Roads in Mesa County are meant to be scenic and safe, but trash spilling onto highways is an ongoing issue. County officials are urging residents to secure their loads when transporting trash to keep roads clean and safe for everyone. Uncovered garbage not only violates Colorado Traffic Code but also poses risks to drivers, wildlife, and the environment. This small step can make a big difference in preserving Mesa County’s natural beauty.

Why Securing Trash Loads Matters

Transporting trash without proper coverage isn’t just a matter of tidiness; it’s a legal requirement under Colorado’s Traffic Code. Unsecured loads can create hazards, leading to fines and even accidents. Large items, loose bags, and debris flying from vehicles have been reported on major roads, endangering drivers and adding clean-up burdens for local services.

• Uncovered trash can cause accidents if debris lands on the road, creating obstacles for other drivers.
• Loose items can end up in natural areas, harming wildlife and polluting ecosystems.
• Regularly reported incidents increase clean-up costs for the county, ultimately impacting taxpayers.

Mesa County officials stress that a few extra minutes spent securing trash loads could prevent such issues, benefitting the entire community.

Types of Unsecured Trash Causing Problems

Certain types of trash are more likely to cause problems if left uncovered, particularly larger items or loose waste. Mesa County has identified specific types of garbage that often end up scattered along roadsides due to unsecured transportation.

Common offenders include:

• Large Appliances: Items like refrigerators, washing machines, or furniture that aren’t tied down or covered.
• Loose Trash: Bags, boxes, or any lightweight debris that can easily fly out.
• Yard Waste and Heavy Debris: Rocks, cement, branches, and other landscaping materials that can fall out without proper coverage.
• Unsecured Garbage Cans: Trash cans that are loaded onto vehicles but not properly tied or covered, causing waste to spill out.

Taking a few precautions, like using tarps or secure straps, can prevent these types of trash from escaping during transit.

Risks to Wildlife and Environment

It’s not only people affected by stray trash; Mesa County’s wildlife and ecosystems suffer as well. Animals can mistakenly ingest small pieces of plastic or other waste, and larger items can disrupt natural habitats. In addition, loose trash often finds its way into waterways, harming fish and other aquatic life.

Environmental risks include:

• Wildlife Ingestion: Small bits of plastic or other debris can be consumed by animals, leading to injury or death.
• Waterway Pollution: Trash blown off roadsides often reaches streams and rivers, impacting aquatic ecosystems.
• Habitat Disruption: Large debris can obstruct natural habitats, affecting native plant and animal populations.

Mesa County’s natural areas and wildlife are treasured by locals, and securing trash loads is a simple way to help protect these environments.

Steps for Securing Your Load

County officials offer practical advice for residents to ensure trash is safely transported. Using the right equipment can make all the difference, and it’s often an inexpensive fix. Here are some quick tips for keeping your load secure:

• Use a Tarp: Covering trash with a heavy tarp can keep items from blowing away.
• Tie-Down Straps: Securing heavy objects with durable straps helps keep them in place.
• Double-Check Loads: Before driving off, ensure everything is properly covered and tied.
• Avoid Overloading: Don’t stack items too high, as they’re more likely to fall off.

By following these steps, residents can help reduce litter on roads and contribute to Mesa County’s goal of maintaining clean, safe highways.

A Call to Action for Community Responsibility

Mesa County officials are reminding residents that small actions make a difference. Whether you’re hauling yard waste, furniture, or household trash, taking a few minutes to secure the load shows respect for the community and the environment. Local authorities hope that with greater awareness, fewer incidents of roadside litter will occur, keeping roads cleaner and safer for all.