This bill establishes a farm pesticide collection and disposal program under the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), in consultation with the Department of Agriculture. The program aims to collect, transport, and dispose of unused pesticides and fertilizers containing pesticides, as well as recycle pesticide containers owned by commercial farms. Participation in the program is voluntary, and the DEP is tasked with strategically placing collection sites across the state, offering at least two collection events per year at each site, and overseeing qualified entities for the safe handling of these materials. Additionally, local agents will be appointed to inventory the collected items and report back to the DEP.
To promote awareness and participation in the program, the Department of Agriculture will conduct a public education campaign, informing farmers about collection site locations, accepted materials, and the environmental benefits of proper disposal and recycling. This information will be made available on the Department of Agriculture's website and updated as necessary. The bill is set to take effect 180 days after enactment, allowing for preparatory administrative actions to be taken in advance.