“Signs, signs, everywhere are signs, blocking out the scenery and blowing my mind.” In Montana, finding signs without bullet holes or vandalism is becoming rare.
Montana is a free state, but signs are not free. Every sign, and vandalism issues, costs money. The money comes from Sportsmen’s licenses. Wouldn’t these funds be better spent on access, management, or habitat issues than wasting it on vandalism. Bathrooms, fencing, and other public facilities, tables, fire rings, and accesses are also being ruined.
Many of the signs are giving positive information. They are directional, informative, or helpful. Public signs say it is ok to fish or hunt here. So why shoot them up?
Vandals and shooters that do this are lazy, selfish, and criminals. Vandalism is a crime. If you see vandals ruining our resources, use you cell phone to take a picture and call to report the crime. There are plenty of shooting ranges and open spaces where you can safely and respectfully shoot. Clean up after you are done. We all know places that are now closed because folks shot up tons of junk and left it there.
Sadly, everyone that owns a gun gets the blame. Its no wonder landowners are posting their property with more signs. The visual statement of signs full of holes is that gun owners don’t respect private or public land.
The annual bill for sign replacement, vandal repairs, and damages is hundreds of thousands of dollars! That money could be better used to help all of us enjoy the outdoors.
“Do this, don’t do that, can’t you read the signs?” Not if they are full of holes, painted, or destroyed.
Montana Grant
For more Montana Grant, read him at www.montanagrantfishing.com.
