BLM seeks public help and information on Shinob Kibe vandalism in Washington County
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ST. GEORGE, Utah—The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is asking for help identifying the individual(s) who vandalized public lands located on Shinob Kibe in Washington, Utah. The Shinob Kibe mesa is an important archaeological site, a well-known prominent landmark, and a sacred place to local Paiute Indians.
The words “Dog Town” were painted in large white letters on the boulders at the top of Shinob Kibe. Members of the public discovered paint rollers and paint buckets in the immediate vicinity. The BLM became aware of the damages through social media.
“Restoring sites after deliberate vandalism is a complex, difficult process, and not always possible. Thoughtless actions such as these impact the public’s ability to enjoy the spectacular scenic values we have here in Washington County,” said St. George Field Office Manager Keith Rigtrup. “The BLM is dedicated to protecting public lands for the enjoyment of future generations.”
The BLM is offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to the conviction of those responsible. Please contact the Archaeological Resources Protection Act hotline at 800-227-7286 with any information. Callers may remain anonymous.
For more information, contact Keith Rigtrup at (435) 688-3201. Persons who use a telecommunications device for the deaf may call the Federal Relay Service at 800-877-8339 to leave a message or question for the above individual. The Federal Relay Service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Replies are provided during normal business hours.
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.