Essential Link for the Appalachian Trail (about graffiti)

https://www.nps.gov/blri/learn/historyculture/graffiti.htm

The approved way to respond to graffiti.

Vandalism in any setting is a crime. In the National Park Service, it is a class B misdemeanor with punishment up to a $5,000 fine and six months in jail. 

In recent years there has also been an uptick theft of parkway signs. This is also an illegal act. Theft of parkway signs is a crime punishable under Federal Code of Regulations 36 CFR, as well as 18USC, and could be charged as a felony. 

In the 21st century there are many different ways to express oneself and many ways to communicate with Blue Ridge Parkway that doesn’t involve vandalism. There are also many other ways to mark your journey through Blue Ridge Parkway such as immersing yourself in nature during a hike, taking a spectacular photo, or journaling. The National Park Service’s mission statement reads: “to preserve unimpaired the natural and cultural resources and values of the national park system for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of this and future generations.” Please work together with us to leave the Blue Ridge Parkway a better place then we found it. 

We want to remind park visitors and neighbors that if you are on the parkway and witness someone taking a sign or vandalizing park property, take down license plate information, leave the area, and call 1.800.PARKWATCH (1.800.727.5928) to report the incident to park dispatchers.

Or:

https://www.nps.gov/articles/vandalism-hurts.htm

Defacing any part of the national park or other public land you visit hurts, and it degrades the experience of other visitors. It is described as an act of cultural violence when perpetrated against such sites as pictograph panels, historic structures, and other places that existed before their designation as park sites. Disturbing wildlife or damaging their habitats can directly lead to their demise. These acts are also illegal. 

You can help protect our treasured public lands. If you see something suspicious in any NPS location, stay safe and tell us about it. Talk to any NPS employee for help in reporting suspicious activity, or give the Special Agents of the NPS Investigative Services Branch a call. We understand that it may take time to reach park personnel and/or areas with cell or internet service. 

You don’t have to tell us who you are, but please tell us what you know:

☎️ CALL or TEXT the ISB Tip Line 888-653-0009

? ONLINE www.nps.gov/ISB and click “Submit a Tip

? EMAIL nps_isb@nps.gov

? EMERGENCY dial 9-1-1

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