Crews have restored and repaired petroglyphs that were damaged by vandals back in August. Kaibab Forest leaders say a rock art specialist and archaeologist recently spent a few days fixing the damaged petroglyph panel at Keyhole Sink.
Rock art specialist Johannes Loubser and Kaibab National Forest archaeologist Neil Weintraub worked to remove the graffiti that had been painted onto the petroglyphs.
The petroglyph panel dates back between AD 700 and AD 1100.
"We were concerned that with every passing day, the paint might adhere deeper into the petroglyphs. And, with winter coming, we knew we had a limited timeframe to complete the restoration work. When we found out that Jannie [Johannes Loubser] was going to be in the area working to remove graffiti at a site in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, we knew we had to pursue the opportunity to have him help at Keyhole Sink," said Kaibab National Forest archaeologist Neil Weintraub.
Joining them in their efforts were also Kaibab National Forest employees PT Carter and Tyler Knight.
The crew first tested several materials and techniques until they settled on a course of action that worked best.
"Most visitors to Keyhole Sink will not be able to tell that vandalism took place here," Weintraub said after the restoration work was completed. "However, even though we were largely able to repair the damage, this site will never be the same."
Forest leaders say thanks to the restoration efforts only a light sheen remains where the large scribbled words "ACE" and "TJ" once appeared.
"For thousands of years and for thousands of visitors – both recent and prehistoric – Keyhole Sink was a serene place to make a connection with nature and with the past," Weintraub said.
"I feel that all changed in late August when someone decided to hike in three-quarters of a mile to the petroglyph panel with a bucket of paint."
Author: Karla Ronquillo | Source: Kold News [November 22, 2010]