The Bridger-Teton National Forest has removed about 500 pounds of garbage from a dispersed camping spot near Munger Mountain this summer. Courtesy photo.

JACKSON (WNE) — Bridger-Teton National Forest employees and volunteers have removed more than 500 pounds of garbage this summer from a campsite south of Munger Mountain.

That garbage has included alcohol cans and bottles, fireworks, burned tires, car parts and food waste. The area is being used for parties and gatherings, according to CJ Adams, a spokesperson for the forest. Leaving garbage in the forest can be dangerous to people, wildlife and the environment, according to a forest press release.

“Our community’s public lands are so special and it behooves all of us to take good care of them, use them and enjoy them responsibly,” said Teton County Prosecutor Dick Stout. “This is clearly an example of that not being done and it’s absolutely offensive.”

The forest has had issues of this kind over the years, Adams said. Groups of young people, who are primarily local residents, move from year to year, often using a site for several gatherings.

Forest law enforcement officers are investigating the crimes, Adams said. Individuals who have left trash at the campsite could be cited for six violations, including leaving an abandoned fire, building a fire without removing nearby flammable material, dumping litter and disposing of material that could pollute a waterway. These are misdemeanors that could carry a penalty of a fine of up to $5,000 or up to six months of imprisonment.

Other violations that often occur at these types of locations include underage use of alcohol, the illegal use of controlled substances and possession of drug paraphernalia, Adams said.

Offenders could also face state-level criminal charges related to littering and property destruction, Stout said.

“Certainly protecting our public lands is important to us locally in the community,” Stout said. “I’d be happy to assist.”

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