Volunteers Try To Keep National Parks From Getting Trashed During Shutdown

ESTES PARK CO - DECEMBER 27: The Cambareri family visiting from Cape Cod, Massachusetts walk into Rocky Mountain National Park while roads are closed due to a government shutdown on December 27, 2018 in Estes Park, C... ESTES PARK CO - DECEMBER 27: The Cambareri family visiting from Cape Cod, Massachusetts walk into Rocky Mountain National Park while roads are closed due to a government shutdown on December 27, 2018 in Estes Park, Colorado. Visitors are able to walk into the park but not drive their vehicles. (Photo by RJ Sangosti/The Denver Post via Getty Images) MORE LESS
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Many national parks have remained open but largely unstaffed during the shutdown, leaving volunteers to fill the void and protect the parks from litter, unusable bathrooms and damage.

According to a Tuesday Washington Post report, the shutdown has hurt local businesses too that operate in conjunction to the parks, like concession stands and bed and breakfasts.

Devoid of rangers, the parks have seen local employees and park aficionados pitching in to donate toilet paper and pick up trash.

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