July 20, 2026 – Calaveras County Sheriff’s Office officials report that in partnership with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD), and multiple local, state, and federal agencies, recently assisted with a coordinated effort at Big Bar Day Use Area to address ongoing public safety, environmental, and community concerns.

Over the past several months, the Sheriff’s Office received multiple reports regarding unauthorized camping, abandoned encampments, accumulation of trash, drug paraphernalia, sanitation concerns, and other conditions impacting the safety, cleanliness, and accessibility of the area for residents and visitors.

Recognizing the importance of a collaborative approach, the Calaveras County Sheriff’s Office partnered with Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Rangers, East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) Rangers, Calaveras County Behavioral Health Specialists, California Department of Fish and Wildlife Officers, Tuolumne-Calaveras Unit (TCU) Fire Prevention Officers, Calaveras County Code Compliance, and Calaveras County Animal Services to address these concerns.

This coordinated effort focused on improving conditions at the Big Bar Day Use Area, protecting public resources, and ensuring the area remains safe and accessible to all visitors. Participating agencies worked together to address concerns, provide outreach and resources when appropriate, and promote responsible use of public lands.

During the effort, a large accumulation of trash and discarded materials was identified within the area. BLM crews from the Amador County area will be assisting with the removal and cleanup of these materials in the coming days as part of the continued effort to restore and maintain the site.

“BLM-managed public lands and recreation areas are important resources that make our region such a special place,” said Sheriff Rachelle Whiting. “Keeping these areas safe and enjoyable requires all of us working together. I greatly appreciate the collective effort of all agencies and partners involved. Concerns affecting our public spaces do not belong to just one agency to solve, and it is encouraging to see so many organizations come together, support one another, and work toward solutions that benefit our entire community.”

The Sheriff’s Office will continue working with BLM and partner agencies to address concerns, respond to community needs, and support efforts to maintain the Big Bar Day Use Area as a safe and accessible public recreation resource.

The Calaveras County Sheriff’s Office appreciates the commitment of each agency and individual who contributed to this effort. The cooperation and dedication demonstrated by these partners allowed resources, expertise, and personnel to come together to address concerns impacting the Big Bar Day Use Area.

To report a concern or incident involving the Big Bar Day Use Area, please contact the Calaveras County Sheriff’s Office at 209-754-6500.

In the event of an emergency, please dial 9-1-1.




Source & photos: Calaveras County Sheriff’s Office