Posted By Kimberly Wear@kimberly wear on Wed, Apr 28, 2021 at 6:25 PM click to enlarge Prescribed burning at Mvs-yee-se’-ne on the Gasquet Ranger District. The Six Rivers National Forest is increasing patrols at the culturally significant Mvs-yee-se′-ne known locally as Pappas Flat after recent vandalism at the site, including off-roading, racist graffiti and the chopping down of Oregon white oaks in the area, according to a news release.
It is, unfortunately, not the first time such incidents have taken place. “The Gasquet Ranger District recognizes the cultural significance of Mvs-yee-se’-ne and is committed to ensuring its integrity for current and future generations. Protecting and maintaining this site is one of the highest priorities for the district. We look forward to working with the tribes, Smith River Collab
Culturally-Significant Site Near Gasquet Vandalized, National Forest Staff Found Racist Graffiti, Illegal Tree Harvest, Off-Road Vehicle Use
Six Rivers National Forest law enforcement will increase patrols in the Pappas Flat area near Gasquet due to ongoing vandalism.
From a joint news release Wednesday from Six Rivers, the Tolowa Dee-ni Nation and Elk Valley Rancheria:
The Six Rivers National Forest, Tolowa Dee-Ni′ Nation, and Elk Valley Rancheria are aware of recent vandalism, timber theft, and unauthorized vehicular use at the culturally significant Mvs-yee-se′-ne known locally as Pappas Flat on the forest’s Gasquet RD/Smith River National Recreation Area. During regular patrolling, forest personnel observed racist graffiti, illegally felled Oregon white oaks, barrier removal, and off-road tire tracks within the oak woodland and Jeffrey pine grassland. Unfortunately, this is not the first incidence of improper recreational use at this location.