By Scout Nelson
The South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) is again offering its annual pesticide container recycling program in 2025. This free service is available at multiple locations across the state and helps farmers and ranchers safely dispose of used containers.
The program begins on July 7 in Miller and July 8 in Watertown, with the final collection events taking place on September 11 in Rapid City and Wall. A full list of collection dates and sites is available from the DANR.
This program allows for the recycling of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic or steel containers that are 55 gallons or smaller. All containers must be triple rinsed, or pressure rinsed, contain no more than 0.5 fluid ounces of water, and be free of any pesticide residue. In addition, caps and labels must be removed before recycling.
Once collected, the containers are ground into small pieces and sent to a recycling facility. The plastic is reused to make other agricultural products like fence posts. This helps reduce plastic waste in landfills and keeps storage areas cleaner and safer.
This recycling option gives producers a safe and legal way to handle old containers.
The DANR encourages everyone using pesticides to plan ahead and take part in the program. It’s an easy and effective way to help the environment while keeping farms clean and safe.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-fertnig
Categories: South Dakota, General, Government & Policy, Sustainable Agriculture