Old Quarry Trails damaged
Submitted photo Damage caused by a firearm was found in September at Old Quarry Trail. The BLM is offering a reward for any information about the vandalism.
The Old Quarry Trails has again been vandalized, according to a Bureau of Land Management press release dated Nov. 7. The BLM is offering a $300 reward for information “leading to the identification and conviction of those responsible for the damage.” The trail system is located east of Newcastle on BLM land.
“In September, the kiosk was found damaged with bullet holes, marking a continuation of vandalism that has plagued the area,” the release says. “A camera placed to monitor the area was also shot.”
Estimated costs associated with the damages, according to Tyson Finnicum, public affairs specialist for the BLM High Plains District, is $1,100.
Installed in May 2022, the kiosk was damaged shortly after in two different shooting incidents. Since this time, the glass and back panel have been replaced. According to Finnicum, no information was received the last time the kiosk was damaged and $1,400 was spent to repair the kiosk.
Anyone with information about the vandalism at Old Quarry Trailhead is encouraged to call the Newcastle Field Office at 746-6600.
Watch for hikers, hunters
It is important to note that the Old Quarry Trail system, located within BLM managed land, is a multiple use area, with all types of non-motorized recreation, including hunting. People should be mindful of this, according to Finnicum.
“We urge all public land users, hunters and non-hunters, to maintain situational awareness and be on the lookout for other people. We also suggest anyone recreating on public lands wear high visibility clothing regardless of whether they’re hunting or not, particularly during hunting season,” he said.