What are floatables?
Trash and debris that float on the surface of water are considered floatables. They include most plastics, such as bottles, plastic grocery/shopping bags, plastic utensils, polystyrene cups, some aluminum products such as empty cans, used motor oil containers, waxed fast food cups and containers, used diapers, yard wastes, cigarette butts, and many more! Floatables are a form of visual pollution, and can also clog local storm waterways, causing flooding.
Where do they come from?
When it rains, litter is washed off the streets and highways and carried into storm sewers or directly into local streams. Unfortunately, floatables are hard to get rid of. In 2004, over 61,000 cubic yards of litter were collected along Arkansas highways statewide.
How do we get rid of floatables?
They can be reduced through litter control, recycling, and enforcement of existing laws.
How can you help?
Don't litter. Pick up trash you see, cover your truck bed so items won't blow out while driving, and participate in the following programs sponsored by AHTD: