Norris was removed from his post in 1882 due to political maneuvering. Three additional superintendents followed, but none proved effective in stopping the destruction of Yellowstone's magnificent natural resources.

By 1886 the park was in great danger. It was only fourteen years old, had never been adequately financed or maintained, and was no longer protected by virtue of being unknown. Poachers slaughtered the wildlife. Visitors and souvenir vendors chipped away at the geyser cones and travertine terraces. Vandals purposely set forest fires, squatters illegally occupied land within the park, and delicate thermal features became wishing wells-or trashcans. Congress, tired of the ceaseless problems, refused to allocate additional funding.