Dumping in forest an ongoing problem

Some folks in Sisters Country can't seem to resist using the National Forest as a dumping ground.

"There's a cycle of dumping that goes on," acknowledged Forest Service law enforcement officer Fred Perl. "It creates a workload and it upsets the public."

One member of the public contacted the Forest Service and The Nugget after finding a large garbage dump last week.

"My friends and I were recently hiking on the new trail the Forest Service is building up the wild and scenic section of the Whychus near Peterson Ridge, and came across a recently dumped pile of electronics, including a large-screen TV, and other household items including furniture," the hiker wrote. "Those of us who live in the Sisters Country are truly blessed by the beauty of our surroundings, and this kind of abuse and disregard for our forests and open spaces is beyond comprehension."

Perl is looking for leads on the incident. Anyone with information may contact him at the Sisters Ranger District office at 541-549-7700.

Trash dumpers don't always get away with it.

"I've solved quite a few of them (dumping incidents)," Perl told The Nugget.

Dumpers often leave clues behind and tips from the public also help. The penalties are not insignificant. Dumping is a Class B misdemeanor and carries fines up to $5,000. While it's usually a citation offense, perpetrators can face jail time as well.