The Atlantic County Clean Communities Program, administered by the Atlantic County Utilities Authority (ACUA), is thrilled to announce the winners of its 2024 Fall Litter Challenge.
First Place was a tie, and awarded to Able Acres Farm and Patricia Fottrell, Second Place to Our Lady Star of the Sea School, and Third Place to Creative Gardeners.
The Fall Litter Challenge, held from October 4 to 20, encouraged teams to collect as much litter as possible over a two-week period. This year, participants collected an impressive 118 bags of trash and 61 bags of recycling, making a significant impact on local roads and communities. The top teams will receive mini grants of $500, $300, and $100, respectively, in recognition of their dedication and hard work.
“Litter is hazardous to the well-being of Atlantic County residents, visitors, and wildlife,” said Rebecca Turygan, Atlantic County Clean Communities Coordinator. “With 105 volunteers participating in cleanups, the Fall Litter Challenge saw fantastic engagement this year. We want to thank everyone for their commitment to making a difference.”
In addition to regular trash and recyclables, teams uncovered unusual items, including tires, a mop, a Magic 8-Ball, and even box springs. A special $100 award was presented for the “Strangest Find,” which went to the U.S. Submarine Vets for discovering a crab trap.
Since ACUA took over administration of the program in 2005, community support has been strong, with 60 percent of Atlantic County roadways adopted. In 2023 alone, the program hosted 368 cleanups, resulting in the removal of 1,752 bags of litter and recyclables across 464 miles of roadway.
For more information on the Atlantic County Clean Communities Program, please visit http://acua.com/adoptaroad/.
