DETROIT, Ore. -- Bagby Hot Springs near Detroit, Ore. has become a hotbed for crime over the years.  In 2003, there were 52 reported crimes at the springs, ranging from theft and vandalism to rape and assault.

Now, that’s all changed, thanks to some hard work from some nature lovers.

The Northwest Forest Conservancy and the Forest Service started restoring the old Cabin at Bagby Hot Springs in 2006.  They also cleaned up the trails to the spring.  Soon, they started cleaning up the crime.

The Forest Conservancy set up an educational booth in the Springs’ parking lot, where much of the crime was taking place.  NFC president Jack Oppelt said it’s created a presence that’s proved to be a deterrent for crime.

“With more presence here of those who are volunteering, someone with a radio on their hip, it discourages someone who wants to do trouble,” Oppelt said.

The numbers prove it. Crime has dropped dramatically, with only four crimes reported in 2008.

“The more people who come here for good recreation reasons, the less impact from the people who want to cause trouble,” Oppelt said.

Marissa Coren hiked to Bagby Hot Spings Friday.  She said she thinks the improvements are great.

“I think it’s really important to be reinvesting in some of those resources and keeping the outdoors safe and accessible to the public,” Coren said.

Now, the Northwest Forest Conservancy wants to do the same at nearby Austin Hot Spings.  NFC already put in an offer to buy the springs, which they say still have crime problems. 

They hope the public will help with volunteering and donations to make the same transformation possible.