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How To

How to Dispose of Crop Dusting Chemicals

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(3 Ratings)

It wasn't long after the first airplane took flight that farmers recognized the potential for distributing large amounts of pesticides over their fields from the air. But as beneficial as the chemicals are to crop yields, they are still dangerous and must be handled with care to avoid injury or health problems. It's important to properly dispose of crop-dusting chemicals.

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Load only what you need. Modern technology makes it easy to determine exactly how pesticide is needed for the area to be crop-dusted. Putting only that amount in the tank before spraying means less waste and less need to dispose of leftover crop-dusting chemicals.

  2. Step 2

    Follow label directions. Manufacturers of chemicals used in crop-dusting always include specific information about proper use. Also consult the material safety data sheets (MSDS) for details on how to dispose of chemical products.

  3. Step 3

    Triple or pressure-rinse containers used to store crop-dusting chemicals. This procedure ensures there is no dangerous leftover residue. However, this rinse must be done soon after use so the leftover chemicals don't dry and become more difficult to remove. It's also the law in many places.

  4. Step 4

    Recycle the containers. Many states offer programs to help dispose of cleaned crop-dusting chemical containers through recycling. Information is generally available through the state agriculture department or local chemical dealer.

  5. Step 5

    Know the laws. Many states and cities have laws about the disposal of chemicals, and the United States Environmental Protection Agency enforces rules on hazardous waste.

  6. Step 6

    Find a Clean Sweep program. Many states have adopted it to help farmers and others dispose of crop-dusting and other agricultural chemicals. Some involve collection points, while a few states offer on site pick up. All but a small handful of states have some version of this program.

  7. Step 7

    Keep away from water. Crop-dusting chemicals must not be dumped, and if burial is the only option, it must be in an isolated location where there's no chance pesticides can seep into the water table. Make sure burial is legal in your area.

Tips & Warnings
  • Do not burn storage containers for crop-dusting chemicals. It can release dangerous fumes into the air.
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