Adopt-A-Highway
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Adopt-A-Highway Program?
In 1987, the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) started the Adopt-A-Highway program to solicit public involvement in controlling litter along selected sections of state highways. Volunteers participating in the program will pick up litter quarterly along adopted stretches of state highways. The Department will collect and dispose of the trash bags gathered and maintain open communication with adopting organizations.
Who can adopt an Arkansas highway?
Individuals, businesses, and organizations can adopt a section (or sections) of state highway.
Participating Groups Agree To:
- Conduct at least four (4) litter‑pickups each year.
- Pick up trash in the grassy area outside of the shoulder only. No cleanup activities should be performed in the median.
- Place all bagged litter along the outside edge of the shoulder.
- Report each cleanup using the online pick-up report.
- Submit photos from cleanups (optional but encouraged) for ARDOT’s social media and program‑promotion efforts.
- Wear ARDOT‑provided safety vests during all cleanup activities.
- Ensure that safety signage is displayed throughout the entire cleanup event.
- Maintain open communication with ARDOT, including promptly updating all group contact information when necessary.
ARDOT Will:
- Install recognition signage for the adopting organization, including required safety signage.
- Provide trash bags and safety vests to all adopting organizations.
- Collect filled trash bags after each cleanup.
- Keep open communication with adopting groups throughout their participation in the program.
- Renew compliant groups every two (2) years. Groups that maintain a regular pickup schedule and open communication with the Department will be considered compliant.