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Government Shutdown

Shawn

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Do you still hike on federal public land during the government shutdown?

Some people won't because they say it's not fair on returning workers.

How do you feel about this situation?
 
I haven't during this shutdown, but it won't stop me if I get the opportunity to go unless they officially close an area. I understand that there won't be the services at some places that there are normally. I can even understand that some popular spots may be closed completely due to safety and sanitation concerns. I'm not likely to go to any of those places right now anyway, but I do sympathize with people who had plans that were affected and also for the workers who are furloughed.
 
I haven't during this shutdown, but it won't stop me if I get the opportunity to go unless they officially close an area. I understand that there won't be the services at some places that there are normally. I can even understand that some popular spots may be closed completely due to safety and sanitation concerns. I'm not likely to go to any of those places right now anyway, but I do sympathize with people who had plans that were affected and also for the workers who are furloughed.
I agree.

If anything though, I'll go out to the popular spots (if open) and collect any litter to help out while workers can't get out there.
 
I have plans to hike in Shawnee NF in a few weeks. If the shutdown is still in effect, we won't camp on federal land and will be a bit more active in picking up litter than usual.
 
I think this may continue for some time. I could say more, but I don't want to get too political.

If the shutdown is still in effect, we won't camp on federal land
If any areas are outright closed, then obviously nobody should ignore the closures. If they are still officially open, on the other hand, I don't have a problem going there and even camping during the shutdown.

The way I look at it, it's public land just like our streets, highways, and public buildings. Clearly, from time to time, public places have to be closed for various reasons. I can understand the closure of certain developed recreational facilities or sensitive natural or archeological areas where the lack of staff during the shutdown could result in sanitation concerns, vandalism or other crime, or ecological damage. Where I would be unhappy would be if there was a blanket closure imposed for no valid reason or as a political response.

Most of the facilities in the Shawnee, including self-service campgrounds, really are not going to be much affected unless the shutdown drags on for months. This is especially true if people realize there aren't going to be normal services like trash, water, restroom cleaning, or mowing. Those who approach it as if it were a step up from primitive dispersed camping won't have any problems. Pack it in, pack it out because there won't be anyone payed to pick up litter. Going the extra step of packing out the trash left behind by others, as you advocate, is good. If the public lands can be kept as tidy and undamaged as possible during the shutdown, that will take away most reasons for closure.
 
My thing is this: If it's public land, then the public should be able to access it. If the fed shuts down, can I quit paying federal taxes? No. So, why would I quit visiting land that I pay for?

I won't go past closed barriers but I'll definitely and publicly argue against them.
 
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