By Scout Nelson
Project Safe Send is returning this July with twelve pesticide collection events across North Dakota. Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring encourages farmers, ranchers, pesticide dealers, government agencies, and homeowners to participate and safely dispose of unused or banned pesticides.
This state-run initiative, now in its 33rd year, has already collected over 6.4 million pounds of hazardous pesticides. The program accepts herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, and rodenticides that are outdated, banned, or unusable. It is a free, safe, and non-regulatory solution funded by registration fees paid by pesticide manufacturers.
“Check your storage areas for any unusable pesticides and safely set them aside for Project Safe Send,” said Goehring. “If the containers are deteriorating or leaking, pack them in larger containers with absorbent materials. Free heavy-duty plastic bags are available from the North Dakota Department of Agriculture if needed.”
Participants do not need to pre-register unless they are bringing over 1,000 pounds of material. There is a maximum limit of 5,000 pounds per participant, and each participant is allowed one shuttle. Pesticide distributors and agronomy centers can bring up to 3,000 pounds and one shuttle but must pre-register if bringing the maximum allowed.
Events will be held from 8 a.m. to noon at designated North Dakota Department of Transportation facilities. This annual collection helps promote public safety, protect the environment, and maintain clean storage practices.
To pre-register or request plastic bags, contact Lilliann Johnston at 701-328-2980 or email lfjohnston@nd.gov.
This is a great opportunity for North Dakota residents to clean up storage spaces and contribute to a safer environment.
Photo Credit: istock-fotokostic
Categories: North Dakota, Business, Crops, Corn, Soybeans