Visitor to Zion National Park cited for graffiti
Social media pressure causes visitor to admit responsibility
By John Marciano
Many have heard the phrases “take only photographs, leave only footprints” or “leave no trace,” both of which apply to our national parks. Sadly, both of which were violated this past weekend in Zion National Park.
The responsible individual happened to leave information that led other visitors and park officials to him on the internet. The social media backlash for the perpetrator’s action has been swift and severe, prompting him to admit responsibility for the graffiti and cooperate fully with the ongoing investigation. Criminal and civil penalties are pending.
Park law enforcement appreciate the tips that have poured in and hope that this incident will serve as a deterrent to anyone else contemplating vandalizing one of America’s treasures. Chief Ranger Daniel Fagergren encourages visitors to report any type of illegal activity occurring in the park but also asks that visitors not cross the line of taking enforcement action themselves.
Park staff cleaned the site today, but restoration can often be very time consuming and costly. Defacing any part of the national park or other public lands degrades the experience for other visitors and is illegal. The adages “take only photographs, leave only footprints” and “leave no trace” still apply in our national parks and are keys to leaving the beautiful landscape unimpaired.
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