More than three million pounds of litter removed

November 13, 2014

Idaho’s roadsides are indebted to Idaho’s Centennial Celebration in 1990 and the “Idaho is Too Great to Litter” campaign that was rolled out to help keep them clean. During its 33 years, the Adopt-A-Highway program has accounted for thousands of tons of trash picked up from Idaho’s roadsides, amounting to millions of dollars in savings redirected to highway construction and needed maintenance to improve Gem State roads and bridges.

Volunteer groups “adopt” a specific stretch of highway – usually two miles long – and take responsibility for keeping it clean through regular litter patrols throughout the year.

ITD estimates that the Adopt-A-Highway program saves about $750,000 annually by using volunteer labor – in 33 years, that adds up to about $24.8-million. More than 3.3 million pounds of trash and debris have been removed from Idaho’s roadsides through the program, including the trash pick-up efforts of inmate crews through the Department of Corrections.

There are more than 1,000 active volunteer groups participating in the statewide program. More than half of Idaho’s highways have been adopted. There are still many opportunities for other groups and individuals to get involved. Almost a third of the roadsides on the state’s highway system are available for adoption.

For more information about the Adopt-a-Highway program or to get involved in the five North Idaho counties, contact area coordinator, Julie Roseborough 600 W Prairie Drive, Coeur d'Alene, ID 83815, (208) 772-1240, or julie.roseborough@itd.idaho.gov.