Pierce Brosnan apologizes for walking in 'thermal area' at Yellowstone National Park
Pierce Brosnan is apologizing after pleading guilty to foot travel in a thermal area during a recent trip to Yellowstone National Park.
"As an environmentalist I have the utmost respect for and love of our natural world," the former James Bond actor, 70, shared in an Instagram post on Thursday.
"However, I made an impulsive mistake - one that I do not take lightly - when entering a thermal area covered in snow in Yellowstone National Park to take a photograph," he continued, adding that he didn't see a "no trespassing" sign to warn him of danger and noted that he did not hike in the area.
Brosnan ended his post by saying, "I deeply regret my transgression and offer my heartfelt apologies to all for trespassing in this sensitive area. Yellowstone and all our National Parks are to be cared for and preserved for all to enjoy. #StayOnThePath."
The "Mamma Mia!" actor was fined $500, required to pay $1000 to the Yellowstone Forever Geological Fund and cited other fines by U.S. Magistrate Judge Stephanie A. Hambrick on March 14 in Mammoth, Wyoming, according to a press release by the U.S. Department of Justice.
Brosnan pleaded guilty to foot travel in a thermal area within a Yellowstone National Park thermal feature at Mammoth Hot Springs after, according to court documents cited in the press release. He posted photos to Instagram on or about Nov. 1, 2023, of him standing in an off-limits area.
"There are signs posted in the area that warn visitors of the dangers of thermal features and state that visitors must remain on the designated boardwalks and trails," the press release said. "The National Park Service (NPS) reminds Yellowstone visitors that the ground in thermal areas is fragile and thin, and scalding water is just below the surface."
"Therefore, trespassing on thermal features is dangerous and can harm delicate natural resources within the park," the press release continued, adding that the park was "established primarily to protect these hydrothermal areas" and NPS encouraged visitors to "exercise extreme caution" and remain in designated paths while exploring these areas.
