BAXTER, Minn. - As MnDOT crews prepare for the upcoming snow and ice season, thousands of Adopt a Highway volunteers across Minnesota are taking a rest from their efforts to clean up the area highways and saving taxpayers litter removal costs.

"The Minnesota Department of Transportation thanks the dedicated volunteers and their organizations who participate in the Adopt a
Highway program," said Bob Busch, MnDOT District 3 Engineer. "Their collective efforts benefit our state by keeping our roadsides attractive and giving visitors a positive impression as they travel our highways."

In central Minnesota, there are approximately 713 active community organizations cleaning more than 1,600 miles along state highways
throughout Aitkin, Benton, Cass, Crow Wing, Isanti, Kanabec, Morrison, Sherburne, Stearns, Todd, Wadena and Wright counties. The program began in 1990 with 71 groups.

Adopt a Highway community organizations agree to:

Volunteers are provided safety information, safety vests and trash bags. MnDOT maintenance staff picks up filled trash bags from the roadsides and removes large, heavy or hazardous items.

To participate in the MnDOT's Adopt a Highway program, log onto http://www.dot.state.mn.us/adopt or call a MnDOT district office. In
central Minnesota, there are offices in Baxter at 218/828-5700 or toll free 800/657-3971 and ask for Mary Nieken; or in St. Cloud at 320/223-6500 or toll free 800/657-3961 and talk to Cindy Senger.

For updated statewide traffic, construction, weather and travel information, visit www.511mn.org.