BLM offering reward for information on Big Bend Boulders suspected vandalism
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MOAB, Utah — The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is offering up to $1,000 for information leading to the identification and conviction of those responsible for greasing the handholds at the Big Bend Bouldering Area, managed by the Moab Field Office. On Feb. 14, the BLM was notified that petroleum-based grease was smeared on the climbing handholds at the popular recreation area north of Moab along the Colorado River in Grand County.
“It is up to each of us to help keep public lands safe and clean for future generations,” said BLM Moab Field Manager Nicollee Gaddis-Wyatt. “Our employees are out on public lands every day, cleaning bathrooms, maintaining trails, and engaging with the visitors. Even so, we don’t see everything. When incidents occur, we appreciate the public’s help in reporting information to the BLM’s law enforcement team.”
Anyone with information about this investigation or other incidents on BLM-managed public lands is asked to call the tip line at 435-259-2131. Callers may remain anonymous.
The Big Bend Bouldering Area is located upstream of the Big Bend Campground along the Colorado River and State Route 128, about 10 miles from Moab. The bouldering area has been popular with climbers for more than 20 years, who benefit from its easy access, density of boulders with problems of varying difficulties, and relatively flat landings. In addition to climbing and bouldering opportunities, visitors to this area can also enjoy camping, hiking, rafting, scenic driving, wildlife viewing, and other recreation opportunities.
Public domain photos can be accessed on the BLM’s Flickr site: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjzCSiP.
The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.