How the Alt US National Parks Service is Trying to Save America

Alt National Park Service & the Political Climate
Date: Feb 7, 2024
Subject: Emergence and Activities of the Alt National Park Service in a Politically Charged Environment
Executive Summary:
Radiology mattersexamines the Alt National Park Service (AltNPS), focusing on its origins, motivations, activities, and the broader political context in which it operates. The AltNPS, initially formed in 2017 in response to perceived threats to environmental protection under the Trump administration, has re-emerged amidst concerns about government actions, particularly those involving Elon Musk and his team's influence within federal agencies. The group acts as a "resistance" movement, aiming to protect the environment, public lands, and government employees from what it views as detrimental policies and actions.
Key Themes and Ideas:
Origins and Purpose:The AltNPS emerged in 2017 following the election of Donald Trump, driven by concerns over potential environmental deregulation and suppression of scientific information. As described on their Facebook page, they are "the official 'resistance' team of U.S. National Park Service," with a mission "to stand up for the National Park Service to help protect and preserve the environment for present and future generations."The group initially utilized social media, particularly Twitter, to disseminate information and express their concerns, sometimes in defiance of official gag orders or restrictions on government communications.Concerns Regarding Government Actions and Influence:A central theme is the AltNPS's opposition to actions taken by the Trump administration and, specifically, the influence of Elon Musk and his staff within federal agencies. The AltNPS Facebook posts from early 2025 detail a range of concerns, including:Access to sensitive data: "Elon Musk now has access to your Social Security number. The world’s richest man has gained access to the confidential personal information of every taxpayer in the United States."Potential misuse of power: "An Elon Musk staffer misused the U.S. Marshals Service by falsely invoking their authority to intimidate."Workforce reductions and restructuring: "The Trump administration plans to reduce the USAID workforce from over 10,000 to around 290 positions."Rollbacks of environmental protections: "Trump announced that he plans to sign an executive order next week to end the promotion of paper straws as an alternative to plastic ones. So much for the sea turtles."Restrictions on federal employees and their communications: "Memos have been distributed to instill fear, warning federal employees that layoffs will begin if not enough people accept Elon’s buyout. This no longer feels 'voluntary'."Methods of Resistance and Advocacy:Information Dissemination: The AltNPS uses social media platforms to share information about government actions, potential threats to the environment, and resources for federal employees. They describe themselves as "a group of tree-huggers dedicated to keeping Americans informed."Call to Action: The AltNPS encourages the public to contact elected officials, spread awareness, and support their cause. "Please continue to call and spread the word."