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Adopt-a-Spot Program Rules & Regulations

Adopt-A-Spot Program Rules

The Group shall:

  1. Review and adhere to all safety tips.
  2. Commit to a (1) year period, with an option to renew or revise the project at the option of Adams County. The adopting group must perform at least four cleanups each year.
  3. Execute and deliver to Adams County a Release/Waiver of Liability for all participants/guardians.
  4. The adopting group must notify the Parks, Open Space and Cultural Arts Department at least two weeks prior to a schedule cleanup to ensure trash will be collected by the County staff.
  5. Provide adult supervision for anyone under the age of 18.
  6. Notify Adams County contact(s) in the event of any group leader change/and or change of address within 30 days.
  7. Restrict all activities for the project to the area identified.
  8. Conduct the project activities in a method, manner, and appearance that does not in any way distract, disrupt, or adversely after Park and Trail users.
  9. Restrict the project activities to between the hours of one hour after sunrise and one hour before sunset, and not during inclement weather.
  10. Not display messages, carry banners, or advertise their business affiliation or cause.
  11. Neither possess, consume, or be under the influence of alcohol or drugs while conducting project activities.

The County (through the Parks, Open Space and Cultural Arts Department) shall:

  1. Determine the specific project to be adopted.
  2. After two successful cleanup events, the County will create, install and maintain project signs not to exceed 12” x 18” (if desired by the group) identifying the adopting group.
  3. Provide trash bags or other materials as required for the agreed upon project.
  4. Remove and dispose of filled trash bags or gathered debris.

General Provisions:

The County reserves the right to cancel any project due to failure to meet terms of the Application, or for safety reasons, or when determined to be in the best interest of the County to do so.

Adopt-A-Spot Safety Tips – Do’s and Don’ts

This list is not meant to be an exhaustive list of all the potential dangers you may encounter.

  • Never pick up litter:
  • On construction sites.
  • In fast moving water, on slippery rocks, steep banks or where water runs under roads.
  • In the dark.
  • When the weather is wet, cold, snowing or under dangerous climate conditions.
  • While in the possession of or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  • If you suspect the litter might be hazardous or dangerous.

DO NOT:

  • Pick up or handle dead animals.
  • Overfill trash bags so that they are too heavy or carry a heavy bag long distances; a partially filled bag is fine.
  • Squeeze bags to compact contents. Injuries may result from broken or jagged objects.
  • Overexert yourself – take breaks, drink liquids and dress appropriately for the weather.
  • Bring any pets along on cleanups.
  • Wear earbuds or headphones. Be alert to possible hazards or warnings.

DO:

  • Carpool to cleanup sites to keep the number of vehicles at a minimum.
  • Park off the road as far away from the pavement edge as possible. Use parking lots and wide spots whenever possible.
  • Face oncoming traffic when working near roads.
  • Watch your footing. Be especially careful on steep slopes, trenches, and similar areas.
  • Leave trash bags along the trail so they are visible for pickup. Larger items such as hubcaps, wood, tires, etc., can be piled on top of and next to the bags for pickup.
  • Wear light or brightly colored protective clothing, hard-soled shoes and sturdy work gloves.
  • Use sun block and inspect repellent and wear a hat.
  • Work only during daylight and in fair weather.
  • Drink plenty of fluids on hot days, and rest if you get tired.
  • Stay alert for park and trail users, including cyclists as you work along the trails.
  • Have a first aid kit readily available.
  • Enjoy yourself! Volunteering is a valuable contribution and Adams County is proud to have such involved and dedicated citizens.