Drivers are asked to use extra caution this weekend, as 4-H club members begin their annual clean up campaign on Manitoba’s highways and roads. This announcement was made by Agriculture Minister Ralph Eichler and Infrastructure Minister Blaine Pedersen.
“We are proud to partner with 4-H clubs across Manitoba in this annual campaign, which has resulted in tidier roadways and a more beautiful landscape for 30 years,” said Eichler.
The provincewide campaign will take place Saturday, May 28, weather permitting. All work areas are supervised by adult volunteers and marked with safety signs. All 4-H participants will be wearing a safety vest and cleanup takes place only between the hours of 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. to help ensure they are more easily visible to motorists. Manitobans are asked to be alert and use caution when passing 4-H highway clean up crews.
“Manitoba’s future leaders are learning about civic pride and community responsibility in this campaign,” said Pedersen. “To help keep everyone safe, I encourage all motorists, cyclists and ATV drivers to look for signs and drive cautiously around 4-H clubs while they’re working.”
The Manitoba government pays 4-H clubs for every kilometre of roadway cleaned. Last year, 425 kilometres of roadsides and ditches were cleaned and 1,995 bags of trash were collected. Recyclable bottles and cans were also delivered to appropriate pickup locations. The participating clubs earned more than $11,900 to support their programs.
“Twenty-eight 4-H clubs are going to be participating in this year’s campaign,” said Clayton Robins, executive director, Manitoba 4-H Council. “This joint project raises funds for 4-H clubs, teaches 4-H members the value of environmental consciousness, and recycling and assists with spring cleanup.”
In case of rain, the alternate date for the clean-up campaign is June 4.
