Donate your time with us!

The original Adopt-a-Highway program began right here in Texas in 1985. Since then, it’s grown into a nationally and internationally recognized litter-prevention effort, saving taxpayers’ dollars and keeping our rights of way clean.

Pretty cool, huh?


Environmental health is an important part of our community's quality of life. The areas that we hope improve with this program are: outdoor air quality; surface and ground water quality; toxic substances and hazardous wastes; homes and communities; infrastructure and surveillance; and global environmental health!


Still not convinced?


  • Texas is growing by leaps and bounds, and the surging population means more cars on our roadways and, unfortunately, more trash.
  • Although nearly 90 percent of litter on Texas highways is removed by paid contractors...
    volunteer efforts significantly reduce litter cleanup costs and save taxpayers money.
  • It's a free, easy way for groups to help beautify their communities.
  • Motorists respond!!! Seeing volunteers at work resonates with would-be offenders.

 

A short, 8 min. safety video will be required prior to volunteering with us!

We provide: Trash bags, reflective vests.

You will need: Gloves, closed toed shoes.

Recommended: long pants, hats, sun glasses, bug spray, sun screen

RSVP below, Mandatory 8 min online training required!

 

Adopt-a-Highway Safety Tips:

The Adopt-a-Highway program gives Texans an opportunity to volunteer in their communities while enjoying teamwork, exercise and beautiful roadside scenery. Safety is a primary goal for everyone, and because our volunteers are so important to this program, the following are some tips to keep you and your group safe as you clean up Texas roads.

Watch the Safety Video

Proper Attire

  • Volunteers must wear the safety vests provided by TxDOT at all times during the cleanup. (W
  • Volunteers must wear gloves to protect hands from sharp objects. Leather work gloves are suggested. This will protect against the sun and any poisonous plants or insects you might encounter.
  • Only wear closed-toe shoes. Leather shoes or boots with good soles are recommended.
  • Wear light-colored clothing and long pants or jeans. Wear a hat and long sleeves to avoid sunburn.

Highway Safety

  • Assure that traffic control signs are open (or set out in the case of detachable signs) during the cleanup and returned to the closed position (or removed) after cleanup.
  • The Adopt-a-Highway group sign must be mounted before pickups can be performed.
  • Carpool to the pickup site to reduce the number of vehicles in the right of way.
  • Do not stop or park vehicles on roadways.
  • Stay in the right of way. Only cross the roadway when necessary.
  • Groups should keep 5 feet of distance from the pavement edge.
  • Always work facing traffic. Never turn your back to oncoming cars. If you can see an out-of-control vehicle coming your way, it might be possible to avoid danger.
  • All children must be supervised. The suggested ratio is at least one supervisor for every three children under age 15. At least one adult must be present for minors ages 15 to 18. Children under the age of seven (7) may not participate in the program.
  • Never walk on guardrails, and do not lean over bridge railings.
  • Do not pick up items on bridges, in tunnels or on overpasses.
  • Watch your footing. Stay off of/away from steep slopes, trenches or any type of drop-off.
  • Avoid using headsets, which can prevent you from hearing oncoming traffic.
  • Do not enter the roadway or its shoulder areas to pick up trash.

Health Concerns

  • Do not pick up anything that could be hazardous to your health. This includes needles, syringes, jagged glass, animal carcasses, urine bottles or heavy objects. If in doubt, flag the item on the fence line and alert your TxDOT contact to the problem.
  • Adopters are required to have a first-aid kit on hand at all times. It’s suggested that one or two of the volunteers should be familiar with CPR and general first-aid techniques in case of emergency.
  • Know the phone number and the driving route to the nearest hospital. If possible, carry a cell phone.
  • Sunscreen and insect repellent are good to keep on hand.
  • Keep a list of any allergies volunteers have, in case of an emergency.
  • Avoid overexertion. Drink plenty of water. Drinking water should be available to volunteers at all times.

 

Click the links below for additional info:
Safety Tips
Safety Pocket Card
More Info