WYOMING — The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is urging the public to help combat illegal dumping on public lands, a widespread issue that degrades natural resources, threatens wildlife and imposes significant cleanup costs on taxpayers.
According to the BLM, illegal dumping is not only harmful — it’s also costly. On average, the BLM writes that cleaning up a small dumpsite can cost $5,000, and $150,000 or more for large-scale dumping. The cost rises if hazardous materials and waste are encountered. BLM law enforcement actively investigates reports of illegal dumping, and offenders can face federal charges, fines and restitution fees.
“Illegal dumping is an eye sore for public land users who use it responsibly,” BLM Wyoming Abandoned Mine Land/Hazmat Program Lead Kellen Waldo says in a press release. “Illegal dump sites at times may also have hazardous materials discarded on them, further threatening the local users, wildlife, surface water, groundwater and ecosystem. These activities damage the landscape and divert funds from other critical public land management priorities, such as recreation improvements.”
The BLM encourages the public to report illegal dumping activities. If anyone observes dumping or discovers a dumpsite on public land, exercise caution and contact the local BLM field office. Residents also can help prevent illegal dumping by utilizing local waste disposal and recycling facilities.
“Public lands belong to all of us,” Waldo says. “By disposing of waste responsibly and reporting illegal activities, we can preserve the beauty and integrity of Wyoming’s public lands for future generations.”
For more information or to find a local BLM field office, contact Waldo at kwaldo@blm.gov or (307) 775-6092.
