Roosevelt Lake Tournament Trash and Fish Waste

[OneBlade]

From Abel Figueroa of Tonto National Forest: Figueroa, Abel - FS, AZ

Attention Folks,

I am reaching out regarding concerns recently brought to my attention about recurring incidents at the Roosevelt Lake recreation sites. Forest Service staff have notified me of an increase in trash being left in restroom receptacles and surrounding areas, as well as reports of fish scraps being disposed of in restroom facilities rather than over the side of a boat, off of the dock, or at the edge of the lake. 

At this time, we are not specifically attributing this activity to any one group or any one event. However, because these reports are occurring during periods of increased tournament activity, we are asking all permitted fishing event organizers to help reinforce proper waste disposal practices with participants and attendees.

As a reminder, operating plans currently state the following:

"Garbage dumpsters located at each boat ramp will be used to dispose of trash. All trash created by the event will be picked up and placed in Forest Service dumpsters unless specifically requested by the Forest Service Officer to haul trash off Forest."

There are multiple dumpsters available throughout the lake area, including at major boat ramps and recreation sites. We ask that tournament staff please remind participants to utilize these dumpsters and avoid placing trash or fish remains in restroom facilities. These restrooms are maintained by Forest Service personnel and are heavily used by the public, especially during the warmer months. Proper disposal helps maintain a clean and sanitary environment for all visitors. These dumpsters are located at:


Windy Hill - 3 dumpsters at Coyote Loop & one to be placed at Bobcat Boat Ramp.


Cholla - 2 at the boat ramp and if they are full there are 3 dumpsters near Teddy Bear Loop.


Burnt Corral - There is 1 right next to the boat ramp. 

To help prevent future issues, we encourage tournament organizers to continue emphasizing Leave No Trace principles and clean-up expectations during event briefings and weigh-ins. Events involving fish retention or cleaning should also ensure that appropriate fish-cleaning and trash collection measures are in place, so waste is properly handled and removed.

We appreciate your cooperation and partnership in helping keep Roosevelt Lake recreation sites clean and welcoming for everyone. Please feel free to reach out with any questions.

Thank you,

Abel A Figueroa
Resource Specialist / Special Uses
U.S Forest Service
Tonto National Forest