Editor,

Recently, I worked alongside other volunteers from National Parks Conservation Association, The Mission Continues and the U.S. Navy clearing brush and building a trail at Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve. The work was tough and the weather brisk, but the coffee and feeling of community were strong.

The National Park Service depends on volunteer work to help maintain its parks and reserves. Roy Zipp, the lone National Parks Service staffer at Ebey’s Landing and an administrative team struggle to maintain the historical site due to a lack of congressional funding. National park sites across the country have backlog needs adding up to $12 billion.

While all of those who volunteered on Monday will continue to do our part, it is essential that Congress also do its part to fund our parks. There is opportunity here; at his congressional hearing, Interior Secretary nominee Ryan Zinke indicated his intentions to address the maintenance backlog. Washington’s senators and representatives must work with the new administration and Congress to ensure park managers have the resources and support needed to continue protecting America’s favorite places.

Ian Reid

Seattle