US: Southwest Michigan pesticide collection date nears

Unusable pesticides and mercury can be taken for proper disposal at the upcoming southwest Michigan Clean Sweep event. Berrien, Cass and Van Buren farmers, greenhouse operators, golf courses, pesticide retailers, and individuals can safely dispose of unwanted pesticides for free on Wednesday, June 25, 2014, according to Jill Adams, Environmental Property Manager Berrien County Parks & Recreation Department. Pre-registration is required by June 11.

Accepted items are pesticides which including fungicides, herbicides, insecticides, and rodenticides. Mercury is also accepted at this event.

Accepted mercury items include thermometers, barometers, switches, mercury maze games, and elemental or liquid mercury. Mercury and mercury items must be properly contained and sealed to prevent spillage.

Empty pesticide container recycling or disposal cannot be accommodated. Fertilizers are not accepted as part of Clean Sweep unless they are a component of a pesticide formulation. Fluorescent light bulbs or lamps, and pharmaceuticals are not accepted through Clean Sweep.

The last southwest Michigan collection of the season will be held on July 30.

Registration forms may be obtained at www.berriencounty.org/recycle, or for pickup at Berrien, Cass, or Van Buren Michigan State University Extension and district soil and water conservation offices. For more information contact Jill Adams, at 269-983-7111 x8234.

The Clean Sweep Program is made possible by a grant from the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.

For a directory of other Clean Sweep coordinators and events in Michigan, visit the official website, call 517-241-3933, or email eatona@michigan.gov.