Don't mess with Texas
Campaigns and outreach
Since 1986, the Texas Department of Transportation has educated everyone that Don’t mess with Texas® means don’t litter. Through commercials, partnerships, and trash clean-up efforts, the phrase “Don’t mess with Texas” has significantly helped reduce litter in our state.
Small Trash, Big Mess
Approximately 362 million pieces of visible litter still pile up on Texas roads every year. An estimated 47% of all litter along Texas roads comes from motorists. Beverage containers including water bottles and cans comprise the most litter on our roads.
The Stars of Texas
In 1986, legendary Texas blues guitarist Stevie Ray Vaughan helped launch TxDOT's inaugural "Don't mess with Texas" campaign. Since then, celebrities have reminded Texaans that Don’t mess with Texas means don’t litter.