Motorized recreation groups remove nearly seven tons of garbage from popular Colorado OHV area
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RIFLE, Colo. – Despite rainy conditions, more than 30 volunteers removed more than six tons of garbage, including 70 tires and 31 gallons of used motor oil, from public land north of Rifle on April 25 as part of an annual clean-up.
The annual Hubbard Mesa Clean-up is sponsored by several off-highway vehicle groups in the area. This year, volunteers from the High Country 4 Wheelers and the White River Trail Runners filled two 40-yard trash containers with a variety of garbage that had accumulated since last year’s clean-up.
Local businesses donated the large trash containers, which volunteers filled using a front-end loader and a skid-steer also donated by local businesses.
Much of the debris this year was associated with irresponsible target shooting.
“While most people who target shoot in this area do so responsibly, we are seeing an increase in litter associated with shooting,” said Greg Wolfgang, outdoor recreation planner for the BLM’s Colorado River Valley Field Office. “We ask that people clean-up after shooting, and avoid shooting items that will be difficult to remove, such as glass containers.”
If you see somebody dumping on public lands, call the local sheriff or BLM office.
“We really appreciate the continued volunteer support from the local clubs, businesses, users, and local governments, which will help the BLM provide better recreational opportunities,” Wolfgang said. “We look forward to a day where this type of annual clean-up won’t be necessary.”
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.