In a recent article published by the Daily Bulletin, Caltrans is encouraging motorists to keep the state clean with its “Don’t Trash California” campaign and is working hard to bring forth public awareness to the amount of money being spent annually on trash cleanup.
Last year, the state transportation agency spent $62 MILLION statewide on litter removal. That work included the removal of 155,000 cubic yards of trash, enough to fill over 10,000 garbage trucks!
Programs like the Adopt-A-Highway volunteer program and the Sponsor A Highway sponsorship program have greatly helped reduce that spending by having local groups cleaning up trash themselves, and also by having AHMC crew members cleaning up trash in exchange for sponsorship recognition along the freeways.
In addition, work release programs and one day permitted cleanups by local groups and state agencies are helping to reduce the problem, but this is simply not enough.
Just like in California, state transportation agencies are struggling with the ever amounting trash that continues to grow each year. This reduces property values in communities, it makes roadways unsafe for drivers, and it requires more and more money from taxpayers to keep trash levels low, when that money could be spent elsewhere by the state.
Easiest way you can make a difference? … DON’T LITTER!
Carry bags in your car to throw away trash instead of throwing it out your window. For those people that drive pick-up trucks, make sure loose particles are securely covered or tied to your truck bed so trash does not fly out onto the roadways.
If you are looking for additional ways you can help, join the Sponsor A Highway program. Your company will get your name and logo on a sign where AHMC crews will remove trash along your sponsored area in exchange for a monthly fee. It’s easy, it’s simple, and our crews do all the work while your business gets all the recognition.
We currently operate in 20+ different markets. For more information about your particular market click on this link.
Call us today or send us an email to find out more information about how your business can get involved, and don’t forget to mention reading our blog! We strive to bring current and relevant information to those that are interested in our program and we look forward to hearing from you!