BLM works to prevent more vandalism at Blackrock Canyon Area
The Blackrock Canyon area is getting some new signs as part of the Bureau of Land Management’s effort to up safety in recreational areas, in light of recent vandalism.
Matthew Lanham and his family have been coming to the Blackrock area for the past 10 years.
“We just want to be able to come up here and just ride, go camping or enjoy the environment,” Lanham said.
When he went to Blackrock Wednesday and saw the BLM’s newly added signs; he was reminded of the vandalism in the area.
“Nobody has any respect around here,” he said.
In February, numerous bullet holes were found on bathrooms in the Blackrock area on top of the damage to existing signs. With more incidents happening, the BLM knew it had to step up.
“Since it’s high-use-density for recreation, where we have people walking their dogs, we have people riding their ATVs, small children – that type of activity doesn’t go hand-in-hand with recreation use,” said Patterson.
So they’ve made sure you know exactly where people can or can’t shoot. Along with the signs, they added flag-marked posts to the boundary of the no-shooting zone. It runs 150 yadrs on both sides of Blackrock Road.
Jesse Bender, fire information specialist in BLM’s Idaho Falls office, said the money spent for the signs and clean-up could have gone to other in-need areas. She asserts, though, that safety is the BLM’s top priority.
“We’re doing everything we can to keep the spot safe, to keep it open and to keep it nice,” she said. “We want to have nice facilities out here that families can come out and enjoy.
Lanham has noticed the BLM’s efforts.
“We like how they keep it nice and clean up here,” he said. “If everybody could do the same, I’d greatly appreciate it. I know my family would, too.”
Local BLM offices are stocked with maps and brochures filled with information about recreational etiquette and safety.
Starting Sunday, the BLM’s Fire Prevention Order will be in effect. It prohibits fireworks and explosive materials in these areas.
