Volcano National Park Closed...

[sputnut]

Gotta love those greedy bums in DC, huh?

comin' your way soon!

[Carey]

I was talking with a couple of my National Park friends last evening, & they didn't have an answer to this (most likely because they are not directly connected to HVNP)
What happens to the in-resident Volunteers In Parks at Volcano during this shutdown?

These are volunteers from around the globe that stay in the park for the length of their volunteer stint (usually a season).

I have this question because I had heard that all of the VIPs on the Appalachian Trail were terminated for the shutdown yesterday, plus we have had a couple of these VIPs stay at our ohana prior to & after their volunteer stint. I cannot image what it would be like to be volunteer here & suddenly be without a place...& from everything I can find, it seems that they would not be able to stay, as the work they do is specifically a part of the shutdown & it seems that the park will not have anyone living in it after midnight....including all of the lodge & campers...

Normally I would call the parks volunteer line with a question like this...but that is not an option with the shutdown...

[jackson]

Really? Really? I strongly disagree that this is a good thing.

[ericlp]

actually some of leaders think it's a good thing too. Sad really.

I wonder what hilo and the economy would be like if it wasn't for Volcano's national park. I wouldn't be surprised if accounted for half the money coming in to support our economy.

[Bullwinkle]

begs the question why the feds own the park..... seems like a local management may be more streamlined.... how long was the volcano house closed because the feds wanted an exorbitantly high of a piece of the action?

we dont need no stinkin feds - grin

[Kelena]

Wow. I had no idea that I could be "domineering" to a volcano. Now that I know this, I will be more bold.

Provided the park reopens.

[Bullwinkle]

I am easily confused why is the federal government running a tourist attraction?

[rainyjim]

Carey, I know all of the current term volunteers at HAVO and have been unable to get a hold of them(at the moment), but am waiting for a reply...I'll post back when I get one.

Bullwinkle, The American people own the National Park System and the NPS is a branch of the Department of the Interior which focuses on preserving and providing ease of access to the national parks. So, the NPS has been given the responsibility to protect and preserve.

I think it's great this is an aspect of our federal government, it is easily one of the most positive aspects of our government.

Added for bullwinkle, and anyone else interested:


NPS Mission Statement:
“The National Park Service preserves unimpaired the natural and cultural resources and values of the national park system for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of this and future generations. The park service cooperates with partners to extend the benefits of natural and cultural resource conservation and outdoor recreation throughout this country and the world.”

NPS Mission:
In 2016, the National Park Service will celebrate 100 years as steward of the Nation’s most cherished natural and cultural resources. As the keeper of 397 park units, 23 national scenic and national historic trails, and 58 wild and scenic rivers, NPS is charged with preserving these lands and historic features that were designated by the Nation for their cultural and historic significance, scenic and environmental worth, and educational and recreational opportunities. Additionally, the NPS further helps the Nation protect resources for public enjoyment that are not part of the national park system through its grant and technical assistance programs.

Hope this helps.

another aside, back in 1995-1996 during the 28 day shutdown of the federal government (clinton era) The Grand Canyon National Park was the only Park in the National Park System to remain open to visitors. This was because the State of Arizona generously picked up the tab while the Feds were shutdown. Perhaps you could suggest this to the State of Hawaii, while we are no doubt, 'broke' it is probably worth the cost in order to recoup from losses from tourism et al..

[Bullwinkle]

having dealt with the NPS - one needs to remember that the department of the interior is intended to make money from resourc

If its "our" park - why are the gates and why is it closed - wepaid the fees and have annual passes

I own a tourist attraction - dont appreciate the feds as a competitor.... I am the first to admit bias.....grin

department of interior has decimated range lands as well... Im not a tea party fool - yet I get it the feds way out of the original charter - now they play games...... enough is enough - just open the darn park - it belongs to us and we pay to get in!what a concept.....

[rainyjim]

it's true the DOI uses the NPS to make money, and it's also true HAVO is easily and by far the most profitable of all the parks... which makes a lot of sense not to shut it down if you would leave any open among all the parks.

The gates are closed because of liability, pretty much the same as ahalanui right now, right?

I hope you can re iterate that last clause(s) of yours because I didn't quite get what you were trying to say - and it sounded important.

I agree with you though, open the parks! = )

added: about paying to get in, money doesn't grow on trees right? i'm sure you're well aware of that. I just think about the entrance fee (when I go there for recreational visits) as a 'donation' to the NPS and preserving our Aina! I tend to think the same way about late fees for library books...just a donation to our library system. Both of the organizations certainly need our donations so hey what the heck...the cup is half full!

always read your posts bullwinkle, love your attitude and outlook.