Illegal dumping cases drop off county-wide

GLEN FLORA - Bordered by moss-covered trees and lush undergrowth, the dried-up riverbed seems like the perfect place for contemplation, meditation and the enjoyment of nature. But then you spot the tires.

Strewn haphazardly in the shadow of the wooden bridge that spans CR 228 overhead, the tires form a stark contrast with the natural surroundings of this section of Caney Creek. A quick tabulation reveals more than 50 large tires, the kind that would be used by 18-wheelers or a tractor. All are well worn, with some containing holes through which thin shafts of light peek through.

From the roadway up above, the tires are mostly hidden from sight. Motorists who pass by on this secluded gravel road would likely never know what lay below.

Yet the tires failed to escape notice. A watchful resident who lives in the area reported seeing a truck dump the tires into the dried-up creek, said Mark Somer, the county's environmental enforcement officer.

"It happens everywhere across the county, but it's definitely not as problematic as it used to be. We are seeing a big drop off in large illegal dumping cases. Being out there is definitely having an impact," he said.

He urged anyone who may see illegal dumping or another environmental crime to contact him at 335-6210, ext. 13.

"The quick response by the public helps us out greatly," he said.