Residents urge county action on illegal dumping; propose free roll-offs and dump passes

During public comment at the Oct. 23 Huerfano County commissioners meeting, two residents asked the county to address increasing illegal dumping along county roads and public lands.

Nick Ferris described “disgusting trash dumping” in the county and said prior grassroots efforts included trash pickup, fencing and volunteer cleanups. He proposed forming a committee, increasing public education, and offering free dump passes or periodic free roll-off events; his sister was noted as involved in past efforts.

Ryan Geese, who identified himself as living on County Road 358, said he has observed at least four dumpings in the last two years along a mile of frontage adjacent to BLM land, including refrigerators, couches and building materials. Geese said the problem increased after the transfer station began operations and urged the county to consider free roll-offs or free dump passes so residents could dispose of bulky items legally.

Both speakers identified specific problem locations including Bear Creek and a stretch off Highway 69. They referenced prior volunteers and local contacts who have worked on cleanups.

Their remarks were part of the public-comment period; no formal county response or immediate board action on the proposals was recorded in the transcript.