South Dakota is set to launch a new initiative aimed at recycling pesticide containers and diverting significant amounts of plastic waste from landfills. As the agricultural season progresses and crop protection products are used, this recycling program can make a substantial impact by preventing the disposal of thousands of pounds of plastic each year.
To be eligible for recycling, pesticide containers must meet the following minimum requirements:
1. Thoroughly rinsed or equivalent cleaning procedure.
2. Made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic and have a capacity of 2 1/2 gallons or less.
3. Free of visible pesticide residue inside or outside the container. However, containers previously holding certain substances like crop oil, nutritional spray, adjuvant or surfactant, or Bacillus thuringensis products as the sole active ingredient will still be accepted, even if residue is present.
4. Contain no more than 0. 5 fluid ounces of clear water.
5. Ideally, delivered with labels still intact on the container.
For additional information on pesticide container recycling, individuals can contact the South Dakota Department of Agriculture's Agriculture Services at 605/773-3153.
Funding for the South Dakota Pesticide Container Recycling Program and the Waste Pesticide Program is entirely supported by pesticide registration fees.
The program, in accordance with SDCL 38:20A:54 and ARSD 12:56:18, encompasses a waste pesticide disposal and pesticide container recycling service. Acceptance of containers in the recycling program is determined by factors such as pesticide toxicity, container condition, and the potential for harm to human health or the environment.
The collection of pesticide containers is scheduled for 2023, and the designated collection sites are listed below. It is essential to call ahead before delivering containers, as the hours of operation may vary. Additionally, individuals are required to fill out the Waste Pesticide Registration Form.
Collection Sites:
1. South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources Bait Station
Address: 4075 Airport Road, Pierre, SD 57501
Phone: 605.773.3153
2. Missouri Valley Recycle Center
Address: 840 N Crawford Road, Vermillion, SD 57069
Phone: 605.677.7076
Pesticide containers that meet specific conditions are eligible for recycling, including instances where the label uses have been canceled (e.g., DDT and toxaphene), the product is no longer usable due to caking or settling, or the product is unidentifiable or lacking proper labels, making safe use impossible.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-fertnig
Categories: South Dakota, Crops