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Bag the Illegal Dumping Habit with Adopt-A-Site

What is Illegal Dumping?

The state of Vermont defines illegal dumping as the unlawful disposal of refuse (e.g. tires, furniture, household trash, appliances) on land within 300 feet of public or private property. In short, illegal dumping is putting trash where it’s not supposed to go. The health risks, economic costs, and environmental tolls of illegal dumping impact all of us.

More about Illegal Dumping:

What’s the Problem with Illegal Dumps?

Health Risks

  • Rusted metal and glass can harm people and wildlife.
  • Children may get trapped in abandoned appliances.
  • Tires and other containers may hold rain water, becoming a breeding ground for insects.

Economic Costs

  • Cleaning up illegally dumped trash costs at least twice as much as properly disposing of it in the first place. And through district, town or state cleanups, your tax dollars may be paying for some of the bill.

Environmental Hazards

  • Hazardous waste, such as motor oil, antifreeze, batteries, and paints, can contaminate the soil and water.
  • Illegal dumpsites can threaten wildlife habitat.