Is it too early for someone to begin to establish a few New Years' resolutions? I mean, after all, the first day of 2022 is only 48 days away. Why wait until the last minute? Getting fit, spending less time working, and spending more time enjoying the great outdoors, are among the items on my shortlist of things to resolve to attend to in the coming year.

My son and I recently spent a few wonderfully important father-son days in the woods, ostensibly hunting for elk, but most importantly hanging out with one another and enjoying some of the natural beauty nearby forests offer this time of year. One thing that I saw, however, caught my eye and had me confused, so I took a picture and began to investigate its meaning.

Is Washington State a Purple Paint Law State?

In a word, no. Not officially. However, some still use this means of communication with would-be trespassers because it actually works. Our neighbors to the East are among the 13 US States who are Purple Paint Law states. In addition to Idaho, Montana, Indiana, Kansas, Arizona, Arkansas, Texas, North Carolina, Florida, Maine, Louisiana, Illinois, and Missouri are tickled pink to slap on a coat of purple paint to a fence post, tree, or rock, hoping you'll get the message.

What is the Purple Paint Law?

If it's not already abundantly clear, purple paint is used to mark private property and to let potential trespassers know to keep out. In those 13 states where the purple paint markings are officially state law, seeing a small patch of purple paint on a fence or large rock or a tree means exactly the same thing with the same consequences for violators. No Trespassing. Keep Out.

Suspicious Tree Location Confirmed by GPS to be Private Property

My son and hunting partner has all the latest gadgets including some pretty impressive GPS apps he uses while we're out in the woods. He knows exactly at any time if we're headed toward somewhere we shouldn't be. When I spotted the little seedling (pictured below) I asked him to confirm my suspicion and indeed, GPS said we were right next to private land. I'm not sure how durable the coat of paint will be on this growing tree, but perhaps just as durable as a rusted or faded sign might be.

Gallery: Mountain Scenes Near Yakima, Washington

 

Fall Foliage Across the Yakima Valley

 

The Bavarian Village of Leavenworth, Washington

 

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