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MARQUETTE COUNTY -- A $250 reward is being offered for information about vandalism to a new fence at Wetmore Landing, part of the Little Presque Isle Tract in Marquette County, the Department of Natural Resources and Environment announced today.

The vandalism occurred sometime during the weekend of October 8-10 and involved significant damage to a split-rail fence recently installed at Wetmore Landing to protect vegetation along the steep shoreline bank from erosion due to foot traffic. The fence project, which cost nearly $45,000, was paid for with a federal Recreation Trail Fund grant.

According to DNRE conservation officers who responded to citizen reports of vandalism and littering, several rails of the fence were removed and burned in a bonfire, and a large amount of litter, including glass alcohol containers, were left behind.  Land use rules at the Little Presque Isle Tract prohibit campfires, camping, and glass containers.

Information leading to the conviction of those responsible for the vandalism will be rewarded with restitution fees of $250.  Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the DNRE's Report All Poaching line at (800) 292-7800.  The RAP line is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and anonymous tips can be made if a reward is not desired.

For more information about the project, contact DNRE Forest Management Division Western Upper Peninsula District Supervisor Debbie Begalle at (906) 228-6561.

The Department of Natural Resources and Environment is committed to the conservation, protection, management, and accessible use and enjoyment of the state’s environment, natural resources, and related economic interests for current and future generations.  Learn more at www.michigan.gov/dnre.