Brian Gibbs, an environmental educator at Effigy Mounds National Monument in northeast Iowa, was recently informed of his termination, a decision that has left him heartbroken and devastated. Gibbs, who described his role as his "dream job," was one of approximately 1,000 employees of the National Park Service (NPS) who were laid off amid significant federal workforce reductions.
The announcement of Gibbs’ termination came on Valentine’s Day, a day he had hoped to celebrate with his family. Instead, he faced the harsh reality of losing a position he held for only eight months, during which he had received high marks in performance evaluations. His abrupt dismissal was part of a broader strategy by the federal government, driven by the Trump administration and advisor Elon Musk, to cut spending by targeting probationary workers—new hires who are subject to a trial period before achieving full employment status.
Gibbs expressed concern over the impact of these layoffs on national parks, particularly as they head into the busy spring season. Advocates for the parks have voiced similar worries, suggesting that the staffing cuts could lead to inadequate maintenance of park facilities and reduced educational outreach. Gibbs emphasized the critical nature of his work, which included leading guided hikes and educating youth about environmental stewardship. He fears that without adequate staffing, smaller parks may struggle to remain open or adequately serve visitors.
The Effigy Mounds National Monument, designated in 1949, is home to over 200 ancient Native American burial and ceremonial mounds, many of which are shaped like animals. These mounds, built between 650 and 1200 AD, are not only significant archaeological sites but also serve as cultural touchstones for many families, including Gibbs’, who has deep personal ties to the area.
Gibbs reflected on the emotional weight of losing his job, noting that the park holds special memories for him, from family trips to moments of personal significance. He is now faced with the challenge of finding a new job to support his growing family, as his wife is expecting their second child. The limited opportunities in environmental education add to his anxiety about the future.
The National Parks Conservation Association has criticized the recent staff cuts as "reckless," warning of potential risks to public safety and the preservation of natural resources. Gibbs echoed these concerns, stating that the loss of personnel could lead to increased littering and vandalism in the parks.
As the community grapples with the ramifications of these layoffs, Gibbs remains hopeful that the public will recognize the value of national parks and the importance of maintaining adequate staffing to protect these treasured spaces for future generations.