PHOTOS: You Won’t Believe All The Crap at Balanced Rock

Balanced Rock Shooting Areas Plagued by Litter: Sheriff’s Office Calls for Accountability

The Twin Falls County Sheriff’s Office is calling attention to a growing issue near Balanced Rock—excessive littering at popular shooting areas. According to Sergeant Ken Mencl, people are leaving behind everything from shotgun shells to beer cans, turning the area into an eyesore.

What’s Being Left Behind?

During a recent patrol, Sgt. Mencl was shocked by the mess.

"I was just thoroughly disgusted... Hundreds of spent shotgun shells, beer cans, glass bottles, even the boxes from the shotgun shells just discarded everywhere."

People aren’t just leaving small amounts of trash—it’s full-scale dumping. Some bring out old junk just to shoot it up and leave the remnants behind.

Littering Is More Than an Eyesore—It’s Illegal

Littering on public lands isn’t just disrespectful—it’s against the law.

• First offense: Minimum fine of $206.50
• Repeat offenses: Fines up to $1,000, possible jail time, and community service

The Sheriff's Office made it clear in a recent Facebook post: "Public lands are not your trash can!"

Hikers and Visitors Affected by the Trash

The impact goes beyond just an ugly view.

One concerned citizen shared that they had to cut their hike short after encountering so much broken glass on the trails.

"This is a beautiful area, but it’s being ruined," Mencl said. "People aren’t packing out what they pack in, and it’s turning a scenic outdoor spot into a dumping ground."

Drinking and Shooting? That’s a Crime, Too

Another major issue: Beer cans with bullet holes left behind.

Sgt. Mencl reminded the public that it’s illegal to be in possession of a firearm while intoxicated under Idaho law.

"You cannot be impaired and in possession of a firearm. If you're drinking and shooting, that's a serious legal issue."

Who Cleans This Up?

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for cleanup efforts. Cleaning up public lands isn’t free—it takes time, resources, and manpower.

 There's also been some discussion of arranging a public cleanup event.

 "We’re in the early stages of working with Sheriff Johnson and county commissioners to see what we can do," Mencl explained.

How You Can Help

Want to help keep Balanced Rock clean? Here’s what you can do:

✅ Report littering – If you see someone leaving a mess, report them to the Twin Falls County Sheriff’s Office.
✅ Document violations – If safe, take photos or video of offenders and their license plates.
✅ Pack out extra trash – Bring an extra bag and pick up any litter you see.
✅ Stay tuned for cleanup events – If the Sheriff’s Office organizes a cleanup, volunteers will be needed.

Let’s Do Better, Twin Falls

The message is clear: Pack it in, pack it out. Public lands belong to everyone—let’s keep them clean.