That's very true, especially the "if they know what to do" part. It's amazing what has changed enviromentally speaking in the military during the last 21 years.

In the mid-80's I remember seeing hundreds of gallons of diesel drained, purposely, on the ground at the National Training Center (NTC) which is right next to Death Valley. Now you receive an extensive briefing about what you can and cannot do while there. Boy, you better not even THINK about touching one of those Desert Tortoise. Over in Yakima there are quite a few areas that are off-limits to vehicles because of flora and fauna.

ET - your points are exactly why this is an important issue. I agree that the military has done an excellent job as environmental stewards for the lands they command. I believe it's because of the regulations that has kept them in check, however. I'd hate to see the regulations rolled back and some of those detrimental practices resumed.

As far as the fines are concerned - individuals, commanders, and units pay those fines. And they can be quite significant.