Sequestration Cuts Force Nonprofits to Prop Up Wyo. National Parks

Foundations and generous donors have largely kept national parks afloat this summer as federal budget cuts continue to drain park resources and their capacity to serve tourists, writes the Casper Star-Tribune.

In the wake of the 5-percent budget cuts that went into effect on March 1, private donations have supplemented national parks’ budgets. The nonprofit Grand Teton Association, gave $1-million last year to the Grand Teton National Park, which equaled 78 percent of the association’s net revenue. But Jan Lynch, executive director of the association, said their donation was a one-time thing as they can’t afford to do the same next year.

Grand Teton’s budget was $13-million before sequestration. This year it is $11.8-million, and it will likely be the same for 2014.