Forest Preserve Officials Say Illegal 'Dumping' is Huge Issue

Submission by the Forest Preserve District of Kane County

Forest preserve officials say illegal dumping has gotten out of control in Kane County.

Trash being left behind at forest preserve sites has always been a problem but reached a whole new level when someone discarded an entire roof at the Rutland Forest Preserve on Feb. 3, Forest Preserve District of Kane County Police Chief Mike Gilloffo said.

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 as well as anyone else responsible for illegal dumping at forest preserve sites, according to a Forest Preserve website.

“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.”

Forest preserve officials deal with illegal dumping, or “fly dumping,” on a regular basis.

“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,” Gilloffo said.

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.

Forest preserve police are asking anyone with information on the discarded roof materials left at Rutland Forest Preserve, to 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.