BLM seeks tips from the public after vandals cut nearly a mile of fence west of Redmond

 REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The Bureau of Land Management's Prineville District on Friday asked the public for tips to help them find whoever vandalized a fence on public lands west of Redmond earlier this fall.

The fence served to mark the boundary between public and private land along Kingwood Avenue. In September, vandals systematically cut all four strands of the fence for almost a mile.  

The fence not only helped define the edge of the Buckhorn Off Highway Vehicle Trail System and a grazing allotment, but also helped limit access to public lands for illegal dumping.

Although the fence was in an area with mule deer, the fence was built to wildlife standards. Its top and bottom strands used smooth wire, and it was built at a height that deer could go over or under the fence. 

“It’s incredibly frustrating,” said BLM Field Manager Lisa Clark. “This fence was installed through a grant funded by state ATV dollars, and the benefit was not only to the trail system but also to the neighbors.” 

Anyone having information about the vandalism is asked to call the Prineville BLM District Office at (541) 416-6700.

Clerk said the office will restring the wire as time and funds allow, with the support of local OHV groups.