including the title, were generated with the help of an AI tool.)