Santa Fe, NM – After receiving reports last month of illegal ski runs cut in the Santa Fe National Forest, U.S. Forest Service officials have found more illegal glading and now count the number of felled Engelmann Spruce and Subalpine Fir trees at more than 1,000.

U.S. Forest Service Law Enforcement and Investigations official believe that backcountry skiers or sidecountry riders leaving the nearby Santa Fe Ski Area have used chain saws and hand saws to cut the runs, some of which are in federally protected Pecos Wilderness Area. They fear the effect that the cutting will have on water quality, wildlife, wildfires and bark beetle infestation.

If the culprits are caught, charges could range from a federal Class B misdemeanor and a violation of the Wilderness Act, with penalties ranging from up to $6,000 in fines to six months in jail, to a federal felony if the damages are substantial enough.

The $5,000 reward for information leading to a conviction remains in place. Taxpayer money is currently being used to fund the investigation and cleanup.