Boulder covered with petroglyphs stolen near Yuma

A boulder bearing petroglyphs several hundred years old has been stolen from federal land near Yuma.

The boulder, covered with American Indian petroglyphs, was found missing recently during a routine patrol of the area.

"We know the boulder was there a few months ago because the area was monitored by an Arizona site steward," said Sandra Arnold, an archaeologist for the Bureau of Land Management.

The boulder, estimated at 500 pounds, was about 8 inches thick, 16 inches wide and 24 inches long, according to Keith Dorsey, BLM law enforcement ranger. As with many archeological sites, its exact location is confidential, to deter vandalism.

"It was quite obvious by the tracks that someone dragged the boulder to their vehicle and left the area," said Dorsey.

"We hope to get the word out to people so if they see the boulder, we can retrieve it so future generations will have the opportunity to enjoy this archeological feature," he said.

According to the BLM, petroglyphs are designs or figures that have been pecked or scratched into rock surfaces and are just as important to American Indians today as they were hundreds of years ago.

"While we have no way of knowing the exact meaning of them, this is their written history," Dorsey said.

Altering the natural landscape can offend contemporary tribal members who still visit these places, just as their ancestors did, the BLM stated.

Dorsey said there is a $500 reward for information leading to the boulder's return. Anyone with information regarding the artifact can call him at 317-3212.

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James Gilbert can be reached at

jgilbert@yumasun.com or 539-6854.