“What should you do with old/partially used pesticides once a farmer retires or passes away?” This is a question regularly asked to the Agriculture and Natural Resources Agent in Breathitt County. It is estimated that 5 farmers/year retire or pass away in Breathitt County.

Keeping streams and waterways clean is always a priority at the Breathitt County Extension Office. With fear that aging pesticide containers could possibly leak or get poured into streams, Agent Reed Graham, in partnership with the Kentucky Department of Agriculture, provided a Pesticide Amnesty Program. This one-day drive amnesty program took place in the Breathitt County Extension Office parking lot, and was free to the public.

In order to follow all healthy at work guidelines, advertisements were made in the Extension monthly newsletter, local newspaper, local radio, and via telephone to let clients know all staff involved would be following proper social distancing and wearing masks. 

A total of 10 people participated in the program. A complete drum was filled with old/partially used/unlabeled containers of pesticide. One participant stated “I am very glad you offered the program. I was worried about my grandchildren accidentally getting in contact with these chemicals”.

Keeping streams and waterways clean is very important. Due to high participation the planning phase is already underway to offer this program again next year.