Vandalism, or criminal mischief, involving Montana's recreational resources is a chronic problem that results in significant annual expense.

The cost of repairing and replacing vandalized facilities cuts into Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks ability to do routine maintenance and improve other sites. Vandalism at FWP-managed state parks and fishing access sites averages 126 incidents per year and costs on average $36,850.

Here is a summary of vandalism costs in recent years:

2008—about 128 incidents resulted in an estimated $36,000 in damages

2007—about 118 incidents resulted in an estimated $35,750 in damages

2006—about 126 incidents resulted in an estimated $38,800 in damages