The Peachtree City Recreation Department has initiated an Adopt-a-Park program that will enable individuals, businesses or civic groups to help keep a selected park or recreational area cleaned up.

The program was started as a result of an idea from the city's quality improvement team, a group of city employees that meets monthly to bring ideas from their respective departments, brainstorm them, and implement those that have merit. In this case, the Recreation Department suggested Adopt-a-Park as a way of recognizing citizens for helping keep city parks free of litter and debris.

“It is an idea that is used in many cities, and works very well,” said leisure services director Randy Gaddo. “We have 12 parks crewmen who care for more than 400 acres of recreation land, more than 40 facilities, more than 40 sports fields, dozens of playgrounds and parks. They do a great job, as anyone can see from looking at our parks, but litter pickup is such a constant task that it is impossible to keep up with it as effectively as we would like.”

Individuals, businesses or groups will receive recognition by means of a sign with their names and the Adopt-a-Park logo posted in the park.

The participant must agree to pick up litter or debris — such as paper, bottles, cans or small branches — at least once a month, and notify the Recreation Department prior to cleaning to ensure it does not conflict with prior park reservations or special events. When notified of a cleanup, the Recreation Department will stage extra trash receptacles.

“We've already had one business adopt Battery Way Park and a home schoolers' group has adopted Pebblepocket Park,” said Gaddo. “This provides an excellent venue for civic clubs, scout groups, businesses or others to participate in a recognized program that demonstrates good citizenship and civic pride.”

Interested parties can phone the Recreation Department at 770-631-2542 for information.

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