FROAM campsite, north of Briagolong, has been ruined by irresponsible campers leaving their rubbish behind for others to clean up.
Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning staff recently investigated a report of rubbish dumping at the campsite and are hoping to find evidence of who dumped it.
DELWP Macalister District forest manager Jim Noonan said DELWP was appealing for information from the public about this incident or any other irresponsible behaviour at forest camping grounds.
“We’re appalled at this sort of behaviour and we know that other responsible people who love and care for the bush are concerned too,” Mr Noonan said.
“Most people do the right thing, respect the privilege of being able to visit a place like this and clean up after themselves, leaving it as they found it for others to enjoy.
“But unfortunately not everyone is so respectful.
“We’ve been sifting through the rubbish in the hopes of finding the identity of the people responsible.
“Dumping rubbish at a campsite can incur a fine of $311 and that includes small bits of litter like cigarette butts or ring pulls.
“If anyone has information about the people who did this we would like to hear from them as soon as possible.”
Jaz Prow, who recently visited the area on a day trip, said the people who left the mess should be ashamed of themselves.
“First of all it’s free camping, secondly it costs council money to remove your waste and thirdly it’s a hazard to the wildlife and visitors,” said Ms Prow.
“It’s not hard to ‘Take Your Rubbish With You’ which is what is signposted before you even enter.”
Anyone can report environmental crime to DELWP on 136 186, Sale police on 5142 2200 or anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
