Trash Bash ends as PCF crew removes 2,500 bags of refuse

Offender workers from the Putnamville Correctional Facility police the grounds along the Interstate 70 roadway as part of the 2014 Trash Bash.

PUTNAMVILLE -- Annually the Putnamville Correctional Facility (PCF), as well as other state facilities, partners with the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) to assist in cleaning up trash and debris along Indiana's state highways.

From April 5 through April 27 this year the Putnamville team of offender workers covered approximately 31.2 miles and removed 2,517 bags of trash from the sides of area roadways.

"The Department of Correction strives to rehabilitate offenders in many ways and cleaning up Hoosier highways is one program that allows them to give back to the community and turn doing time into doing good," Indiana Department of Correction Commissioner Bruce Lemmon said. "Partnering with INDOT in its Annual Trash Bash and helping brighten up our great state is one of our agency's favorite activities."

PCF Superintendent Stanley Knight agreed.

"We value our partnerships with outside agencies and enjoy assisting in making our great state beautiful," Knight said.

INDOT encourages all Hoosiers to keep Indiana's highways clean by following some simple tips:

Don't litter: Set a good example for everyone, especially children.

Be responsible: Carry a litter bag in your car instead of tossing trash out the window.

Report it: Report areas where people have illegally dumped garbage to your local transportation, public works or conservation office.

Adopt it: To find out how your group can become involved in helping beautify an area near you by participating in Adopt-A-Highway, Sponsor-A-Highway or other highway beautification efforts may contact the INDOT Customer Service Department at 1-800-279-5758.