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Dee Takes Charge: New Leadership Amid Park Service Struggles

1/12/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Dee trained to join the Backcountry Unit Search and Rescue (BUSAR) team in Alaska.
After the second tryout, Dee excelled in technical rescue.
Dee became vice-president of BUSAR.
Dee replaced the Smokies’ medical director, emphasizing a hands-on approach.
The National Park Service faces a maintenance backlog and a 24% staff reduction, hindering its ability to manage increased visitors, and Phil Francis calls it "death by a thousand cuts".

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Story summary

Dee trained to join the Backcountry Unit Search and Rescue (BUSAR) team in Alaska.
After the second tryout, Dee excelled in technical rescue.
Dee became vice-president of BUSAR.
Dee replaced the Smokies’ medical director, emphasizing a hands-on approach.
The National Park Service faces a maintenance backlog and a 24% staff reduction, hindering its ability to manage increased visitors, and Phil Francis calls it "death by a thousand cuts".