Illegal fly tipping at a Fort William beauty spot has caused £50,000 worth of damage.
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (Sepa) is leading an investigation and plan of action with support from police and Highland Council.
The bodies are working to address the problem at Mount Alexander, Camaghael.
Sepa will work with the local community to find ways of restricting access to the site. Its officers say it is evident that tradesmen in the area are persistently dumping waste materials to avoid paying the cost of disposal at legitimate waste management sites.
This is clearly for financial gain, with complete disregard for the law and the possible environmental consequences, the agency has stated.
It is estimated that it could cost up to £50,000 to return the site to its naturally beautiful state.
Sepa officers are also visiting local businesses to gather information, check permits and reinforce the responsibilities and obligations that apply to anyone producing, carrying or managing waste.
Chief Executive of Sepa, Terry A’Hearn, said: “Every day Sepa works to protect and enhance Scotland’s environment. Compliance is not optional and tackling illegal waste management activities is one of our major priorities.
“It is a criminal offense to illegally dispose of waste, with firm obligations on the waste producer to ensure their waste is managed by a SEPA registered waste carrier at a fully-licensed site. There are significant penalties for traders or business moving or disposing of waste illegally, as well as clean-up costs for landowners who’s sites are used for illegal disposal.
He added: “If you suspect flytipping is being carried out, or to report illegal traders, calling the Dumb Dumpers Stopline on 0845 2 30 40 90 or by completing a form on the dumbdumpers.org website.”
Sergeant Ewan Calder of the Road Policing Unit in Fort William, said: “During this operation we will be working in partnership with Sepa to deter fly tipping and to take action against anyone found to be committing any waste management related offences.”
