A map recently unveiled by the Arizona Department of Transportation makes it easier to participate in the department's Adopt-a-Highway program.

The interactive map allows those interested in the program to quickly see which segments of the state's highways are available to be adopted. Once an open segment is clicked, the map displays milepost data and contact information for the ADOT representative in charge of that segment.

As of last week, several scenic sections of Arizona's highways were available to be adopted. They included parts of State Route 89A in Oak Creek Canyon, north of Sedona; parts of U.S. Route 163, which runs through the Navajo Nation's Monument Valley; and parts of the North Rim Parkway (State Route 67), which takes travelers to the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park.

Under the volunteer portion of ADOT's Adopt-a-Highway program, a group receives a two-year permit to pick up litter at least once a year, but preferably three or more times per year. Signs with the group's name are posted at the section, and ADOT provides safety vests, litter bags and safety training. More than 700 groups already volunteer, ADOT said in a news release.

Under the sponsor portion of the program, businesses can contract with an approved maintenance provider to remove litter in busier urban areas.

For more information on the Adopt-a-Highway program, visit ADOT's website.