Regional Environmental Task Force
What is the RETF?
The Capital Area Regional Environmental Task Force (RETF) is a multi-jurisdictional law enforcement effort of 12 government agencies in Central Texas. This group was formed to address the problems associated with illegal dumping and other environmental crimes. Task Force Members assist one another on investigations in Central Texas through an Interlocal Agreement signed in 1996.
The Capital Area Council of Governments (CAPCOG) provides centralized coordination for the Task Force with funding through the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) from tipping fees charged at municipal solid waste facilities. Members of the RETF also coordinate on investigations with members of the Texas Environmental Enforcement Task Force.
In addition to coordination on case investigations, the RETF provides support for its members in the areas of technical expertise, outreach and education, and training in environmental laws. The coordinator for the Task Force provides a central contact point for complaints via the Illegal Dumping Hotline (1-877-NO-DUMPS) which are then referred to the appropriate jurisdictions for investigation.
Resources
NEW!!! Environmental Law Enforcement Guide for your smart phone! Download the file HERE (INSTRUCTIONS for iPhones)
You can also access the PDF HERE.
REPORT ILLEGAL DUMPING!
Please dial 1-877-NO-DUMPS (1-877-663-8677) to report suspicious activity, or click the link to use the Online Illegal Dumping Hotline Form.
Please Note: The hotline service area includes Bastrop, Blanco, Burnet, Caldwell, Fayette, Hays, Lee, Travis, and Williamson Counties.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:
Texas Commission on Environmental Quality
Texas Environmental Law Enforcement Association
Texas Illegal Dumping Resource Center
Keep Texas Beautiful
Where Do I Recycle/Dispose of My Items?
This is a common question in the Capital Area. Many types of solid waste require a variety of facilities for disposal. Our ONLINE RECYCLING MAP shows the locations and contacts for all recycling centers, household hazardous waste facilities, and landfills in the CAPCOG Region. Simply click on the placemark of your choice to view the contact information for that location.
Training Events
Basic & Intermediate Environmental Law
Certified instructors from various agencies, including the City of Austin and the Travis County Attorney's Office will provide insight and information about the growing problem of illegal dumping and other environmental crimes. Subject areas will include Civil vs. Criminal Prosecution, Unauthorized Discharges, Solid Waste and Nuisance Violations, Search/Administrative Warrants, and Outdoor Burning. Classes provide continuing education credit for TCLEOSE, Code Enforcement, Sanitarians, and OSSF inspectors.
Click HERE to register for an upcoming training event.
