Why is there so much trash strewn beside Interstate Highway 26 between Johnson City and Kingsport? This heavily traveled corridor has become an eyesore and presents a unfavorable first impression of our area.

We always marvel at what is found tossed along the side of the interstate. Discarded whiskey bottles, fast food wrappers and pizza boxes show just how thoughtless and lazy a few of us can be. And it only takes a few people to make a big mess.

The city of Johnson City has a crew that regularly picks up garbage left by the side the interstate. Unfortunately, the work keeps piling up. Litterbugs see to that.

Few litterbugs are ever cited for their contemptible behavior. The problem is catching the culprits in the act.

That’s where you can help. If you see someone tossing trash out a car window, take down their license plate number and call the proper authorities.