Bull Shoals Lake a popular tourist destination in the summer months. Corps photo
Despite federal workforce reductions, local permanent jobs at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in the Twin Lakes Area are expected to remain largely unaffected although a hiring freeze could effect the seasonal workforce locally, according to Jay Townsend, Chief of Public Affairs for the Army Corps of Engineers Little Rock District.
During a recent interview with KTLO News, Townsend confirmed that while 1,068 employees nationwide were offered a deferred resignation program, local impacts will be minimal.
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While permanent jobs remain stable, the Corps’ hiring freeze will affect seasonal workers vital to local parks and recreation.
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The freeze, in place for weeks now, could impact the 40 to 60 seasonal workers typically hired district-wide which covers 12 different water areas including the Twin Lakes. These workers handle longer shifts and support park rangers. Townsend stated that staff would have to be pulled from other duties like shoreline work to help support recreation into the summer.
With spring break approaching, immediate disruptions are unlikely since seasonal hiring typically starts later. However, peak summer recreation could be affected if the hiring freeze continues. Summer is when campsites and swim beaches remain full and extra resources are often needed to handle the demand.
The Corp remains hopeful the freeze will be lifted before summer operations are significantly impacted but despite staffing challenges, Townsend assured the community they remain committed to service.
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