Programs > Litter Index

Assigning Teams

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

    Getting Instructions

    Signing in the Volunteers

    Signing in the Volunteers