About the Adopt-A-Highway Program
NDOT proudly sponsors the Adopt-A-Highway program, giving community groups the opportunity to keep Nebraska’s roadsides clean, safe, and welcoming. The program began in Texas in 1985 and quickly became a model for other states and countries. Nebraska officially launched its program in April 1990, thanks to the efforts of former state senator Emil Beyer.
Since its launch, the program has grown to cover nearly one-quarter of Nebraska’s 10,000 miles of highways, with more than 800 groups actively maintaining sections of state roads. Through NDOT’s support, volunteers receive all the supplies and guidance needed, including nameplate signs, litter bags, traffic signs, safety vests, and trash disposal services—making it safe and easy for groups to make a real difference.
Participation in the Adopt-A-Highway program is a meaningful way for schools, businesses, civic organizations, and families to show pride in their community, enjoy teamwork, and help keep Nebraska beautiful. Many groups also choose to adopt a roadside section in memory of a loved one, whether lost in an accident or to natural causes. “In Memoriam” adoptions provide a safe and lasting way to honor someone without placing flowers or crosses on the right-of-way, which can create hazards for maintenance crews.
Guidelines for Participation
- Sponsors must be nonprofit.
- Sponsor will be expected to perform at least two trash pickups on their adopted segment per year, for a minimum of two years (renewable). Sections are a minimum of two miles and a maximum of six and must be along a state-maintained highway.
- Sponsors must notify NDOT at least 48 hours before performing cleanup to ensure enough time to collect supplies and make sure there will not be any work in that area that might interfere with the adoption or cause extra distractions for road users.
- Sponsors must be professional and adhere to our safety guidelines, hold a pre-cleanup safety meeting, use high-visibility vests and proper footwear, and ensure adult supervision for volunteers under 15.
How to Apply
1. Find your stretch of highway! Explore the map below to see available highway sections for adoption. Zoom in or click on a section to view details such as reference post numbers. Sections highlighted in green are currently available.
2. Fill out the Adopt-A-Highway application.
3. Email your application to the district contact below for the county you want to adopt. NDOT has 8 districts, find yours here. You may also contact the AAH program administrator at 402-479-4542.
4. Once your application is processed, the DOT will install a sign along your adopted section, crediting your name, family, or organization.
Roadside Cleanup Tips
What to Wear: Safety vest, sturdy shoes, gloves, long pants, and preferably long sleeves.
Safety : Park off the highway if possible. Face oncoming traffic and stay at least 10 feet from the pavement. Avoid approaching traffic and never move hazardous items—report them to your Adopt-A-Highway representative.
Timing & Duration: Start after sunrise and finish before sunset. A 2-mile stretch may take several hours, especially if it hasn’t been cleaned recently. Bring water and monitor weather; stop if conditions become unsafe.
Trash & Recycling: Pile collected trash by your adoption sign or agreed location; NDOT will dispose of it. Sponsors may keep recyclables or other found items if desired.
District 1 - Vicki Simon
District 2 - Natalie Clark
District 3 - Heidi Brenneman
District 4 - Lisa Anderson
District 5 - Mindy Whiteley or Brandy Robinson
District 6 - Lisa Stadler
District 7 - Maggie Repass
District 8 - Susan Hoover
The Great Nebraska Trash-Off
The Great Nebraska Trash-Off is an annual cleanup event, typically held from April through May. During this event, groups compete, collaborate, and showcase their commitment to Nebraska’s roadsides—while having fun and generating positive publicity for themselves and the program.
