Extension Notes: Pesticide Container Rinse & Return Program

By: Rebecca Konopka
Carter County Extension Agent

The Kentucky Department of Agriculture (KDA) helps safeguard the state’s natural resources through an initiative aimed at reducing pesticide container waste. The Rinse and Return program helps farmers and agricultural businesses to properly dispose of empty pesticide containers, preventing them from ending up in landfills or polluting waterways.

The program is sponsored by KDA and the Agri-Business Association of Kentucky (ABAK).  Farmers who wish to participate in the program need to triple rinse pesticide containers before bringing them to designated collection points. Containers also need to be punctured and have the label removed.  These containers can then be recycled into other products, minimizing their environmental impact.  Since its inception in 1991, the Rinse and Return program has recycled over 1.8 million pounds of pesticide containers.  

Pesticide containers can be dropped off at Kee’s Farm Service between 10:00-12:00 on Monday, August 19^th.   Additional drop off locations and times can be found at https://tinyurl.com/wd8zp2au.    

The program not only benefits the environment but also offers farmers a convenient and responsible way to dispose of pesticide containers. By participating, farmers help create a healthier Kentucky for everyone.

For more information contact the Carter County office of the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service. Educational programs of the Cooperative Extension Service serve all people regardless of economic or social status and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnic origin, national origin, creed, religion, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expressions, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information, age, veteran status, or physical or mental disability.     

Upcoming Events: 

• The Grayson Farmer’s Market is open on Saturdays from 9:00 AM until noon and on Thursdays from 2:00 until sell out.  The market is located in the shed behind the Extension Office.   The Olive Hill Farmer’s Market is located in the Save-a-Lot parking lot and is open on Saturdays and Wednesdays at 8:00 AM and Mondays at 3:00 PM until sell out each day. There will be a pop-up market on the first Tuesday of the month in the Friendship & Chapel House parking lot from 6:00-8:00 PM.  
• Check out the Carter County Fair Exhibit Hall from 6:00-8:00 on Wednesday-Friday this week at the fair.  
• Ag Advancement Council Meeting – Monday, August 12^th @ 6:00 PM 
• Carter County Extension Council & District Board Meetings – Tuesday, August 13^th @ 10:00 AM – The District Board will meet immediately following the conclusion of the CEC meeting.  

Gardening in Small Spaces Garden Tour – Tuesday, August 20^th @ 6:00 PM at Eddie & Angie Fultz’s