Volunteers remove nearly eight tons of garbage and debris

GLENWOOD SPRINGS, COLO. – More than 40 volunteers Saturday teamed to remove nearly eight tons of garbage from the Fravert Reservoir and JQS Trail areas north of Rifle.

The annual clean-up is a cooperative effort among High Country 4 Wheelers, Bureau of Land Management, White River National Forest, and a host of other local businesses and off-highway vehicle groups, including Code 4x4, Mountain Off-Road Enterprises, Colorado Custom Cycles, Waste Management and the Four Wheelers.

Because the area is adjacent to Rifle, it’s a popular location for a variety of recreational activities. Volunteers filled more than two 40-cubic yard containers of trash, scrap metal, tires and abandoned vehicles – more than twice the volume as last year.

“We are grateful to those dedicated volunteers who gave up a Saturday to perform a huge service to BLM and the public,” said Jamie Connell, Glenwood Springs Field Manager. “Keeping this area clean will help maintain its excellent recreational opportunities.”

Dumping trash and abandoning vehicles on public lands is illegal. To report suspicious or illegal activities on public lands, call BLM at (970) 947-2800 or the Garfield County Sheriff.

“Even dumping yard debris such as lawn or tree clippings on public lands increases fire danger and the potential for introducing noxious weeds,” Connell said. “From experience we know that dumping anything – including yard waste – increases additional dumping in the same area.”

Those wishing to dispose of automobiles, refrigerators and other appliances may contact Spangler’s Auto Salvage in Rifle, (970) 625-1477.

Other household trash, yard waste or construction debris should be taken to the West Garfield County Landfill, (970) 625-2516.

###