BLM CA Rock Art and the Public CASO Applegate Bakersfileld Field Offices

The Bureau of Land Management manages some of the highest concentrations of rock art sites in California and Nevada. Archaeological sites, particularly those with rock art, in the American West are increasingly subject to both intentional vandalism, theft, inadvertent damage from visitation, and damage from wildland fires. The public has a tremendous interest in rock art, and public outreach and education has proven an effective way to protect these important sites and further stimulate the publics interest. The agreement would stimulate public education and outreach regarding cultural heritage values on public lands. Past public outreach, events and volunteer opportunities have proven effective to increase awareness of the importance of rock art sites and minimize intentional and unintentional damage to these unique and sensitive sites.