Public land vandalism shifts resources away from recreation improvements

RAWLINS, Wyo. — The Bureau of Land Management Rawlins Field Office is asking the public to help protect recreation infrastructure on Wyoming’s public lands after a recent vandalism incident at the Continental Divide Campground (McCarty Canyon turnoff), where a vault toilet sustained significant damage from gunfire. 

The incident damaged the vault toilet’s frame, door, hardware and other infrastructure, resulting in repair and replacement costs estimated at approximately $5,550.00. The damage has now created additional maintenance demands for BLM staff and taken away funds set aside for other recreation projects. 

“These vaults are the newest and nicest in the entire Rawlins Field Office.  They are routinely praised by the public on their cleanliness and overall appearance. Had somebody been in there using those facilities, it could have been fatal.  We ask the public to help protect these taxpayer-funded facilities by reporting those who produce these illegal actions on our public lands.” said Andy Williams, outdoor recreation planner with the BLM Rawlins Field Office. 

Vandalism and destruction of public infrastructure on federal lands can result in costly repairs funded by taxpayer dollars. Recreation site maintenance, repairs and replacements divert funding and staff time away from other public land priorities, including trail maintenance, facility improvements, habitat work and visitor services. 

The BLM reminds visitors that damaging federal property is illegal and may result in fines, restitution and criminal penalties under federal law. 

Public lands and recreation facilities are shared resources intended for everyone to safely enjoy. Visitors are encouraged to recreate responsibly and report vandalism or suspicious activity to the Rawlins Field Office at 307-328-4200 or local county law enforcement. 

For more information, contact the Rawlins Field Office at [email protected].