Vandals damage kiosk at refuge

By ELAINE SANDMAN

Staff writer

BONNERS FERRY — Vandals have damaged a kiosk at the Kootenai Wildlife Refuge.

The new forest trail kiosk put in place two weeks ago by the Youth Conservation Corps has sustained $2,000 worth of damage. The project cost $10,000.

"The refuge does not have the funds to repair this damage," refuge manager Dianna Ellis said.

"So this damage will be visible to visitors who come from all over the country."

The vandals also attacked another kiosk, causing $3,000 damage. Graffiti on Deep Creek Trail signs caused another $250 damage. The total in just one month is $5,250.

Other items that over time have suffered vandalism and have still not been able to be replaced total $2,700.

The refuge's budget has been steadily decreasing over the last three years. Vandalism has increased 100 percent over the last month, with $5,000 in damages so far. Items that are critical to enhance the visitors experience at the refuge are among the damaged items.

The Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge has paid Boundary County approximately $430,000 since 1980.

The commissioners place this money in the county's general fund.

The Boundary County Sheriff's Office and Idaho State Police have been notified and they have increased their patrols in the area but with the acreage to cover, the refuge could use more assistance.

Refuge employees are asking for the community's help. If you have information, call 267-3888.