Before and after photos of an illegal dump site in Hobbs.

 

In 2003, Commissioner Lyons launched his “Don’t Trash the Trust” campaign in an effort to eradicate illegal dumping from state trust lands.

In partnership with local governments, businesses, community volunteers, private landowners, and State Land Office lessees, 1,000 acres of trust lands in 19 counties have been rid of trash.

Since the inception of the campaign, the Land Office has spent $1 million removing 13,423 tons of garbage, rusty household appliances, rotting upholstery, decaying cars, and hazardous materials.

Projects have included: solid waste removal, hazardous material removal, caliche pit clean up and contouring, fencing and gate construction, reclamation, and education outreach.

In accordance with Commissioner Lyons’ philosophy that government and community leaders should join forces to adopt comprehensive policies and build a framework of standards to combat illegal dumping, he has teamed up with the New Mexico Environment Department, New Mexico Clean and Beautiful, New Mexico Recycling Coalition, and the Roadrunner Chapter of the Solid Waste Association of North American to lead the effort against illegal dumping across the state.

An important part of the commissioner’s effort has been to educate people about the role of the State Land Office, how revenues earned on trust lands support education, and how illegal dumping affects that earning potential.

To report illegal dumping on trust lands contact: 

Steve Ikeda
Enviromental Specialist
(505) 827- 5788

E-mail: sikeda@slo.state.nm.us