Volunteers will soon take to Alberta’s highways to clean up the mess that starts to show once the snow has thawed.
Drivers are asked to be aware and recognize these volunteers are in a vulnerable position that close to speeding traffic. They will be wearing safety vests picking up the garbage, earning money for community organizations.
Last year, the provincial government contributed $904,070 to 618 volunteer organizations that helped clean up more than 10,500 km of roadways.
Organizations can earn between $55 and $100 per kilometre cleaned, with the higher amounts given to the messiest, those closest to urban centres. Volunteers must be at least nine-years-old, attend a safety training program and be under adult supervision.
Regular groups who participate include 4-H clubs, Scouts, Girl Guides, Rotary clubs, sports teams and various non-profit groups. Groups must be registered with the province as a non-profit organization to participate.