Adopting a section of Virginia highway is FREE and EASY!
Virginia Department of Transportation established the Adopt-a-Highway program in 1988, and each year, nearly 18,000 Adopt-a-Highway volunteers collect more than 25,000 bags of waste along Virginia’s highways. It is estimated that these efforts save the commonwealth over $1.35 million that would have otherwise gone to clean up Virginia’s roads. Groups of all kinds agree to adopt a two mile stretch of highway in their community by picking up litter and recyclables at least twice a year for three years. In return, VDOT provides trash bags, vests, important safety information and highway signs that recognize the individual or group.
The Adopt-a-Highway program has sparked many related programs, including Adopt-a-Spot, Adopt-a-Street, Adopt-a-Trail, Adopt-a-Drain and Adopt-a-Stream. It’s easy to search your area for these programs or we are happy to help get you connected!
To apply:
- Contact your Adopt-a-Highway coordinator, call 1-800-FOR-ROAD (1-800-367-7623) or send an e-mail to [email protected].
- Review the general conditions and safety guidelines.
- Complete an application and email or mail it to your local coordinator or to VDOT Adopt-a-Highway, 1401 E. Broad St., Richmond, Virginia, 23219.
Already a permit holder and have a question or suggestion? Email us here.
ADOPT-A-HIGHWAY RESOURCES
- Apply to Adopt-a-Highway
- VDOT – AAH site
- AAH Coordinator List
- Report a Pick-up
- Safety Guidelines & Video
REPORTING – WHY IT IS SO IMPORTANT
Reporting is the only way VDOT knows you are fulfilling your AAH commitment.
Your recorded reports insures your sign stays in place for all to admire.
VDOT relies on the data collected from the program to work with the Department of Environmental Quality on stormwater runoff issues, resulting in cleaner waterways and safer, healthier wildlife.
By reporting numbers such as volunteers, hours spent, and bags of trash, we can better understand and work to solve the litter problem in our beautiful state.
In the case of more regular picking up, please just estimate for the month or even quarter so we can keep track of smaller, more frequent activity.
AS ALWAYS, THANK YOU FOR SERVICE!
BE A SPORT AND SEND IN A REPORT! THERE ARE FOUR EASY WAYS:
- Online or from your mobile device at virginiadot.org/programs/prog-aah-report.asp
- By email to your local coordinator
- By phone at 1-800-FOR-ROAD or your local coordinator
- By USPS to your local coordinator
