BLM investigating rock art vandalism
POWELL (WNE) — The Bureau of Land Management is investigating recent acts of vandalism at six Native American rock art sites in the Big Horn Basin.
According to a release, 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.
The damage to these historic and prehistoric rock art sites is irreparable. Each of these sites 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 that any 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,” said Karina Black, archeologist with the Cody Field Office.
The BLM encourages any additional information from the public regarding these recent acts of vandalism be reported to the Cody Field Office.
Individuals who witness vandalism, artifact theft or suspicious activity on public lands should report it 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.
This story was published on June 9, 2026.
Ensure These Stories Are Told
Despite the challenges facing independent local journalism, what sustains us — and fills us with deep gratitude — is the loyal support of readers who believe our communities deserve accurate, trusted, and locally rooted news.
It is no exaggeration to say that we are here because of you. Every story we report, every local issue we follow, every public meeting we cover, and every community voice we lift up is made possible by readers who understand the value of an independent newspaper.
Your support does more than fund articles. It helps protect the independence that allows us to report honestly, ask important questions, and keep our community informed without fear or favor.
If you are able, please consider supporting the News Letter Journal by donating to our Unabridged Fund today. Whether your gift helps cover reporting time, printing costs, video, photography, editing, or distribution, every contribution helps keep local journalism strong in Wyoming.
All gifts are deeply appreciated. Your support helps ensure that local stories continue to be told, local decisions continue to be watched, and local voices continue to be heard.
Thank you for standing with independent community journalism.