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WIZS Town Talk host John Charles Rose discussed roadside trash and what he thinks of those that litter on Wednesday’s edition of Town Talk at 11 a.m.
Specifically, Rose mentioned Graham Avenue in Henderson, an area, he said, that is well-kept around the business portion near Ruin Creek Road but has issues with roadside debris and uncut grass just a short distance away.
In a drive through the area recently, Rose said he was dismayed by the litter in a location that serves as a gateway to the city, but was also encouraged by the community service witnessed in a recognized acquaintance.
“Here’s this great man on the side of the road [picking up trash]. Bob Fleming, I saw you out there yesterday. Thanks for what you’re doing. I’m sorry you’ve got to do it. Thanks for being strong for your community.”
Short of changing the mentality of those that litter, Rose said the best solution may be local groups, organizations and individuals working together on litter cleanups through the North Carolina Department of Transportation’s Adopt-A-Highway program.
Established in 1988 in response to growing concern about roadway trash and debris, the NCDOT asks volunteer groups to commit at least four years of volunteer service to a two-mile stretch of roadway. Litter cleanups happen at least four times a year, and sometimes more frequently on heavily-traveled roads.
According to the NCDOT website, Adopt-A-Highway volunteers must be at least 12 years old. Children ages 12-17 must be supervised by an adult who is at least 21.
Participants are provided with safety training, safety vests and trash bags.
To volunteer with Adopt-A-Highway, interested groups should first use the litter management map to determine roadway availability and then request a segment when submitting their application online or by mail.
To hear the interview in its entirety, go to WIZS.com and click on Town Talk.