We surveyed a total of 90 sites in the area around Lowell and Oakridge during the weeks of January 12 and February 23 in 2004. The majority of these were Forest Service (52), but there were also 30 Army Corps sites and 8 State Park sites.

Working with our agencies, we surveyed sites that were already known, as well as sites not already designated as dump sites. Our team drove on roads and investigated various pullouts, spur roads, and shoulders which appeared to be obvious dump site locations. We paid special attention to heavy items, items with special fees at local transfer stations, and those that needed immediate attention, such as toxics and sharps.

We also kept track of deterrents, or things that would prevent somebody from dumping. These included signs, gates, barricades, and park hosts. Information on dumpsites and deterrents were input into a database, where one can search for specific data.

This graph illustrates a common trend with the type of trash which is illegally disposed. The majority of sites have items with associated fees at transfer stations throughout Lane County. These items include construction wastes, tires, large appliances and yard debris (which isn't even accepted at the transfer stations within our area).

Other items commonly found were: household garbage, glass and animal carcasses.

This graph provides an overview of the types of waste found at dump sites throughout the project area. Household Garbage seems to be the largest problem, followed by Construction Wastes and Glass.

Generally, each agency has similar problems. If more sites had been surveyed, it is possible that the trend would be more apparent.

Items in red are those with extra fees at transfer stations.

For more information on our physical survey, see:

FS Inventory & AC Inventory & SP Inventory