More than 35 former National Park superintendents are urging that the parks be fully closed in the event of a government shutdown. Among them, Acadia's former superintendent Sheridan Steele.

Steele said there would be no staff on duty to handle trash or clean restrooms, to prevent damage to grounds and habitat by visitors who go off trail or provide updated safety information.

It's a difficult decision, he said, especially since October is a peak time for fall foliage.

"That's one of the most popular times to visit national parks like Acadia, and it's just really unfortunate to disrupt visitors, but we have to do it, I think, in order to protect both the visitor and the parks," Steele said.

Unless a funding bill is passed, the government will shut down at 11:59 tomorrow night.

Steele

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