Illegal dumping is disposal of waste in an unpermitted area, usually in an open area, from vehicles along roadsides and late at night. Materials typically include construction and demolition waste, abandoned automobiles, auto parts and scrap tires, appliances, furniture, yard waste and household trash.
 Sites used for illegal dumping vary but may include abandoned industrial, residential or commercial buildings, vacant lots on public or private property and infrequently used alleys or roadways. Because of their accessibility and poor lighting, areas along rural roads and railways are particularly vulnerable. If not addressed, illegal dumps often attract more waste, potentially including hazardous wastes such as asbestos, household chemicals and paints, automotive fluids and commercial or industrial wastes.
Who is your typical illegal dumper? There is no one profile, but offenders have included construction, demolition, remodeling, roofing and landscaping contractors; waste management companies and general hauling contractors, automobile repair and tire shops, scrap collectors, local residents and "do it yourselfers".
HAZARDS AND NEGATIVES ASSOCIATED WITH ILLEGAL DUMPING
Health Risks
Drinking water quality issues related to non-point source pollution (especially in areas with private wells)
Flooding caused by debris/wastes that clog drainage ditches and waterways
Habitat/breeding grounds for disease-carrying vectors
Indirect exposure to toxic chemicals/hazardous wastes
Inhaling pollutants carried by smoke from open burning (“burn barrels”, etc.) and dump fires
Direct contact exposure to sharp objects, medical wastes, caustic substances, and fire (especially a risk for children playing in the areas)
Environmental Risks
Groundwater and surface water contamination
Air pollution
Impact on wildlife and aquatic habitat
Financial Costs
Financial burden on taxpayers and utility ratepayers
Diversion of local staff and equipment resources from other local public needs (public works staff, police, public attorneys)
Increased law enforcement costs
Increased administrative costs
Private sector business costs
Private property owner cleanup costs
Property devaluation and potential loss of opportunities to develop land and attract additional business opportunities (such as tourism)
Lost disposal revenues at permitted public and private disposal facilities (illegally dumped waste bypasses billing system)
Reduced local government tax revenue from less successful permitted private disposal facilities (wastes bypassing billing system)
Aesthetic Costs
Offensive sights and smells
Negative perceptions of community values of residents
Negative perceptions of capital investment value by potential new businesses
4 Steps to Stop Illegal Dumping in Bernalillo County |
