EMPIRE — The federal government shutdown is affecting national parks around the country, including Northern Michigan’s Sleeping Bear Dunes.
Despite a large portion of employees being furloughed and the visitors center closing, normal operations are expected to continue.
Glen Haven Historic Village will be closed throughout the shutdown, but the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive and the Dune Climb will remain open. All campgrounds in the area will also be open with rangers and law enforcement present to ensure safety.
The biggest impact of the shutdown will not significantly affect visitors but rather the allocation of fee dollars. While some employees are currently furloughed, those continuing to work will be paid with fee dollars.
Traditionally, these fee dollars have been used to fund future projects at Sleeping Bear Dunes, but they will now be used to pay employees until a new budget is passed.