Dear National Park Advocate,

National parks have always been an enormous part of my life. They embody what's best in America and they bring out the best in us.

But as this public health crisis continues to take its toll on America, parks are becoming too dangerous -- for visitors and for the people who care for them. Park rangers are coming into contact with hundreds of people every day, personal protective equipment is being rationed and park staff are calling out sick because they no longer feel safe going to work.

It's time to close the parks to protect staff and help slow the pandemic. Interior Secretary David Bernhardt must take this drastic step for the good of his employees and for the good of our communities.

Please add your voice now by sending a message to Interior Secretary Bernhardt. Tell him that as a park advocate and a supporter of National Park Service staff, you want parks closed right away.

It's troubling that Secretary Bernhardt has shown no sense of urgency in responding to the desperate pleas of park staff to close their parks. As park advocates, it's up to all of us to convince him to do the right thing, right away.

The parks will be there for us all once we get through this crisis, just as they've always been, and we all look forward to the day when we can enjoy them together once again. But for now, we ask that park lovers support park rangers by staying home -- and please send a message to Secretary Bernhardt today.

All of us at NPCA appreciate the support of our advocates and allies during this time, and we send our heartfelt concern to all affected.

Sincerely,

Theresa Pierno
President & CEO