MnDOT Adopt a Highway has been around in Minnesota for over 30 years now. Groups of volunteers adopt a 2 mile stretch along a highway where they are responsible for picking up trash. It is a perfect opportunity for groups looking to bond or give back to the community. The program promotes a clean environment, individual pride, less use of tax-payers money and an important reminder not to litter.

Last year MNDOT reported more than 3,800 volunteer groups participate annually in Adopt a Highway, and last weekend was our group's turn. Northstar Bus Lines and American Student Transportation have participated in Adopt a Highway for a number of years. After missing a year due to the pandemic, this past weekend was the best turnout our group has seen so far. In a span of three hours we collected over 50 bags of trash along Highway 81 in Maple Grove.

Previously mentioned the participation was phenomenal. We had over 30 drivers, and their families join with ages ranging from 4 to 50+. These dedicated individuals were on the road at 8am on a Saturday. We knew we had to make it fun!

We split into four groups and took the school bus to our destination. Everyone was told to pay attention to the trash they were collecting because prizes would be given out at the end. That's when trash became treasure. We found wallets, money, cellphones, clothing, usable car parts and more. One of our drivers who is musically inclined even found some old sheetwork for music. It made for a fun video when he performed.

While we picked up trash, several cars along the way honked and gave a thumbs up. There was not a pedestrian who did not thank us for what we were doing. After being rewarded with a great lunch, we were given prizes such as, being the youngest helper, or finding the most disgusting or most unique piece of trash. Several employees mentioned that their children wanted to come back next weekend and volunteer again. Between helping the environment, feeling pride and bonding with family and friends it was rewarding to help the community.