Joshua Tree National Park makes it easier for us to report graffiti and vandalism
Historical sites such as this one on the Wall Street Mill trail, have been extensively vandalized in recent months.
With increased annual visitation rising in only a few years from 1.4 million people to 2.5 million people, Joshua Tree National Park, along with some of the surrounding infrastructure, has experienced increased stresses. One critical issue the park has been facing has been that of vandalism, theft, and graffiti, ranging from attempted theft of historical items such as the Bagley Stone, to self-obsessed artists and Instagram vandals.
Joshua Tree National Park Superintendent David Smith notes, "99 percent of visitors are respectful and truly appreciate the pristine scenery the [ark has to offer. Unfortunately there are visitors who feel it necessary to damage what Mother Nature has produced."
The park is asking for the public's help in reporting and reducing the incidence of graffiti, vandalism, and theft. Park rangers ask visitors to report incidents of graffiti they may encounter within the park to a new email address: jotr_graffiti@nps.gov. In addition to the new email address, new graffiti reporting forms will be available at park visitor centers and entrance stations.
When reporting graffiti, try to provide a detailed description of the location and graffiti, and when possible, include photos and GPS coordinates to help ensure a quick response.
Related stories:
http://www.sunrunnersw.com/single-post/2016/06/16/Help-Stop-Vandalism-in-our-National-Parks
You won't see the Bagley Stone along the Wall Street Mill trail any more. After it was vandalized and an attempt made to possibly steal the stone, it has been moved out of the park for safekeeping.