San Bernardino National Forest officials are calling on the public to assist in identifying the culprits responsible for the unlawful disposal of large quantities of motor oil on forest property near Hesperia and the Cajon Pass. The incident, discovered on January 18, involved around 200 gallons of used engine oil in containers ranging from five-quart bottles to five-gallon buckets.
The illegal dumping of hazardous materials is a severe offense, carrying significant legal consequences both at the state and federal levels. Violating California penal code, which considers dumping on public and private property a crime punishable by a fine of up to $10,000, the perpetrators may also face up to six months in jail under the California health and safety code.
Hazardous illegal dumping poses a severe threat to the environment, causing extensive damage to natural resources and endangering wildlife. The spilled oil contaminated the ground while other forms of waste were carelessly discarded alongside it. San Bernardino National Forest officials had to enlist the assistance of a hazardous material crew to clean up the site, which was only completed recently.
Authorities are urging anyone with information related to this illegal dump to come forward and report it. If you have any details that may help in identifying those responsible, please contact (626) 340-5587 during business hours or (909) 383-5594 after hours.
The impact of illegal dumping is far-reaching and requires the vigilant cooperation of the public to preserve the beauty and integrity of San Bernardino National Forest. Let us stand together and ensure that those who disregard the law and endanger our environment are held accountable for their actions.
Daily Press reporter Rene Ray De La Cruz contributed to this article. For further inquiries, he can be reached at 760-951-6227 or [email protected]. Stay updated by following him on Twitter @DP_ReneDeLaCruz.
(Image: A motor oil container from an illegal dump site in the San Bernardino National Forest.)
FAQ:
Q: What is the article about?
A: The article is about the unlawful disposal of large quantities of motor oil on forest property near Hesperia and the Cajon Pass in the San Bernardino National Forest.
Q: How much motor oil was illegally dumped?
A: Around 200 gallons of used engine oil were dumped.
Q: What are the legal consequences for illegal dumping in California?
A: Illegal dumping is punishable by a fine of up to $10,000 and may also result in up to six months in jail, according to the California penal code and health and safety code.
Q: Why is illegal dumping considered a severe offense?
A: Illegal dumping of hazardous materials causes extensive damage to natural resources, endangers wildlife, and poses a significant threat to the environment.
Q: How was the site cleaned up?
A: San Bernardino National Forest officials had to enlist the assistance of a hazardous material crew to clean up the site.
Q: How can people report information about the illegal dump?
A: Anyone with information is urged to come forward and report it by contacting (626) 340-5587 during business hours or (909) 383-5594 after hours.
Definitions:
– Culprits: Individuals responsible for an offense or crime.
– Hazardous materials: Substances that can pose a risk to health, safety, property, or the environment.
– Penal code: A set of laws that describes crimes and their punishments.
– Health and safety code: Legislation that outlines regulations and standards to protect public health and safety.
Suggested related links:
– San Bernardino National Forest
– California government website
