Graffiti on a scenic cliff that rises approximately 120 feet above the Jacks Fork River has been successfully removed.
Spending two days suspended from Chalk Bluff within the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, three members of the Cave Research Foundation removed spray paint from the stone surface using water, vinegar and wire brushes. They rappelled down Chalk Bluff to reach the graffiti, which spanned 12 feet by 24 feet across.
The vandalism occurred in late April. On June 11, Murray Anderson Jr., of Mountain View, pleaded guilty to one count of vandalism in the U. S. District Court in Cape Girardeau. He paid $4,097.96 in fines and restitution for the damages. Restitution was awarded to the L-A-D Foundation, which owns Chalk Bluff and funded the graffiti removal project.
Several local land management agencies have recently experienced a spike in this type of vandalism of natural and cultural landmarks. The National Park Service appreciates the support of the public in reporting these incidents and helping to protect the scenic treasures of our area. Information about vandalism in Ozark National Scenic Riverways can be reported by calling the Arrowhead Regional Dispatch Center at 844-460-3604.