Locals share sequestration concerns at CO. Nat’l Monument

Throughout the country, national parks may be forced to reduce hours and services.  Not just at parks, but all facilities operated by the Department of Interior.

A group of local residents say the cuts will harm communities, like theirs, that depend on tourism to support the economy.

They’re protesting to highlight the devastating affects they say will come with the automatic cuts.

“If they continue to fight and continue to do sequestering, than we will not be able to enjoy the beauties,” Jeanette Hensley said.

“I think that it’s really import and we protect that because this is what lasts for decades and generations,” Chani Chapps said.  “To throw it away because politicians can't agree on something seems really silly.”

The people gathered outside the Colorado National Monument on Friday are calling on local lawmakers to protect the landmark.

Federal spending is scheduled to be cut by billions. 

Officials have said the 5-percent reduction to parks will actually feel like a 10-percent change due to a shortened time frame.  With the fiscal year half over, those changes will have to happen at a rapid pace.