The Tennessee Department of Transportation’s (TDOT) latest Visible Litter Study shows littering in Tennessee has decreased by 12 percent since 2016. While these findings are encouraging, there are still more than 88 million pieces of litter on the state’s roadways at any given time.
“Litter is more than an eyesore,” said TDOT’s Adopt-A-Highway Program Coordinator, Brittany Morris. “Preventing and reducing litter not only helps protect the scenic beauty of Tennessee, but it also helps protect wildlife and water quality, and helps maintain healthy and vibrant communities.”
Adopt-A-Highway is a completely free program and is an excellent way for individuals, families, businesses, community groups, and civic organizations to give back and make a positive impact on the environment. Program participants are also rewarded with a free roadside recognition panel displaying their chosen message along the adopted route.
Adopt-A-Highway volunteers must be at least 12 years old and commit to cleaning up a TDOT-approved two-mile stretch of roadside each quarter. TDOT provides all necessary supplies, including plastic bags, trash grabbers, gloves, caution signs, and safety vests, and will even pick up the filled bags at the end of the cleanup.
Since its inception in 1989, Adopt-A-Highway participants have removed more than 12 million pounds of litter from Tennessee roadsides. Last year, more than 87,000 pounds of litter was removed through the efforts of volunteers. In total, more than 476 miles of highway across the state have been adopted.
Counties and routes available for adoption include:
Franklin: Winchester: David Crockett Pkwy W., Sewanee: Jump Off Rd, and Estill Springs: Tullahoma Hwy into N Main St.
Grundy: Altamont: Viola Rd into Main St., Tracy City: US Hwy 41, and Palmer: Main St.
Warren: McMinnville: Beersheba St. Centertown: Old Nashville Hwy, and Morrison: Manchester Hwy.
