The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is actively investigating a series of vandalism incidents at six Native American rock art sites located in the Bighorn Basin, Wyoming. These sites, which hold significant historical and cultural value, have suffered extensive damage, prompting the BLM to seek public assistance in identifying those responsible.
Irreparable Damage to Historic Sites
According to the BLM, one of the sites experienced severe damage when a bonfire was lit directly beneath a rock art panel. This act resulted in discoloration, cracking, and the loss of rock fragments. Additionally, the same panel and several others have been defaced with names and phrases scratched into and around the petroglyphs. Multiple sites have also sustained damage from gunfire, further compounding the loss.
These rock art sites are eligible for the National Register of Historic Places and are protected under the Archaeological Resources Protection Act. The BLM has emphasized that the damage to these historic and prehistoric sites is irreparable, and any act of vandalism or artifact collection over 50 years old is illegal. Violations can lead to criminal charges, including felonies, and may also be pursued through civil actions.
Call for Public Assistance
Cody Field Office Archeologist Karina Black expressed concern over the intentional damage, stating, “This intentional damage takes away future generations’ ability to view this part of our human history and to study these sites.” The BLM is urging anyone with information regarding these acts of vandalism to contact the Cody Field Office. They are also encouraging individuals who witness vandalism, artifact theft, or suspicious activity on public lands to report such violations promptly.
Historic sites on public lands are shared resources meant for everyone to enjoy. Visitors are encouraged to recreate responsibly, leave artifacts where they are found, and help protect Wyoming’s shared cultural heritage. Tips can be made to the Cody Field Office at 307-578-5900 or through local county law enforcement.
Original reporting: Sheridan Media (Sheridan WY) — read the source article.
