A photo released Wednesday, June 5, 2013, of Packsaddle Cave shows stalactites, some of which were recently damaged in a case of vandalism. |
U.S. Forest Service officials said Wednesday that stalactites were broken off in the cave. The stalactites take at least hundreds of years to form and are irreplaceable, according to officials.
The vandalism occurred inside Packsaddle Cave on the Kern River Ranger District of the Sequoia National Forest. The cave is a popular hiking destination for people visiting the Upper Kern River.
If caught, vandals can be fined up to $5,000.
District Ranger Al Watson is asking anyone with information on the vandal or vandals to call (760) 376-3781 or 379-5646.