WISCONSIN – With a record number of volunteers taking part in the Adopt-A-Highway cleanup program, the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) is reminding drivers to stay alert, slow down when approaching roadside work and move over when possible to help keep volunteers safe.
“Each year, Wisconsinites generously volunteer to pick up other people’s trash and recyclables along the roadside,” said WisDOT Secretary Kristina Boardman. “We’re proud of how Wisconsin’s Adopt-A-Highway program has grown over the years, with nearly 18,000 volunteers currently helping keep Wisconsin beautiful. We simply ask Wisconsinites and visitors to do their part by properly disposing trash and watching out for these volunteers along the roadsides.”
In 2025, Adopt-A-Highway groups collected more than 170 tons of trash and recyclables, according to a release from WisDOT.
“The Adopt-A-Highway program continues to flourish with over 3,100 groups and a total of more than 6,000 volunteer hours were reported last year,” WisDOT stated. “Despite the record participation, about 2,700 miles of state highway are still available for adoption, so check the interactive map (www.tinyurl.com/45v4crrt) and get involved today.”
Adopt-A-Highway workers are asked to clean up their assigned two-mile state highway segment at least three times per year. All volunteers must be at least 11 years of age or in the 6th grade on two-lane highways and 16 years of age on four-lane highways. No other persons should be on the work site. Each group must provide one adult supervisor for every five or six volunteers.
Automated forms on the Adopt-A-Highway website streamline reporting cleanup efforts. County highway crews gather the bagged materials for proper disposal. As part of the program, WisDOT furnishes safety vests, highway worker signs, a safety training video, trash bags and two permanent signs identifying the group. Groups do not work in dangerous areas like medians, bridges or steep slopes.
WisDOT initiated the Adopt-A-Highway program in 1991 to allow groups to volunteer and directly support the state’s anti-litter program.
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