BLM seeks information about vandalized Buckhorn Draw petroglyphs

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Silvia P.” etched across petroglyphs of bighorn sheep on the Buckhorn Draw Pictograph Panel. (Bureau of Land Management)

PRICE — The Buckhorn Draw Pictograph Panel within the San Rafael Swell was vandalized in January, as the Bureau of Land Management seeks answers. The panel was discovered on Jan. 17 with scratches reading “Silvia P.” across four petroglyphs of bighorn sheep. The BLM said the vandalism has caused permanent damage to this irreplaceable archaeological site. The petroglyphs were created by indigenous Americans about 3,000 years ago."This unique site attracts visitors from around the world to Emery County and is a vital part of Utah’s cultural heritage," said BLM Price Field Office Manager Nicholas Lafazio. According to BLM, the panel is a "significant prehistoric cultural resource" protected under the Archaeological Resources Protection Act of 1979. “We all share a responsibility to protect and preserve our public lands,” Lafazio said. “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.” If anyone has information related to this vandalism, the BLM urges the public to contact the Price Field Office law enforcement at (435) 636-3600.