Durango, CO: Illegal camping sites along the Animas River were removed by city employees on Thursday, March 9, as part of the city's ongoing efforts to ensure the existing ordinances are enforced in a humane way to dissuade further illegal activity.
Approximately 18 cubic yards of debris, including human waste, have been removed in recent days. City staff will continue the cleanup on Friday. Nearly 20 camps were set up along the Animas River near Roosa Avenue recently. All camps were below the high-level water mark, which posed a significant safety issue had the river risen. Trash was separated from belongings. Four of the sites removed were multi-room dwellings.
The city’s code enforcement officers and police officers have regularly been working with nonprofit agencies to provide the help these individuals need. Code enforcement officers are ensuring there are services available prior to any citation being issued. While visiting the illegal camping sites the police officers and code enforcement officers are first offering available resources and services to those illegally camping. If those available services are refused, they are issued a citation for illegal camping. The city is also meeting with representatives of court system to find ways to ensure these citations are being adequately addressed.
A list of numerous services provided by the city can be found on the city’s website including information on camping rules, trespassing and prohibited activities.
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Media Contact
Tom Sluis
Public Information Officer - Spokesman
Phone: (970) 375-5090
Email: Tom.Sluis@durangogov.org
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