As the possibility of a government shutdown looms, former national park superintendents are calling on the Trump administration to close national parks to prevent chaos and damage, similar to what occurred during the last shutdown. With significant concerns about the impact on local economies and the potential for increased risks to park visitors and the environment, retired leaders are advocating for preemptive measures. While some communities, like those in Utah, are vowing to keep parks open, the consensus among former park officials is that closing the parks is necessary to safeguard these natural treasures from being overwhelmed during a federal funding gap.