The Litter Reduction and Public Action Program has many educational programs dealing with litter abatement, which are made available to the public. Our solution to the litter problem has a three-step approach:

EDUCATION, ENFORCEMENT AND CLEANUPS

Education is a long-term answer. We educate our school children that littering is illegal and teach them the proper way to dispose of  waste. We reach thousands of children each year through:

• promotional material that is provided to teachers, organizations, etc.
• our Kid's Pledge Program, which consist of a video and pledge cards for the children
• participating in teacher workshops, conferences and other activities throughout the year 
• making presentations at schools, boating events, Earth Day, festivals, etc. when requested

Enforcement is necessary to teach our adult citizens that littering is illegal. Louisiana has excellent litter laws on the books. Regulatory signs are being installed which reflect the revised litter statute, which provides for up to $5000.00 fine for repeat offenders plus community service. Law enforcement officials are currently using this law to issue citations to litter offenders. Citizens may report litterers by calling 1-888-LITRBUG; 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.The hotline is being maintained by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. Cingular Wireless customers in the south Louisiana area may call *LITTER. The offender will receive a letter from DEQ reminding them that littering is illegal and asking for their help in keeping Louisiana clean.

Cleanups are sponsored during the year in conjunction with other organizations. Our two major cleanups are The Great American Cleanup sponsored by Keep America Beautiful, Inc., is held during the months of March through May and also the Beach Sweep and Inland Waterway Cleanup in conjunction with The Ocean Conservancy, is currently scheduled for the third Saturday in September. For more information regarding the Great American Cleanup please contact Karen Fisher-Brasher at (225) 219-3265 or email karen.fisher@la.gov.  In recognition of the seriousness of the problem we have recently joined with other state agencies, local government, industry, and concerned citizens to develop a statewide litter plan. The three aspects of litter: EDUCATION, ENFORCEMENT, AND CLEANUPS, will be approached in this statewide litter plan.

Litter awareness is a continued effort on the part of the state, local governments, and the citizens of Louisiana. We are here to help our citizens clean up their communities and help Keep Louisiana Beautiful.