RALEIGH --  Volunteers from across the state will join forces with the N.C. Department of Transportation starting on Sept. 17 to kick off the annual fall Litter Sweep campaign. The program brings together Adopt-A-Highway groups, local businesses, civic organizations and others to beautify their communities by removing litter from the state's roadways.

“We are thankful for the effort our Adopt-A-Highway partners and other volunteers put into this campaign,” said Mike Causey, coordinator for the state’s Adopt-A-Highway program. “They make an incredibly positive impact on North Carolina’s roadsides and communities.”

Last year’s fall Litter Sweep resulted in the removal of nearly 850,000 pounds of litter from roads and highways, enough to fill 60,000 trash bags. Of that total, more of 34,000 pounds consisted of glass, metal, plastic and paper that was able to be recycled.

To join the Litter Sweep effort, visit www.ncdot.gov/~littersweep or call 1-800-331-5864. The campaign ends on Oct. 1.

Following this year’s campaign, the Department of Public Safety will launch the “Litter Free NC” enforcement initiative on Oct. 5.

“We hope the combination of cleanup and enforcement will help raise awareness about littering across the state,” continued Causey.

Information about Adopt-A-Highway can be found on the program website at ncdot.gov. Questions regarding applications for Adopt-A-Highway and the sections of roadway available for adoption can be directed to your local county coordinator or by calling 919-707-2956.