7,027 Arkansans contributed over 56,000 hours towards the statewide cleanup initiative
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — The Keep Arkansas Beautiful Commission (KAB) announced today that all 75 Arkansas counties registered cleanups during KAB’s 2023 Great Arkansas Cleanup (GAC) challenge, marking the second consecutive year that the campaign received participation from the entire state. From September 1 through October 31, 7,027 Arkansans volunteered during the GAC, collecting 199 tons of litter in their communities.
"We're immensely proud of the incredible dedication shown by Arkansans during this year’s Great Arkansas Cleanup,” said Colbie Jones, director of KAB. “This year's results underscore the passion and commitment of our communities toward preserving the natural beauty of our state. The collaborative effort and enthusiasm displayed by volunteers reflect our shared commitment to a cleaner, more beautiful Arkansas."
During KAB’s annual fall cleanup initiative, thousands of Arkansans volunteer to improve their communities by removing litter and debris from Arkansas’ roadways, shorelines, parks and other public areas. This year, there were 246 cleanup events hosted across all 75 Arkansas counties.
"The success of the 2023 Great Arkansas Cleanup is a testament to the pride and dedication of volunteers across our state,” said Robyn Taylor, volunteer program manager at KAB. “These results display what collective responsibility can accomplish, and should inspire us all to foster a continued sense of ownership in preserving the beauty of Arkansas."
Volunteers removed 120 tons of bulky waste across 1,002 miles of roads, 204 miles of waterways and shorelines and 377,692 acres of parks and public areas. Volunteers collected 2,580 tires and 126 tons of recyclables, while also focusing on beautification efforts by planting 426 trees and 142 plants, shrubs, flowers and bulbs.
KAB is encouraging Arkansans to continue beautifying their communities throughout the year. To learn more about KAB’s upcoming cleanup initiatives or ways to get involved in your community, click here.
Keep Arkansas Beautiful
The Keep Arkansas Beautiful Commission (KAB) consists of a professional staff of three and a nine-member advisory board appointed by the governor. KAB is a part of Arkansas State Parks, a division of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism. KAB is a certified state affiliate of Keep America Beautiful Inc. and inspires and educates individuals to reduce litter, recycle and keep Arkansas beautiful. KAB is funded by the Amendment 75 1/8-cent Conservation Tax. For more information, visit KeepArkansasBeautiful.com. Stay in the know by following Keep Arkansas Beautiful on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube and texting VOLUNTEER to (501) 287-3596.
Arkansas State Parks
Arkansas State Parks is a division of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism. Arkansas state parks and museums cover 55,006 acres of forest, wetlands, fish and wildlife habitat, outdoor recreation facilities, and unique historic and cultural resources. Established in 1923, Arkansas State Parks preserve special places for future generations, provide quality recreation and education opportunities, enhance the state’s economy through tourism and provide leadership in resource conservation. Connect with ASP on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, and visit ArkansasStateParks.com and ArkansasStateParks.com/media to learn more.
Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism
The Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism protects and promotes our state’s natural, cultural and historic assets, contributing to a thriving economy and high quality of life. It is made up of three divisions: Arkansas State Parks, Arkansas Heritage and Arkansas Tourism. Shea Lewis serves as the secretary for the department.
