BLM cleans up illegal dumpsites in Big Horn, Washakie counties

The Bureau of Land Management completed extensive cleanups of four illegal dumpsites in Big Horn and Washakie counties over the past several months. Approximately 125,000 pounds of garbage, including hazardous materials, were removed from more than 40 acres of public lands.

The dumpsites included the Fifteenmile OHV area shooting site  west of Worland, an area west of Basin, a site near Highway 31 east of Manderson, and an area near Nieber Road south of Worland. The waste removed included appliances, furniture, shooting targets, scrap metal, wire, yard waste, tires, concrete, and other trash and non-hazardous materials.

Additionally, 1.4 cubic yards of hazardous asbestos containing materials were removed from the dumpsite near Nieber Road and disposed of in compliance with local, state and federal laws and regulations.

“The cleanups have made these public lands safer and more enjoyable for the people who use them for walking, hunting and other activities,” said BLM Worland Assistant Field Manager Stacey Whitman Moore. “Moving forward, we ask for your help to break the cycle of illegal dumping in these areas and on all public lands.”

Long term, illegal dumpsites often encourage additional illegal dumping in the same area. Signage and fences will be installed to deter future dumping in these areas, and staff will continue to monitor the cleaned-up areas.

The cleanups were conducted by contractors qualified to remove hazardous materials and who have the knowledge and ability to handle other potential hazards. A fifth dumpsite, known locally as TV Draw, was generously cleaned by staff from Wyoming Game and Fish Department.

The Worland Field Office has several additional cleanups planned for 2025. For more information, please contact the BLM Worland Field Office at (307) 347-5100.

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