The beauty of nature and the power of millions of years of erosion are being undone by a few people with bad intentions.

Wayne National Forest authorities say they’ve witnessed an increase in vandalism in the naturally made stone structure called Rock House, near Lake Vesuvius. And it’s clear from the tone in Ironton district ranger Gloria Chrismer’s voice that it’s breaking her heart.

“It just really ruins the atmosphere out there,” Chrismer said. “We’ve got a historical site out there where we know that probably the Indians use to hang out, and there’s all kinds of history out there.”

When inspecting the damage to the Rock House this time, Chrismer found something even more disturbing.

“On my way back, I found a plastic bag where they had sprayed the paint in a bag,” Chrismer said. “That’s an indication that somebody not only was destroying the scenery with the graffiti, they were also sniffing paint.”

The harm that someone can do to themselves while sniffing — or “huffing” — is extremely troubling. About 22 percent of those who die from huffing do so the first time they try it, but Chrismer’s also worried about the harm they could do to others.

“We don’t need people out there who have that type of behavior,” Chrismer said.

Now Chrismer is turning to the forest’s patrons for aid. Not only in keeping vigilant against other vandals, but in catching those responsible for the damage that already has been done.

“We need the help from the public,” Chrismer said. “If they see anybody walking around with spray paint or somebody with a bag of paint they should let us know. … I really believe that somebody saw something out there.”

It’s not the first time that the Rock House has had this sort of problem. In September of 2004,

Jana Turley of Coal Grove, pleaded guilty to vandalism. She was sentenced to spend four years under intensive supervised probation. Two others, Amanda Lunsford of Ashland, Ky.,

and John A. Larson of Ironton, were indicted in connection with the vandalism incident.

What really seems to be troubling Chrismer, however, is not so much the “Who?” of the vandalism, but the “Why?”

“I don’t know why they think that’s so cute out there,” Chrismer said. “If they want to carve on a tree, do it in their yard, cut up their own rocks, write on their sidewalk. But leave this alone for the people that want to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.”

Those with any information can reach the Ironton ranger station at (740) 534-6500.