Petrified Wood Stolen on Federal Land

Estimated read time: Less than a minute

This archived news story is available only for your personal, non-commercial use. Information in the story may be outdated or superseded by additional information. Reading or replaying the story in its archived form does not constitute a republication of the story.

ST. GEORGE, Utah (AP) -- Authorities say ancient petrified wood has been stolen in southern Utah. Now an investigation is underway.

Although collectors can gather up to 250 pounds a year with a permit the wood can NOT be taken for commercial purposes.

The Washington County rancher who reported the thefts say long, empty trenches now occupy the space where 60-foot-tall logs stood on BLM land near Virgin.

The Bureau of Land Management has the authority to take criminal or civil action against violators. BLM officials say regardless of what people think, taking petrified wood from public lands is NOT acceptable.

Petrified wood can be found at rock shops for less than $100 for small pieces to several thousand dollars for museum-quality pieces.

------------ Information from: Deseret Morning News, http://www.deseretnews.com