Eurobodalla’s average illegal dumper is typically a male aged between 18 and 45, and is mostly dumping building and demolition waste, excavation material, green waste, TVs, computers, tyres and mattresses.
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He is also not too bright – as many of the items being illegally dumped can be disposed of for free.
With penalties as high as $250,000 and possible jail time, it might be sobering for dumpers to know they are being watched.
Eurobodalla Shire Environmental Services Manager Deb Lenson said council rangers receive training in investigation and surveillance techniques and exchange intelligence on illegal dumping activities.
Ms Lenson said there were more than 100 illegal dumping matters investigated locally in 2015 – 2016.
“There has also been a focus on littering from vehicles and a number of $250 fines have been issued for this offence,” Ms Lenson said.
She said members of the community are encouraged to actively report these matters to Council or to the Environment Protection Authority.”
Ms Lenson said illegal dumping and littering caused ratepayers huge expense, and the costs were more than just financial.
“Litter impacts where we fish, where we swim, where we grow our oysters, where we bushwalk and cycle,” she said.
“In a tourism-driven economy where our stunning environment is so important, there really is no place for litter.
“We have waste management facilities at Brou near Narooma, at Moruya, and at Surf Beach, as well as annual hard waste collections and fortnightly household green waste pick-ups.”
She said people could be getting rid of litter for free or for a very small charge at waste management facilities or through their household collections.
Heavy fines apply for illegal dumping ranging from on-the-spot fines of $2000 for individuals and $8000 for corporations and up to $250,000 and possible jail time for more serious offences.
Report illegal dumping to Council 02 4474 1000 or the EPA hotline, 131 555.
