Oklahoma Hosts Free Pesticide Disposal Events in November

Oklahoma State University’s Pesticide Safety Education Program and the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry will hold two Unwanted Pesticide Disposal Days for residents and agricultural operators in November. The first event is 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on November 12 at the Grant County Expo Center, 412 6th Street in Pond Creek. The second is 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on November 13 at the Custer County Fairgrounds, 1738 US 183 in Clinton. Farmers, ranchers, commercial and non commercial applicators, pesticide dealers and homeowners may bring up to 2,000 pounds of unwanted pesticides for proper disposal at no charge, with fees applying for quantities above that limit.

Organizers say the events are intended to reduce the risks that come from storing or improperly discarding pesticides. Unwanted pesticides generally include products that are surplus to needs, outdated, damaged or no longer labeled for safe use. The program emphasizes legal and safe handling. Leaking containers should be double bagged, and participants are asked to limit the number of bagged solids placed in vehicles during transport. Pesticide dealers planning to bring large quantities must pre register to ensure efficient processing. Burial, burning and other forms of illegal disposal are strictly prohibited.

For Texas County residents and agricultural businesses, the disposal days offer a practical way to manage chemical inventories without incurring removal costs or facing potential environmental liability. Proper disposal reduces the chance of contamination to groundwater and surface water, lowers the risk of livestock or wildlife exposure, and diminishes the likelihood of costly cleanup and regulatory enforcement on farms and ranches. Removing obsolete products also helps landowners avoid accidental exposures to family members or workers during the winter storage season.

The program provides additional guidance on safe transportation and container handling on its website, and organizers recommend reviewing those tips before arriving. For more information contact Charles Luper, OSU Extension associate who is coordinating event details. Media inquiries may be directed to Trisha Gedon, Senior Communications Specialist at Oklahoma State University Extension.

These disposal days are part of ongoing efforts by state and university partners to promote pesticide stewardship and reduce environmental risk across Oklahoma agriculture. Removing unneeded pesticides now can prevent future contamination incidents and support the long term sustainability of local farms and ranches.