Improperly disposed trash, particularly dead animal carcasses, can be serious disease vectors. In an area south of Naples, about 200 by 200 feet, there were 35 dead animal carcasses, two sofas and several large appliances. In addition, people target practicing with firearms often leave targets and other trash at favorite sites. A particular problem, according to BLM officials, is broken glass from bottles that were used as targets. Sharp broken glass is a hazard for both the visiting public and wildlife.
Old freezers pose additional problems.
Not only is the refrigerant a hazardous substance, but removal from public lands is difficult. The Vernal Field Office of the BLM is asking for public land users for their cooperation in properly disposing of unwanted material. Over the coming months, the Vernal BLM will be actively seeking volunteers to help clean up refuse on the public lands and actively contacting public land users to further public education efforts regarding littering and improper disposal of unwanted materials.