BLM Seeking Information on Acts of Vandalism at Six Native American Rock Art Locations

The Bureau of Land Management has announced the agency is actively investigating recent acts of vandalism at six Native American rock art sites in the Bighorn Basin. 

According to the BLM, one site suffered significant damage after a bonfire was lit directly beneath a rock art panel, resulting in discoloration, cracking, and the loss of rock fragments. Additionally, the same panel and several others have been defaced with names and phrases scratched onto and around the petroglyphs. Multiple sites have also sustained damage from gunfire.  

In a news release, the BLM stated the damage to these historic and prehistoric rock art sites is irreparable. Each site is eligible for the National Register of Historic Places and is protected under the Archaeological Resources Protection Act. 

The BLM would like to remind public land users the collection or damage of any artifact over 50 years old is illegal, including damaging petroglyphs and rock art sites. Violations may result in criminal charges, including felonies, and can also be pursued through civil actions.  

“This intentional damage takes away future generations’ ability to view this part of our human history and to study these sites,” Cody Field Office Archeologist Karina Black said. 

The BLM is seeking any information from the public regarding these recent acts of vandalism. Any member of the public with information can notify the BLM Cody Field Office. 

The agency is also urging individuals who witness vandalism, artifact theft or suspicious activity on public lands to report the violation as soon as possible. Tips can be made to the Cody Field Office at 307-578-5900 or local county law enforcement.  

Historic sites on public lands are shared resources intended for everyone to enjoy. Visitors are encouraged to recreate responsibly, leave artifacts where they are found and help protect Wyoming’s shared cultural heritage.