Yellowstone geology team removes record-breaking debris from hydrothermal areas
YELLOWSTONE (KIFI) — Yellowstone National Park welcomes more than 4.5 million visitors a year, but high foot traffic along with powerful gusts of wind has led to a record-breaking cleanup effort. According to a recent newsletter from the U.S. Geological Survey, Yellowstone’s Geology team has already pulled thousands of lost and discarded items out of fragile hot springs, geysers, and mud pots in 2026.
Trash, lost belongings, and litter do far more than just spoil Yellowstone's famous scenery. Yellowstone staff say the items can cause permanent ecological and physical damage to the park's fragile hydrothermal features.
Items dropped into vents can clog water supplies, block runoff channels, or leach harmful chemicals and sediment into the water. In the 20th century, the famous Morning Glory Pool permanently shifted color as a result of trash and items thrown in by visitors
Today, trained Geology Program staff safely navigate these high-risk areas to retrieve debris alongside their regular duties of chemical monitoring and hazard assessment.
"As of early 2026, Yellowstone's Geology team has removed more than 20,100 pieces of trash, 5,600 rocks and sticks, and over 280 hats from hydrothermal areas around the park—a record-setting year so far!" states the newsletter.
One major contributor to the cleanup was hats. In total, the USGS collected more than 280 hats from hydrothermal areas this season, which will be washed and donated to local organizations.
"Favorites this year include a FIFA 2026 Men’s World Cup hat, a baseball cap with “COWBOY HAT” on it, and a Roblox bucket hat from St. Kitts and Nevis," states the USGS.
Other unusual recoveries range from Invisalign retainers, fake nails, and floss picks to children's toys, Polaroid photos depicting the springs themselves, Pokémon figurines, and a miniature copy of The Vampire Diaries.
"If you're traveling through Yellowstone National Park, especially in hydrothermal areas, make sure to “stash your trash”—put wrappers, tissues, and other easily windblown items deep in your pockets, a bag, or, even better, a trash can! If you’re adventuring in a windy area, consider tightening or taking off your hat," states the USGS.
