Programs > Litter Index

The Litter Index is a national program to rank areas on cleanliness, and provides a starting point for communities launching litter-prevention programs. Volunteers spread out and rate certain areas based on the Keep America Beautiful scale: 1 meaning “virtually no litter”, all the way to 4 indicating “major dumpsites”.

The Litter Index takes place every summer. Check our volunteer form starting in June to sign up!

Litter Index Results
2011 Litter Index Report

Litter Facts

• The most common roadside litter is cigarette butts.
• Cigarette butts contain toxins, have been found in the stomachs of wildlife, and take seven years to biodegrade.
• Only plastic bottles can be recycled curbside in the Truckee Meadows. Check our Recycling Guide for places to recycle things like plastic bags and yogurt containers.


Getting Instructions



Signing in the Volunteers