MONROE, N.C. — Trash along North Carolina’s highways is costing the state millions of dollars to clean up.

In 2022, the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) spent more than $22 million to pick up about 11.5 million pounds of litter. It’s down a bit from a record 13 million pounds that was picked up in 2021.

From Sept. 16 to 30, the department is holding a Fall Litter Sweep, a two-week event that encourages people to help keep their communities clean.

Mike Winchester is part of the Litter Busters of Union County. He helped start the community group with his neighbor, Loretta Melancon, about seven years ago after noticing a litter problem along the highway near their subdivisions in Monroe.

“Both my parents are from Union County, so I’ve spent a tremendous amount of time here growing up, and I know what the beauty of the county should look like,” Winchester said. “And what I can do to hopefully get it back to that natural beauty.”

Winchester is one of many volunteers taking part in the NCDOT’s Fall Litter Sweep event.

The state transportation department will provide supplies such as trash bags, gloves and safety vests.

“It can be done individually…as a community…with your friends…neighbors…or church group,” Winchester said. “It’s not a matter of headcount, it’s a matter of getting out there and getting it done.”

Over the years, volunteers with the Litter Busters of Union County have picked up about 2,000 bags of trash. Winchester says they’ve inspired other communities to form their own cleanup groups.

“Union County, like most areas around Charlotte, are growing exponentially,” Winchester said. “So, consequently, we’ve got to be sure we get out there, get these new neighborhoods involved in [litter pick-up], and get their sense of pride as elevated as ours.”

Anyone wanting to volunteer should contact their local litter management coordinator.