Jason Futch
reporter2.riverbendnews@gmail.com
Keeping the roads clean throughout Suwannee County can be a challenging task. Hundreds of miles of roads lead to rivers and streams, while others lead residents and visitors alike into other counties. Some of the streets have protected wildflower areas, which the Florida Department of Transportation keeps up to preserve the natural flowers that grow in the region.
Although there is a responsibility to keep the streets clean, help is minimal. Littering leads to trash accumulating on the side of the roads, sometimes taking months for the county to clean. A new group in Suwannee County is looking to change the narrative on roadside cleanup, which will add to the needed help that the county welcomes.
Andrew Weaver, who grew up in Live Oak, realized that there was a need for trash pickup on the local roads. Weaver’s motivation was inspired by his experience with the Boy Scouts of America’s participation in the Florida Department of Transportation’s “Adopt-a-Highway” program. As a Boy Scout, Weaver and his troop would visit the troop’s adopted road several times a year to remove litter. “There were several hundred pounds of litter we would remove throughout the year,” Weaver said.
In December of 2024, Weaver founded Keep Suwannee County Beautiful (KSCB), a nonprofit dedicated to improving the condition of local roadsides and the county’s environment. “Our community and environment deserve better,” Weaver said. “It’s about more than just picking up trash; it’s about having a sense of pride and ownership in our community.”
KSCB’s mission is “to enhance the beauty and health of Suwannee County by organizing cleanup efforts across local roadways, waterways, parks, schools and attractions.”
The organization’s greatest need is for volunteers to participate in regular cleanup events. Details about upcoming cleanups are posted on KSCB’s social media page and local newspapers. “I believe that by working together, we can make a bigger impact,” Weaver said.
KSCB’s members look forward to fulfilling this mission by getting their hands dirty through organizing regular cleanups, partnering with local schools, and working with businesses, churches and other organizations to build a strong network of volunteers, inspiring everyone to join them in taking care of the place that Suwannee Countians love.
To join KSCB’s volunteer group, visit www.facebook.com/groups/kscbvolunteers. The group is also seeking board members to join the organization. Individuals who would like to become a board member are encouraged to scan the QR code accompanying this article.