WOODBRIDGE, Va. – A troubling cluster of discarded tires was recently found lodged on a sandbar near channel marker 15, just downstream from the Route 1 bridge over the Occoquan River.
Local residents and longtime conservation advocates K.P. and Myra Lau, co-founders of the Belmont Bay Paddlers (BBP), a kayak club that has been organizing river cleanups since 2015, made the discovery.
“Previously, we found them along the southern bank from the railway bridge to this same spot,” said K.P., who helped coordinate the most recent cleanup. “The location hasn’t changed much—it’s just as concerning now as it was then.”
Most of the tires appear to be from commercial vehicles. “There were a few smaller ones, but the size and number indicate illegal commercial dumping,” K.P. said, noting that the tires included both truck and standard car sizes.
While Prince William County officials have expressed interest in the issue, local action has been limited. K.P. said Supervisor Victor Angry voiced support for installing surveillance cameras on the Route 1 bridge but acknowledged that someone would need to spearhead the effort for it to move forward.
In the meantime, BBP continues to partner with the Prince William Soil and Water Conservation District. After retrieving the tires, the group contacts Veronica Tangiri, who coordinates tire disposal through the county’s Adopt-A-Stream Program.
Although the Laus are no longer formally managing the BBP organization, they still lead biannual cleanup efforts. “We used to have crews of kayakers go out, but this year Myra and I just did it ourselves once we realized how many tires were out there,” K.P. said. He added that cleanups often coincide with broader neighborhood events to reinforce the message that trash on land eventually ends up in the river.
K.P. calls for increased public awareness and visible warnings to deter future dumping. “Signs that say ‘No Tire Dumping’ and the possibility of tracking tire serial numbers might make people think twice,” he said. “Enforcement exists—it’s a Class I misdemeanor—but awareness and visibility are key.”
Recent Stories
This weekend marks your last chance to catch two standout productions on local stages before the curtains close for good.
Open Floor Plan
A beloved annual tradition at Williams Ordinary allowed visitors to step into the past—and into a tavern—during Tavern Night, hosted by the Prince William County Office of Historic Preservation.
This charming 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom rambler in Fauquier County just saw a price reduction and is ready to welcome new owners looking for peaceful country living with modern comforts.
Go Ape, America’s leading aerial adventure park provider, is proud to unveil a revitalized experience across its iconic Zipline & Adventure Parks. This refresh goes beyond physical upgrades; it reflects a renewed mission to foster meaningful connections between people, nature, and self.
“Go Ape has always been about thrilling treetop adventures,” says Chrissy Very, Senior Director of Marketing. “Now, we’re redefining what it means to truly connect: through purpose-driven outdoor experiences that inspire courage, reflection, and joy.”
As access to public outdoor spaces becomes more limited, Go Ape steps in to bridge the gap with immersive, inclusive, and wellness-focused adventures for individuals, families, and groups.
Alt-rock legends Gin Blossoms are performing a FREE live show TONIGHT, Wednesday, June 11th at The Bullpen – and D.C., you’re invited.
Power to the Patients will be hosting Gin Blossoms for Special Performance at Congressional Baseball Game Pre-Party.
This unforgettable night under the summer sky features the band behind ‘90s classics like “Hey Jealousy,” “Found Out About You,” and “Follow You Down.” Expect a packed crowd, cold drinks, and killer energy.
Your Weight Matters National Convention
Hosted by the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) since 2012, this highly-anticipated gathering is the nation’s leading gathering focused on empowering individuals with science-based education, support and practical tools for managing weight and improving health.
This unique Convention truly has something
Van Metre 5K Run
Participate in the 33rd Annual Van Metre 5K Run—a race that goes further than 3.1 miles, where every stride you take supports Children’s National Hospital. The Van Metre 5K Run donates 100% of proceeds to Children’s National Hospital and has
