How the Program Works
The Arkansas Department of Agriculture partners with several key organizations to implement the program, including:
- University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service
- Arkansas Farm Bureau
- Arkansas Division of Environmental Quality
- Local county governments
Each year, the Department selects up to ten counties to host collection events, aiming to eventually hold at least one event in every Arkansas county. County selection prioritizes watersheds and areas with high agricultural pesticide use.
Participation and Funding
- Participation is free and anonymous for farmers and non-industrial landowners.
- Collections are funded by pesticide manufacturers through a small fee included in the registration of agricultural pesticides in Arkansas.
- The number of collections each year depends on available program funding.
How to Participate
Participants are encouraged to complete and submit an inventory form before the collection event. This helps the Department confirm the types and quantities of pesticides that can be accepted.
Forms and Resources
- FORECASTED ABANDONED PESTICIDE COLLECTION EVENTS
- Agricultural Pesticide Disposal Program Inventory Form (Online)
- Inventory Form (Printable)
- Pesticide Disposal Informational Flyer
- Safely Transport Pesticide Waste Flyer
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can participate in the program?
This program is meant for farmers who have old or unwanted agricultural pesticides. We are specifically targeting pesticides that are no longer being manufactured and pesticides that are no longer labeled for use. Traditionally farmers may have bought some of these pesticides in bulk to save money. This potentially lead to some farmers having these older pesticides stockpiled and looking for a way to dispose of these unwanted pesticides.
When are you coming to my county?
The program has serviced all 75 counties and will continue a statewide rotation as funding permits.
Will you take oil, gas, paint or other home products?
No. The Arkansas Abandoned Agricultural Pesticide Program is designed for agricultural pesticides only.
There is not a label on my pesticide container. Will you still take it?
Yes. We are able to take agricultural pesticides even if the label is no longer readable or present. Before disposal each pesticide is tested to determine the EPA approved proper disposal technique. This allows us to accept agricultural pesticides even without the label.
Is there any cost associated with participating in this program?
No. There is no cost for those participating in the program. This program is designed as a service to help farmers dispose of unwanted pesticides without the cost often associated with pesticide disposal.
What happens to the pesticides after the collection events?
The pesticides are taken to the hazardous waste contractor’s facility. At the facility they test, sort, and destroy the pesticides in accordance with EPA regulations for each product they identify.