Illegal Dump Free PA

Funder: PA Cleanways Inc (Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful) with support from the PA Department of Environmental Protection

Geographic Scope: Pennsylvania (state-wide program)

Program Focus:
Help local government and local law enforcement officials curb illegal dumping by providing surveillance equipment to expose and prosecute illegal dumpers.

Background

Illegal dumping is a state-wide concern found in every county. Illegal dumps:

• Contaminate soil, surface and groundwater supplies
• Are unsightly and negatively impact property values
• Present public health hazards by attracting disease-spreading rodents and mosquitos
• Send a message that the community is neglected and impact quality of life
• Require costly municipal cleanups averaging $600 per ton or roughly $3,000 per site, diverting tax dollars and staff resources

A 2013 pilot program was instrumental in prosecution and convictions in Allegheny, Armstrong, and Elk counties.

What Grant Recipients Receive

Grant recipients receive as a temporary loan a surveillance kit to be placed at undisclosed locations, including:

• Three concealable, lockable cameras and accessories
• Equipment that captures conviction-worthy footage of license plates and illegal dumpers, even at night
• One wireless camera that emails pictures when triggered for almost instant results
• Technical assistance from Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful for installation
• Option to purchase equipment at the end of the grant period

Eligibility

• Local municipalities
• Local law enforcement officials

Application Process

A Camera Loan Application is available. Specific application instructions are not detailed on the website, but applicants should contact Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful directly.

Required Materials and Contact

• Complete the Camera Loan Application form
• Contact Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful for submission instructions:
  • Phone: 724-836-4121
  • Email: info@keeppabeautiful.org
  • Address: 105 West Fourth Street, 2nd Floor, Greensburg, PA 15601