What a sad sight on what would be a nice hike….
The LPFA is spearheading the charge for graffiti removal across the Los Padres National Forest, including the Santa Barbara Frontcountry, East Camino Cielo, West Camino Cielo, Lizard’s Mouth and Santa Paula Canyon. We are looking for volunteers interested in leading graffiti removal projects at these places. Please reach out to VOLUNTEER@LPForest.org if you’re interested in removing graffiti! We can train you, get you the necessary gear, and recruit volunteers to join you. Help us maintain a Graffiti-Free LP!
Graffiti Damages the Environment
Unlike trash, graffiti is not easily removable and its impact is long lasting, as toxic chemicals from paints ultimately leach into the groundwater and surrounding environment. Graffiti violates Leave No Trace principles, and often times the chemicals used to remove it are also damaging. Once graffiti shows up in nature, it invites others to deface it even more, making the problem worse.
Graffiti is Vandalism
Vandalism, graffiti, and defacing of trees and rocks is a problem in easily accessed areas close to urban populations, though it has recently been showing up further and further into the forest. This behavior is not only problematic, it’s also criminal. If caught, the person responsible could face felony charges leading to steep fines and/or jail time.
Graffiti Needs to be Removed!
If you notice graffiti on any of your hikes, please let us know! Email photos and gps points to VOLUNTEER@LPForest.org. If you have time to lead a project to remove it, even better. All graffiti removal being done across the forest is being done by volunteer efforts. Please come out and help, or consider donating to the cause!
Email VOLUNTEER@LPForest.org to get involved!
Support the Graffiti Removal Program
We appreciate any and all help in our efforts! If you aren’t able to join us on the trail, you can still help us fundraise for the materials we need. To make a contribution to help remove graffiti, select “Graffiti Removal” in the donation designation below.