Spring is time to be on lookout for meth trash, ISP says

PUTNAMVILLE -- Springtime and warm temperatures bring out folks hiking, biking and mushroom hunting along rural roads here in central Indiana.

Every spring the Indiana State Police Meth Suppression Section likes to remind the public to watch for unattended backpacks and gym bags that may contain toxic meth trash.

Last Friday DEA-trained meth suppression troopers from the Pendleton District conducted their annual "Ditch Walk," where they walked along country roads in Delaware County recovering dangerous meth trash.

Troopers found a variety of meth trash ranging from drink bottles with white residue, to bottles with toxic liquids as well as used and discarded syringes. They found around 15 discarded "one-pot" meth labs.

Pendleton District Meth Suppression Trooper Rich Clay reminds the public to be vigilant while participating in outdoor activities. "If you're out mushroom hunting or fishing, or if your civic group is out cleaning up a roadside, beware."

"Things to watch for are discarded backpacks or gym bags; liquid-filled plastic drink bottles with white residue; a large amount of discarded coffee filters; discarded liquid drain opener bottles or camp fuel cans. If you encounter any of these items, don't disturb them. Call us and let us check it out."

Anyone with information about illegal drug use is encouraged to call the Putnamville Post at 653-4114 or the Indiana State Police Drug Tip Line at 1-800-453-4756. Tips can be made and kept anonymous.

The Indiana Meth Investigation System or IMIS, can also take tips on meth labs. Just go to www.meth.in.gov and click on the "Report Suspected Meth Activity" Link.

For a listing of Indiana houses contaminated by meth go to the link at http://www.in.gov/meth/2371.htm.