The logic behind using the color purple is rooted in practical necessity and historical precedent. Purple is a color that does not occur frequently in the natural forest environment making it stand out even to those who may be colorblind. It remains visible in the dim light of dawn and the fading glow of dusk which are the prime times for hunters and explorers to be active. Furthermore by codifying the use of purple paint into law state governments have provided landowners with a tool that cannot be easily removed or ignored. While a trespasser might claim they never saw a small plastic sign nailed to a tree it is much harder to argue against a series of bright purple stripes that follow the perimeter of a forest.

For hunters hikers and wanderers the implications of the purple fence are profound. In the eyes of the law crossing a purple line is no different than hopping a locked gate or ignoring a neon orange warning sign. You are no longer just exploring or taking a shortcut you are committing a criminal act of trespassing. Depending on the jurisdiction and the circumstances of the entry the penalties can range from a simple fine to a misdemeanor charge that stays on your permanent record. In more extreme cases where the intruder is armed or refuses to leave the consequences can escalate into felony territory. The purple paint serves as a fair warning that the owner intends to prosecute anyone who disregards the boundary.

Continued on the next page