Vandalism at Winnemucca Mountain is being investigated

Heather O’Hanlon, spokeswoman for the BLM’s Winnemucca district office, said graffiti was found on the mountain and paint was found on an adjacent building that is not owned by the BLM. The BLM’s law enforcement team is investigating.

“The BLM plans to repair the damage as quickly and environmentally as possible and permanently remove all traces of the vandalism. Planning must take into account the current condition of the area and what environmental impacts, if any, mitigation will have in future seasons and years,” O’Hanlon said. She said the most appropriate methods to remove the vandalism have yet to be determined. Environmental impacts that play a role include steepness, erosion and vegetation, she said.

“Once the investigation is complete, the site will be analyzed, a decision will be made on the best course of action, and then the NEPA process will be completed so mitigation measures can be taken,” O’Hanlon said.

Investigators are still trying to determine who is responsible for the vandalism, she noted.