Protect Wyoming’s public lands from illegal dumping
CHEYENNE, Wyo.—The Bureau of Land Management 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.
“Illegal dumping is an eye sore for public land users who use it responsibly,” said Kellen Waldo, BLM Wyoming Abandoned Mine Land/Hazmat Program Lead. “Illegal dump sites at times may also have hazardous materials discarded on them, further threatening the local users, wildlife, surface water, groundwater and eco-system. These activities damage the landscape and divert funds from other critical public land management priorities, such as recreation improvements and abandoned mine land closures.”
Illegal dumping often occurs near city boundaries, where public lands are more accessible. In Rock Springs, for example, multiple sites have been reported on BLM-managed lands within city limits. Their proximity tends to encourage further misuse, creating a cycle of degradation.
The Cost of Dumping
Illegal dumping is not only harmful—it’s also costly and illegal. On average, 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.
How You Can Help
The BLM encourages the public to report illegal dumping activities. If you observe dumping or discover a dumpsite on public land, exercise caution and contact your local BLM field office. The hazards of these sites may be compounded if they’re used as shooting areas and ad hoc material recovery sites, such as wire burn areas, which are illegal on public lands.
Residents also can help prevent illegal dumping by utilizing local waste disposal and recycling facilities. Nearby landfills and recycling centers accept a variety of materials, including household garbage, scrap metal, wood, appliances, and more.
“Public lands belong to all of us,” Waldo said. “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 your local BLM field office, visit the links below or contact Kellen Waldo at kwaldo@blm.gov or (307) 775-6092. You also can visit the BLM WY’s illegal dumping page.
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The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.