‘It’s a Big Problem’ — Forest Preserve Police Seek Public’s Help to Curb Illegal Dumping
Police from the Forest Preserve District of Kane County are looking for the public’s help to catch those who illegally dump trash in the forest preserves.
“Illegal dumping or ‘fly dumping’ is a constant battle for us,” said Police Chief Mike Gilloffo. “Unfortunately, it’s very common, and a weekly occurrence. We get everything from household garbage left in dumpsters to remodeling project trash, old tires, and landscape waste left in the preserves. It’s a big problem,” he said.
Site map for Rutland Forest Preserve in Hampshire.
On Feb. 3, fly dumping reached a new level when someone discarded an entire roof within Rutland Forest Preserve in Hampshire. The person left a note for the district stating: “Forest Preserve, sorry for this, but the county took the money I had for disposal, so I had no choice. Have a happy 2016.”
Police are investigating and seek the public’s help identifying the responsible party. Anyone with information is asked to call 630-232-5980 and ask for the Public Safety Department.
“They’re right in that it costs the Forest Preserve District money, but ultimately, illegal dumping costs all Kane County taxpayers,” said Gilloffo. “The more time we have to spend cleaning up after people, the less time and resources we have to devote to our regular services.
The fine for illegal dumping is $75, restitution for cleanup and repair of natural areas. In some cases, the dumping requires a mandatory court appearance and court costs.
District police have been successful in identifying some of those who have previously left trash in the preserves. Police will deliver a ticket and possible notice to appear in court to their homes, as well as make them clean up the mess. In some cases, police have returned trash bags to residents’ homes with their tickets.
If you have any information on the discarded roof materials left at Rutland Forest Preserve, please call 630-232-5980 and ask for the Public Safety department. If you are in the forest preserves and happen to witness someone illegally dumping, please call 911 and ask for a forest preserve officer.
SOURCE: Kane County Forest Preserve District news release
In Cases of Emergency in a Forest Preserve
- Call 911 immediately and ask for a Forest Preserve District police officer to be dispatched to your location.
- Please be prepared to provide as much information as possible, such as your location, name of the preserve, nearest cross street or fire number.
For Non-emergencies
- To report non-emergency information such as graffiti, dumping or repairs, call 630-232-5980.
About the Public Safety Department
The mission of the Forest Preserve District of Kane County’s Public Safety Department is “To Preserve and Protect the Nature of Kane County” and to ensure a safe, family environment. Click here for a PDF of the Public Safety Department brochure.
About the Forest Preserve District of Kane County
The Forest Preserve District of Kane County acquires, holds and maintains land to preserve natural and historic resources, habitats, flora and fauna. The district restores, restocks, protects and preserves open space for the education, recreation and pleasure of Kane County citizens. For more information, visit the district’s website or find them on social media via Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. Also, sign up for the quarterly TreeLine Newsletter.
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