A Letter from the Executive Director
On February 14, more than 1,000 National Park Service (NPS) staff lost their jobs, including dedicated team members at the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway. These staff are more than a number. They are the welcoming smile at a visitor center, the teacher passing down learnings to younger generations, and the dedicated professionals ensuring safe and equitable exploration for all visitors. If federal hiring freezes and workforce reductions continue, essential park programs, visitor services, and conservation efforts will be even more seriously impacted.
Our partners at the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway are the guardians of one of the nation’s most treasured waterways. They protect its rich history, preserve its natural beauty, safeguard wildlife, and inspire visitors of all ages. Their work is vital to maintaining the ecological integrity and accessibility of this incredible resource. As the official nonprofit partner of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, Wild Rivers Conservancy is asking for your support.
National parks, including the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, have already been operating with limited staff. According to the National Parks Conservation Association, the NPS workforce has declined by 20% since 2010, while park visitation has surged by 16%. For every dollar Congress invests in national parks, more than $15 is generated for local economies. Underfunding our parks not only threatens conservation efforts but also hurts the communities and businesses that rely on them.
Though the Department of the Interior has reversed its plans to cut 5,000 seasonal NPS positions, the future remains uncertain. It is unclear when the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway can begin hiring the 20-25 seasonal staff critical for operations ahead of the busy summer season. Seasonal employees play an essential role in visitor programs, wildlife monitoring, campsite maintenance, and preserving the riverway’s pristine condition. Without them, both conservation efforts and the visitor experience will suffer.
How You Can Help
Contact your representatives and urge them to prioritize funding for the National Park Service. Park rangers, natural resource staff, maintenance crews, and educators need your voice. Ask Congress to reverse cuts and restore critical staff positions that keep our parks thriving.
Our river communities rely on a healthy and accessible riverway. Fishing and hunting guides, outfitters, canoe and kayak rentals, paddle boat operators, restaurants, campground and lodging providers all play a vital role in welcoming and supporting park visitors. Their services will be even more critical if park operations continue to diminish.
Support our work
A vital gift to Wild Rivers Conservancy of the St. Croix & Namekagon helps protect and advocate for the St Croix National Scenic Riverway. Your support ensures that we can continue our work in conservation, education, and community engagement alongside the National Park Service.
Practice leave no trace
With fewer staff in the field, we all must take greater responsibility for protecting the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway. Follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact and keep our national park pristine.
What remains constant through all this change is our shared love for the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway. Wild Rivers Conservancy is committed to ensuring this extraordinary place remains protected, accessible, and cherished for generations to come. Together, we can safeguard its future.
Thank you for standing with us in protecting the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway.