BANGOR DAILY NEWS • October 6, 2025
As the ongoing federal shutdown approaches a full week, concerns are growing about its economic impact on Acadia National Park and Mount Desert Island. Last October, Acadia collected about $1.5 million in fees that it stands to miss out on this month if the shutdown continues for the next few weeks, according to Friends of Acadia. But how long the shutdown might last — and how much income the park will lose — is not the only question that has observers scratching their heads. Last week, information about the federal shutdown effects on the park changed daily, though the park’s current conditions alerts on its website have not changed since Friday. Bo Jennings, president of the Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce, said that though both Acadia and Bar Harbor remain busy with tourists, things could be better. He said visitors have felt frustrated at not having park staff on hand to offer guidance or other assistance, and with the haphazard manner that information has been released or changed. Even so, people have been happy they can enter the park and that the weather has been good for being outside, he said.