Join Us in Keeping Highway 9 South Clean with Our Adopt a Highway Program - CLICK 'SIGN UP' @ the bottom to get involved!

Keeping our roads clean benefits everyone. Litter along highways not only spoils the natural beauty but also harms wildlife, pollutes waterways, an

d creates safety hazards. To tackle this issue, we have adopted 3 miles of Highway 9 South as part of the Adopt a Highway litter control program. This initiative invites community members to join in regular trash pick-up events to maintain a cleaner, safer environment for all.

If you want to make a positive impact in your community and enjoy the outdoors, this program offers a great opportunity. Below, you will find everything you need to know about the program, how to get involved, and why your participation matters.

Highway 9 South clean and litter-free after community cleanup

What Is the Adopt a Highway Program?

The Adopt a Highway program is a community-driven effort where groups or individuals volunteer to keep a section of highway free from litter. By adopting a stretch of road, volunteers commit to picking up trash several times a year. This helps reduce pollution, improve road safety, and create a more welcoming environment for travelers.

Our group has adopted a 3-mile segment of Highway 9 South. This means we organize and coordinate trash pick-up days throughout the year to maintain this area. Volunteers receive safety training, supplies like gloves and trash bags, and clear instructions before each event.

Why Highway 9 South Needs Your Help

Highway 9 South is a busy route used by thousands of drivers daily. Unfortunately, litter accumulates quickly due to traffic volume and occasional illegal dumping. Common types of trash include plastic bottles, fast food wrappers, cigarette butts, and discarded packaging.

Litter along highways causes several problems:

• Environmental damage: Trash can harm plants and animals living near the road.

• Water pollution: Rain washes litter into nearby streams and rivers.

• Safety risks: Debris on the road can cause accidents or distract drivers.

• Visual blight: Litter makes the area look neglected and uninviting.

  
  

By volunteering to clean this highway, you help protect local ecosystems, improve safety, and enhance the community’s appearance.

How You Can Participate

Joining the Adopt a Highway program is simple and rewarding. Here’s how you can get involved:

1. Submit your contact information. We keep a list of volunteers interested in participating.

2. Receive event notifications. Before each trash pick-up day, you will get details about the date, time, meeting location, and safety guidelines.

3. Attend trash pick-up events. Volunteers work in teams to collect litter along the adopted highway segment. We provide all necessary equipment.

4. Enjoy the benefits. You’ll spend time outdoors, meet neighbors, and contribute to a cleaner community.

   
   

No prior experience is needed. We welcome individuals, families, groups, and organizations. Whether you can join every event or just once a year, your help makes a difference.

What to Expect on Trash Pick-Up Days

Safety is our top priority during clean-up events. Volunteers receive a brief orientation covering:

• Proper use of gloves and trash bags

• How to safely work near traffic

• Identifying hazardous materials (which should not be handled)

• Staying hydrated and wearing appropriate clothing

  
  

We work in small groups spaced along the highway to cover the area efficiently. The pick-up usually lasts 1 to 2 hours, depending on the amount of litter. Afterward, collected trash is gathered for disposal by the local AR DOT.

Volunteers often find the experience satisfying and even fun. It’s a chance to enjoy fresh air, get light exercise, and see immediate results from your efforts.

Benefits of Joining the Program

Participating in the Adopt a Highway program offers more than just a cleaner road. Here are some benefits you can expect:

• Community pride: Taking care of your local environment builds a stronger sense of belonging.

• Environmental impact: Your work helps protect wildlife and reduce pollution.

• Social connections: Meet like-minded people who care about the community.

• Health boost: Outdoor activity and fresh air improve physical and mental well-being.

• Educational opportunities: Learn about local ecosystems and waste management.

  
  

Many volunteers say they feel proud knowing their efforts make a visible difference. Plus, it’s a great way to teach children about responsibility and environmental stewardship.

Tips for a Successful Cleanup

To get the most out of your volunteer experience, keep these tips in mind:

• Wear sturdy shoes and comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor work.

• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water to stay protected and hydrated.

• Use gloves provided to avoid direct contact with trash.

• Work carefully near the road and follow safety instructions.

• Dispose of trash only in designated bags or containers.

• Report any hazardous waste or large debris to organizers instead of handling it yourself.

  
  

By preparing well, you’ll have a safe and productive cleanup day.

How to Sign Up

If you want to join us in keeping Highway 9 South clean, please submit your contact information through our sign-up form. We will add you to our volunteer list and notify you before each scheduled trash pick-up event.

Your participation, no matter how often, helps maintain a cleaner, safer highway for everyone. Together, we can make a lasting difference in our community.

Sign Up Form