This bill establishes a voluntary farm pesticide collection and disposal program, directed by 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. To ensure accessibility, the DEP will strategically place collection sites across the state, offer at least two collection events per year at each site, and contract with qualified entities for safe collection and disposal. Local agents will be appointed to inventory the collected materials and report this information to the DEP.
Additionally, the Department of Agriculture will launch a public education campaign to inform farmers about the program, including the locations of collection sites, 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 necessary preparatory actions by the DEP and the Department of Agriculture.