Vandalism continues to plague Conservation Authority

Lakehead Region Conservation Authority officials say they are growing more frustrated with the continued vandalism at the Cascades Conservation Area.

The most recent reported vandalism took place over the August long weekend. The Conservation Authority says someone attempted to set fire to interpretive panels that had just been installed one week earlier.

The new panels replace an identical set that was destroyed by an arsonist a year ago.
"These panels are intended o help enhance the experience of visitors to the Cascades," said Bill Bartley, Conservation Authority chairman. "It’s disheartening to have thoughtless individuals attempt to destroy these valuable educational tools."

This time the vandals failed to destroy the new panel, however, they did manage to cause fire and smoke damage to one of its corners.

"Since funding is not finite, the Authority may not have the resources to be able to replace the panels if they are destroyed again," Bartley added.

The Conservation Authority is asking that anyone with information about this incident contact police or Crime Stoppers.