(a) It is the intent of the general assembly to encourage business groups, civic organizations, garden clubs, and individuals to assist, on a volunteer basis, in planting and maintaining Tennessee native wildflowers, other native plants, and other plants along the highway system and at appropriate interchanges that are heavily traveled.
(b) The commissioner of transportation may enter into formal agreements with business groups, civic organizations, garden clubs, and individuals for volunteer services to assist, on a volunteer basis, in planting and maintaining Tennessee native wildflowers, other native plants, and other plants along the highway system in accordance with plans devised by the commissioner after consultation with the volunteers.
(c) The commissioner may direct that appropriate signs be erected to recognize and express appreciation to a provider of volunteer services.