Jeff Hunter on Defending Our National Parks

Jeff Hunter is the Southern Appalachian Director with National Parks Conservation Association, which is dedicated to enhancing and protecting public lands for present and future generations.Twenty-five years ago, a thru hike on the Appalachian Trail set Jeff—then working in telecommunications in New York—down a new career path focused on conservation. Today, he’s based in Burnsville, North Carolina, and his work focuses on Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and the Appalachian National Scenic Trail. Later in this episode, Jeff shares details on an avian study and a collaborative project focused on improving wildlife’s ability to safely cross Interstate 40 in the Pigeon River Gorge.But first, we focus on urgent issues: the impact of the Trump Administration’s mass firing of federal workers, including those in the National Park Service, and the status of recovery efforts in the wake of Hurricane Helene.Important LinksNational Parks Conservation AssociationCongressman Chuck Edwards Washington, D.C. office: (202) 225-6401Senator Ted BuddWashington, D.C. office: 202-224-3154Senator Thom TillisWashington, D.C. office: (202) 224-6342