Just got back from the Mesa Verde cliff dwellings and saw something that worries me

I was at Cliff Palace last month and noticed a lot of fresh marks on the plaster walls in the lower rooms. They look like scratches from backpack straps or camera bags, not old wear. I counted at least five new ones in just one kiva. The ranger said visitation is up 30% this year and they're short-staffed. It feels like the site is getting loved to death. Has anyone else seen damage at popular spots that wasn't there a few years ago?

2 comments

2 Comments

jennifer3582d ago

Isn't it crazy how fast that kind of wear adds up? I'd take pictures of the specific marks with something for scale, like a coin, and email the park superintendent directly. A dated photo log from a visitor can sometimes push things up the priority list for maintenance. They might need that to get extra funding or volunteers.

-1

wrenk912d ago

Ever try a local hiking group for cleanup?