The Balance Between Social Distancing And Time Outside

Published: Wednesday, April 1, 2020 - 5:29pm
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Laurel Morales/KJZZ
The Grand Canyon.

At least seven people who work at Grand Canyon National Park have now tested positive for the coronavirus. It comes at a time when there is mounting pressure on the Trump administration to close the park. Arizona Representative Raul Grijalva, who chairs the House Natural Resources Committee, has called for the closure, telling The Arizona Republic “it’s time for a more serious federal response.” 

The Hill reports the Parks service has closed more than 100 sites including Yellowstone, Grand Teton and Great Smoky Mountains. But, many remain open. And, as we’re all being asked to stay away from others, the outdoors seem like one of the best places to go – unless everyone else has that same thought at the same time. 

So, how can we strike that balance between getting outside and enjoying the beauty of the outdoors in these trying times, and keep everyone who works and loves these places safe?

For that, The Show talked to Aaron Divine, a Senior Lecturer in Geography, Planning and Recreation at Northern Arizona University.

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