GROUPS LIKE YOURS ARE STEPPING UP
A cleaner Texas doesn’t happen by accident. It happens because of everyday Texans.
From bike clubs to book clubs, Junior Leagues to little leagues, and Fortune 500s to 501(c)(3)s, thousands of Texans are volunteering to adopt a 2-mile stretch of Texas highway and pick up litter. It’s a simple way to make a real impact together and keep our scenic routes scenic.
We’ve created a Get Started Kit with everything your group needs to plan your first pickup. Inside, you’ll find a quick-start guide with steps to apply, a bilingual poster to help spread the word, and a safety checklist to keep your crew prepared and informed on site.
All materials are available as downloadable, printable files – easy to use at home, at work, or wherever your group gathers.
A Movement Born in Texas: 40 Years of Adopt-a-Highway
When the Tyler Civitan Club adopted a two-mile stretch of U.S. Highway 69 in 1985, its members likely didn’t know they’d be the inaugural volunteers for the Adopt-a-Highway program that would grow into a global movement for environmental stewardship and community pride. Sparked by the Tyler Civitan Club’s enthusiasm, many other groups joined the program and blanketed the state. Today, we can proudly say that for over 40 years, thousands of volunteers throughout the state have played a vital role in keeping Texas highways clean, safe, and beautiful.
The program has made a profound difference on our state by encouraging individuals, organizations, and businesses to take responsibility for keeping sections of highways litter-free and fostering civic engagement and environmental consciousness.
- Environmental Impact
Over four decades, millions of pounds of litter have been removed, helping to preserve natural landscapes, protect wildlife, and improve highway safety.
- Community Involvement
The program strengthens community bonds by involving local volunteers, promoting teamwork, and instilling a sense of responsibility for public spaces. Many participants say a highlight of their Adopt-a-Highway volunteer experience is the camaraderie with like-minded Texans. - Global Influence
What started as a Texas initiative has inspired similar programs worldwide, showcasing how small, local actions can have a global ripple effect. Today, Adopt-a-Highway is a grassroots movement involving nearly 90,000 groups in 49 states, Puerto Rico, Canada, New Zealand, Australia, and Japan. - Economic Benefits
Texas spends $48 million in taxpayer dollars to pick up litter every year. Reducing roadside litter saves taxpayer money by decreasing highway maintenance costs and enhances tourism by keeping highways clean and scenic.
- Educational Outreach
The program raises public awareness about the importance of litter prevention and environmental sustainability, influencing future generations by changing audience behaviors to prevent litter in the future.
We’re proud of the Adopt-a-Highway program’s 40+ year legacy and hope to inspire continued commitment to environmental stewardship for many more years to come.
