Nearly 600 National Park Employees in California Unionize

Park employees at three of California’s most iconic national parks — Yosemite, Sequoia and Kings Canyon — have voted overwhelmingly to unionize. According to the National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE), more than 97% of eligible staff supported the move in an election held between July 22 and August 19.

The vote adds roughly 600 new members to NFFE, including park rangers, firefighters, fee collectors, researchers, educators, and first responders. Union leaders say the timing of the election, held during peak summer season, ensured that both permanent and seasonal employees had the opportunity to participate.

By joining the union, workers gain a stronger voice in decisions that impact their jobs and the parks they help protect. NFFE officials emphasized that unionizing will allow employees to advocate for better resources, staffing, and protections at a time when federal agencies face budget cuts and workforce reductions.

“Employees now have the power to make significant changes to benefit themselves and their colleagues,” said NFFE National President Randy Erwin. He added that the union will continue working to defend employees’ rights and secure resources to support the essential work of stewarding America’s public lands.

The Federal Labor Relations Authority certified the results on August 28, officially bringing hundreds of Yosemite, Sequoia and Kings Canyon staff under the union umbrella. For the employees who help keep these world-famous parks running, the vote marks a new chapter in their role as both protectors and advocates of California’s natural treasures.