Thieves and vandals targeted recreation sites along the Kancamagus Scenic Byway this past winter, causing damage and losses of more than $10,000, according to White Mount National Forest officials.

Trees were felled on restroom facilities at trailheads and recreation sites, graffiti damaged interpretive signs and solar panels and associated components were stolen, according to a press release.

"Funding to replace the stolen items and make the sites operational will be taken from other projects. It's disheartening," said Marianne Leberman, recreation and wilderness program leader for the White Mountain National Forest. "When there are thefts, vandalism or break-ins on the forest, it affects everyone coming out to enjoy their public lands."

Between October 2011 and March 2012, eight 2-by-4-foot solar panels, three 12-volt electrical panels, three charge controllers, three inverters and several deep cycle batteries were stolen along the Kancamagus Highway. The solar systems provide electricity for lights, exhaust fans and water for campgrounds and bathroom facilities at the national forest recreation sites.

Thieves also targeted visitors' vehicles. As a result, anyone visiting the national forest is advised not to leave an itinerary on a car's windshield; remove valuables from cars parked at trailhead areas; empty the glove compartment and leave it open to show nothing is in it, and don't park with the trunk backed into the woods.

Anyone with information about the vandalism or thefts is asked to call U.S. Forest Service Law Enforcement and Investigations at 603-447-5448, Ext. 129. All callers will remain anonymous.