Protect Wyoming’s Public Lands From Illegal Dumping

The Bureau of Land Management is urging the public to help combat illegal dumping on public lands in Wyoming, a widespread issue that degrades natural resources, threatens wildlife, and imposes significant cleanup costs on taxpayers. Sheridan Media’s Ron Richter has more.

BLM Wyoming Abandoned Mine Land/Hazmat Program Lead Kellan Waldo said that illegal dumping often occurs near city boundaries, where public lands are more accessible, as their proximity tends to encourage further misuse, creating a cycle of degradation. Waldo said that illegal dumping is not only harmful—it’s also costly and illegal. According to the BLM, 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.

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.