Olympic Peninsula businesses brace for park staffing cuts [Video]

OLYMPIC PENINSULA, Wash. – Businesses on Washington State’s Olympic Peninsula are preparing for a summer impacted by staffing cuts at Olympic National Park. Concerns are growing about maintenance and visitor services as the park faces reduced staffing.

The National Parks Conservation Association has warned that fewer park rangers could lead to closed facilities and uncollected trash. “Everyone needs to know what to expect and no one knows anything right now,” a representative said.

Drew Andre reported that local businesses are adapting, with some offering discounts to Canadian tourists. Marsha Massey, Olympic Peninsula tourism director, emphasized the importance of visitors from Canada, who make up 15 to 20 percent of business. “Many of the businesses have told me that their phones have stopped ringing,” she said.

Despite these challenges, businesses like Olympic Hiking Company remain optimistic. The community is urged to practice stewardship and be prepared for potential changes in park …