Trucker Takes Initiative on I-90 Clean-Up
KOOTENAI, Idaho — A truck driver known as “Trucker Matt” has taken it upon himself to maintain a clean stretch of Interstate 90 on his daily route, which connects Idaho to Montana and Washington State.
Matthew Culver transports cedar bark from Naples, Idaho, to Superior, Montana. Since retiring from the Marine Corps in 1999, he has been driving trucks and has owned his own trucking business since 2007.
Having driven this route nearly every day for the past four and a half years, Culver joined the Idaho Transportation Department’s (ITD) Adopt-A-Highway program about two years ago. Since then, he has collected almost 100 bags of litter from his designated area of the interstate.
“While my main focus is Fourth of July Summit, I clean in various wide spots where I can safely park. I also tidy up the roadside inspection area at the Idaho Port of Entry in East Hope and occasionally Lookout Pass Summit,” he explained.
Culver’s commitment to cleanliness extends beyond I-90, as he and his wife often collect trash during their hiking and fishing trips. “Matt is always looking for opportunities to positively impact his surroundings,” noted Robin Karsann, ITD’s volunteer services coordinator.
Having served 25 years in the Marine Corps, Culver values cleanliness. “I can’t stand to see trash scattered in beautiful places like Idaho and Montana. It’s rewarding to see a previously littered roadway transformed into a clean space,” he said.
Culver hopes to encourage more people to participate in keeping roads tidy. “I invite others to get involved by reaching out to their local IDT office to sign up. They provide trash bags and safety vests. Not only do I enjoy the exercise and the satisfaction of making a difference, but I’ve also found numerous useful items left behind by truckers. It’s a beneficial experience all around,” he added.
Culver Enterprises is one of the 242 organizations participating in Idaho’s District 1 Adopt-a-Highway program, with several groups committing long-term. “It’s impressive to witness the dedication of our volunteers, some of whom have participated for over 20 years,” Karsann said.
