Open Letter to Contractors That Just Leave Their Litter Everywhere: It’s Ridiculous!

To anyone who values the beauty of our shared spaces,

As an outdoor enthusiast who finds immense joy in walking, hiking, or riding my horse around our local trails, mountains, and walking paths... through what used to be beautiful rural areas around the Tri-Cities and beyond, I am writing to express a growing frustration and, frankly, a deep sadness.

Why is there garbage strewn everywhere???

 While generally easygoing, the sheer volume of garbage carelessly discarded throughout our community has stirred a level of annoyance I can no longer ignore.

It is disheartening to witness the increasing amounts of litter, particularly construction debris, polluting both new and established areas.

There is simply no excuse for this blatant disregard for our environment.

Having worked in the construction industry in the past, I know firsthand that efficient cleanup during and immediately after construction is entirely possible.

In Benton City, a new subdivision bordering my cherished trail along the irrigation canal has became a constant source of plastic sheeting, wrapping, bottles, foam, tape, and cardboard strewn across the hillsides.

That mess went on for over a year, with excessive garbage cluttering all of the natural vegetation bordering the trail and canal.

My daily walks or horse rides were often spent collecting what I could carry back with me to my home garbage receptacle. (a small act against a tide of thoughtless disposal).

This is not isolated; the trails around the Tri-Cities echo the same disheartening scene.

Today, a ride near Badger Mountain, amidst vineyard beauty marred by construction, was choked with trash.

It truly brings me to tears. Doesn't anyone feel a responsibility to simply dispose of their waste properly?

Why are construction crews and companies not held accountable for maintaining clean worksites?

The wind carries this debris for miles, tangling it in our natural landscape and turning beautiful areas into unsightly dumping grounds.

Since 2020, this issue has become increasingly apparent. It begs the question: Have regulations weakened, or is enforcement lacking?

I believe it is time for accountability. Those who litter should face consequences – fines, mandatory clean-up, or even the loss of contracts.

Let us collectively demand a higher standard of care for our shared environment. It's time to stop the trashing of our beautiful home.

Sincerely,

A Concerned Citizen and Outdoor Enthusiast from Benton City, WA