Joe Manchin III, Governor

Frank Jezioro, Director

News Release : June 7, 2005

Hoy Murphy , Public Information Officer (304) 558-3380 hoymurphy@wvdnr.gov

Contact: Anna Shahan, Environmental Resources Section (304) 558-3370 enviroresources@wvdnr.gov

First Adopt-A-Highway Statewide Mid-summer Cleanup June 25;

Adopt-A-Highway Photo Contest

  Hundreds of Adopt-A-Highway (AAH) volunteers will be participating in the first mid-summer statewide cleanup Saturday, June 25, 2005 , according to Anna Shahan, State Coordinator for the Adopt-A-Highway program.

  “We always have spring and fall statewide cleanups, but this year we're going to have a mid-summer cleanup because that's when we have the most out-of-state visitors and when we want our highways to look their best,” said Shahan.

  Registered Adopt-A-Highway members will be cleaning their assigned areas, but non-members also may clean any public road as a one-time project. All volunteers should make sure they are registered in advance so they can receive garbage bags and safety equipment. To register, call 1-800-322-5530 or e-mail aah@wvdnr.gov , or visit www.wvdnr.gov/wvaah and fill out the online form.

  Department of Highways garages will be open Saturday, June 25 from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. , and registered volunteers may pick up supplies then or the previous Monday through Friday during the same hours. Litter filled bags will be collected and disposed of by DOH workers following the cleanup.

ADOPT-A-HIGHWAY PHOTO CONTEST

  Volunteers who register by Friday, June 20 , will receive up to four one-time use disposable cameras for use during the Adopt-A-Highway photo contest. AAH is looking for pictures of volunteers engaged in roadside litter cleanup activities, especially “action” shots of individuals and groups picking up litter, filling bags, removing tires, etc. Volunteers who are given cameras also will receive post-paid envelopes to send the film off for free developing. Six of the best submissions will be chosen for prizes and winners will be announced at the annual Adopt-A-Highway Appreciation Day picnic, to be held at Cacapon State Park on Saturday, August 6. The first place prize is a three-day stay at a West Virginia state park and a signed and numbered Operation Wildflower print. The second place prize is four tickets to ride the train at Cass Scenic Railroad State Park and a signed and numbered Operation Wildflower print. The third place prize is a WV State Parks Monopoly game and a signed and numbered Operation Wildflower print. Three runners-up will receive a signed and numbered Operation Wildflower print. For rules and entry information, please call 1-800-322-5530 or e-mail aah@wvdhr.gov .

**DNR**