OKOBOJI, Iowa — A new Adopt-a-Roadside program will soon begin through Dickinson County Conservation.
"I basically saw litter being an issue in the roadsides during work the last few years, and I think this is a good way to get groups of people involved in the environment," said Douglas Todey, Integrated Roadside Vegetation Management program manager with Dickinson County Conservation.
Todey said he has seen everything in county roadsides from cans and bottles to mattresses, microwaves and plastics.
"Being an outdoor-focused county, I think there is a need and want for this program," Todey said. "We don't want litter and garbage to run off into the lakes. We don't want to see garbage floating around our beaches."
Todey is coordinating groups of people who will adopt at least one mile of roadway, including both ditches, to clean up twice per year for a minimum of two years. Those enrolled in the Adopt-a-Roadside program will be supplied gloves, vests, roads signs and bags as well as a safety briefing. After cleaning up the ditches, bags of garbage will be left at the site to be picked up.
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"All the work picking up the litter after the cleanup event is then taken care of by us," Todey said.
There is no minimum or maximum for the number of people needed per group, and all ages are welcome to participate. However, those younger than 16 must have at least one adult supervising per four youths.
Todey's goal is to have 50 miles of roadway adopted in the first year, and groups can sign up at any time by e-mailing him at dtodey@co.dickinson.ia.us .
For more information on Dickinson County Conservation’s IRVM program or the conservation board’s county parks and areas, visit www.dickinsoncountyconservationboard.com or call (712) 336-6352.
