BLM News Release
PRICE, Utah — The Bureau of Land Management is investigating recent vandalism at the Buckhorn Draw Pictograph Panel, a significant prehistoric cultural resource within the San Rafael Swell protected under the Archaeological Resources Protection Act of 1979. This recent graffiti, reading “Silvia P.”, is etched across four iconic petroglyphs of bighorn sheep carved by indigenous Americans up to 3,000 years ago. This act of vandalism was discovered on Jan. 17, 2025, by law enforcement. It has caused permanent damage to this irreplaceable archaeological site.
“We all share a responsibility to protect and preserve our public lands,” said BLM Price Field Office Manager Nicholas Lafazio. “Vandalizing archaeological sites erases the stories of our past and denies future generations the experience of viewing our great nation’s history in person. It is critical that we work together as a community to prevent these destructive acts. This unique site attracts visitors from around the world to Emery County and is a vital part of Utah’s cultural heritage.”
The BLM urges anyone with information related to this vandalism to contact the Price Field Office law enforcement at:
BLM Price Field Office
125 S 600 W
Price, UT 84501
Phone: (435) 636-3600
Email: MLMorningstar@blm.gov
Public lands belong to all of us, and it is up to everyone to help protect them. The BLM encourages visitors to recreate responsibly and follow Leave No Trace Principles to preserve these prehistoric sites for future generations. For more information about the Buckhorn Draw Pictograph Panel, visit Buckhorn Panel | Bureau of Land Management.
