From the majestic Great Smoky Mountains to the lively streets of Nashville, Tennessee’s beauty knows no bounds. However, maintaining this natural splendor requires continuous effort, especially when it comes to keeping litter off the roads. The Adopt-A-Highway program plays a crucial role in preserving Tennessee’s scenic beauty.
What is the Adopt-A-Highway Program
The Adopt-A-Highway program is a grassroots initiative that empowers communities and organizations to take ownership of maintaining and cleaning stretches of public roadways. Since the program’s inception in 1989, our volunteers have collected more than 12 million pounds of litter from Tennessee’s roadsides. The concept is simple: volunteers commit to cleaning up a two-mile stretch of highway at least four times a year.
How Does the Adopt-A-Highway Program Work?
Becoming part of the solution is easy and rewarding! Here’s how you can get involved:
- Choose a Group Coordinator: Designate someone to serve as the main contact for communicating with the the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT).
- Register Your Group: Fill out a quick application form to officially sign up and join the program.
- Pick Your Route: Local businesses, community groups, or even individuals can sign up. Work with a District Coordinator to find the sign-up to adopt a two-mile stretch of Tennessee highway. By taking responsibility for this section, you’re not only helping preserve the scenic beauty of Tennessee but making a direct impact on your community.
- Make It Official: Once you’ve picked your stretch of road, it’s time to make it official. Your group will sign an agreement with the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT), which outlines the commitment, cleanup responsibilities, and essential safety guidelines.
- Schedule Your Cleanup and Follow Safety Guidelines: Plan your cleanup events and mark them on your group’s event calendar. You’ll need to commit to at least four cleanups a year. Be sure and follow safety guidelines to ensure a secure and successful cleanup.
- Report Your Activity: Report your group’s efforts to TDOT once your cleanup is done. They will collect and dispose of the trash you gathered.
Special Perks for Volunteers
Reducing roadside litter comes with many great perks, including:
+ Get That Gear:
TDOT will provide volunteers with all necessary supplies and safety materials (trash bags, trash grabbers, gloves, caution signs and class 2 safety vests).
+ Group Recognition
Your group name posted on a recognition panel installed below the official Adopt-A-Highway sign.
If your group collects the most garbage in a month, you could be named Adopt-A-Highway group of the month and receive recognition for your cleanup efforts
Your cleanup group’s photo could also be featured in your local newspaper.
+ Tennessee Pride
There’s a lot of pride in knowing you are doing your part to help keep Tennessee beautiful. The state of Tennessee is grateful for your hard work!
Benefits of Adopt-A-Highway
Litter Reduction: Cleaner highways make Tennessee more beautiful. Well-maintained roads keep drivers safe too because they reduce the risk of accidents and ensure smoother journeys for everyone.
Cost-Efficiency: Volunteers in the Adopt-A-Highway program directly save taxpayers money. Taking action lifts the financial burden from the state. TDOT doesn’t have to rely solely on state funds for cleanup because of your efforts.
Community Engagement: The Adopt-A-Highway program strengthens community bonds and inspires civic pride. Whether it’s a local business, school group, or family, Adopt-A-Highway unites people under one common goal: preserving the beauty of Tennessee.
Environmental Impact: Removing litter prevents harmful pollutants from breaking down into dangerous microplastics. You are not only helping protect our rivers, lakes, and wildlife but also ensuring that Tennessee’s natural habitats stay healthy and thriving.
Economic Boost: Clean roads and scenic views aren’t just a pleasure to look at – they also make Tennessee a top destination for visitors. A well-maintained environment attracts tourists, encourages them to return, and also contributes to the state’s economic growth.
Take Action and Help Tennessee Shine
Tennessee’s charm lies in its natural beauty, and the Adopt-A-Highway program is a crucial guardian of that beauty. Together with programs like Nobody Trashes Tennessee, we can keep our highways clean, protect wildlife, and ensure that Tennessee’s natural beauty endures for generations to come. Join the Adopt-A-Highway program today and be part of a movement that’s making a real difference.
