Layoffs Concern Minidoka National Historical Site

JEROME, Idaho (KMVT/KSVT) — As many federal workers across the country are being laid off by the government, historical site officials are worried what this could mean for their areas.

At the Minidoka National Historical Site, stats from the National Park Service show more than 18,000 visitors came through the area. What helps the site run efficiently is the park rangers. However, the mass layoff of federal workers due to their probationary status is causing great concern among Friends of Minidoka officials.

“Sadly we found out this weekend that one of the park rangers at Minidoka was fired because of their status as a probationary employee. And this person is an exceptional park ranger,” Robyn Achilles, the executive director said.

Achilles said their group was able to hire the ranger to fill an open position. She’s concerned that losing one ranger can make a difference for their visitor center staffing.

“We have, currently three staff, but with the loss of this park ranger, we’re only gonna have two park rangers who are available to open the visitors center and also provide tours to the public,” Achilles said.

Achilles added this also has an impact on other south Idaho parks.

“Craters of the Moon, Hagerman Fossil Beds and Minidoka National Historical Site, they all actually share some staffing across the three sites. So that’s why we are also concerned not only about any firing at Minidoka, but we are also concerned about the other sites as well, because it would have, potentially have impact on Minidoka,” Achilles said.

Achilles said this could impact when and how long they can open for during the summer season. She added that their group has contacted their Idaho Congressional Delegation and voiced their concerns about the layoffs.

For now, all the Friends of Minidoka can do is to keep an eye on the situation and hope for a positive resolution.