News.bytes Extra, issue 497

Vandals spoil the fun…again.

Law Enforcement Rangers from the BLM El Centro Field Office discovered graffiti damage to the large welcome sign at Superstition Mountain OHV Open Area. The heavily spray-painted signs and stone foundation were discovered during a routine patrol.  Nearby road signs were also defaced.

 
Graffiti-scarred sign and foundation. 

The large truncated sign is one of many that identify public lands within the resource area.  Superstition Mountain is a popular OHV recreation area located west of El Centro, featuring 13,000 acres of mixed terrain.  With the off-roading season about to gear up in October, the sign will need some extensive repair, if not replacement.  Outdoor Recreation Planner Dallas Meeks hopes the signs can be fixed, “Replacing these signs will cost thousands of dollars.  It’s an eyesore and a sad beginning to a new season.”

A kiosk donated by San Diego 4 Wheelers was also tagged.

Visitors witnessing vandalism in progress are encouraged to call 911 and report it.  If possible, and from a safe distance, try to obtain vehicle and license plate information and descriptions of persons involved.  Never try to stop the offenders.  Visitors who discover vandalism after the fact should report it to the El Centro Field Office at 760-337-4400.

Joya Szalwinski, interpretive park ranger, BLM El Centro Field Office - Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area, 8/30/11

BLM-California News.bytes, issue 497 -- To subscribe to News.bytes, send an e-mail to: mailto:Join-Newsbytes@List.ca.blm.gov OR visit our News.bytes subscription page.